5 Tips For Car Keys Repairs
Modern car keys are complicated, and as such they require expert assistance to repair them if something goes wrong. This article will provide five tips to keep your car key in good condition.
Sometimes, issues with key fobs and remote controls are simply resolved by replacing the battery. In other instances, reprogramming may be necessary. Consult your owner’s manual or a professional for more specific instructions.
Battery Replacement
A lot of modern cars have remote key fobs, which include keyless entry and remote start features. They also come with a traditional metal key. They are powered by small batteries that eventually deplete and require replacement. Fortunately this process is easy and can be completed by any local auto accessory shop that has the appropriate battery type for your vehicle model.
The first step is to consult the owner's manual of your vehicle to discover the type of battery used in your key fob. Once you know the type of battery is on your key fob, go to an auto parts store close to you and buy an alternative. In most cases, you can get the same battery for sale or even free with an offer.
Once you have the new battery, simply open your key fob and remove the circuit board by pulling away two seams with a flat-head screwdriver or your fingernail (if you are careful not to press any thing). Find the battery compartment. It will either be slotted in or have a plus/minus sign embossed. Make sure to carefully insert the new battery into place and make sure it's aligned correctly with respect to the way the old one was.
Replace the circuit board after the battery is installed. Snap the two halves back together. Test the buttons after reassembling them to verify that everything is working. The ID of the key fob won't change in the event that the battery is changed and the key fob should not require reprogramming after the repair. This is a huge benefit for drivers who are looking to save money and avoid costly trips to the dealer or a locksmith.
Repairing the ignition Cylinder
Modern car key ignition systems are complicated and require a precise series of actions before the engine starts. If something disrupts the process, such as a broken key cylinder or a damaged key cylinder, it could cause your car to start with no power. Although it's possible to repair the key cylinder however, it's not an easy procedure. The ignition is a delicate system that is designed to work with a specific key and requires specialized tools, careful lubrication, and an exact understanding of how it's supposed to function.
First, determine if the ignition will turn in the accessory position and whether the key is properly inserted. This will allow you to identify the issue and determine an answer. If you are unable to get the cylinder rotating in any direction then you must check the owner's manual, or consult a professional locksmith to assist with the ignition repair.
If the cylinder will rotate in the accessory position then you can make use of a screwdriver to press the small anti-rotation button located at the bottom of the cylinder. Then, rotate the cylinder until its tabs and slots line up and then slide it out. If the cylinder doesn't move at all, or is stuck in a rut, you might have to tap it with an hammer or drill. However, do it with caution when drilling or rapping the cylinder can damage the steering column.
After the old cylinder has been taken out and the new ignition cylinder can be installed in its place. The next step is to program the cylinder to ensure that it matches the key both in terms of sequence and orientation. You will also need to remove and inspect the tumblers. If any of the tumblers are worn out, you'll need to replace them.
After replacing the cylinder you'll need to attach the dashboard and steering wheel covers in the correct order. Be sure to carefully reattach the covers without affecting the wiring, as it's possible to lose the connection and damage important electronics. Reconnecting the negative battery cable is crucial. Test your new ignition.
Key Programming
Modern car keys contain an electronic chip that communicates with the vehicle. To allow the key to start the engine, the chip and the car have to "know each the other".
A locksmith who is experienced in a wide range of vehicles can reprogram your new car key quickly. They can also assist when your car's key lock has become damaged.
The majority of car locksmiths will tell you that the process can take just one minute if the steps are followed correctly. car keys repair could take longer for OBD2 programming or EEPROM programming, as these methods require your locksmith to extract specific modules out of the car (security components) to identify the correct passcode and key data stored. This kind of procedure is best left to professionals with extensive knowledge of circuit boards and electronic components, which reduces the chance of data corruption.
It's not common for people to lose keys to their cars or put them in the trunk of the vehicle or even forget them at home after putting groceries in the back seat. In these scenarios, you can often be stranded on the side of the road without any way to get home or to your destination. Locksmiths can program a spare key for your vehicle, allowing you to drive around again.
Car keys can fail to function for a variety reasons, such as normal wear and tear or if the lock is compromised. If the teeth of your car key no longer fit inside the lock, you should think about replacing your key.
A lot of people try to reprogramme their own car keys, but it is always advised to hire an expert do the work for instead. These DIY methods can corrupt the information on your car keys which can cause it to malfunction or worse damage to your security system. A professional is more likely to not make a an error that could cost you thousands of dollars in the future.
Broken Key Removal
You'll have to remove your broken key from the ignition cylinder in case it fails to function. It isn't possible to drive the vehicle until the broken key is removed. It is best to employ a professional complete this task, as improper use of lubricants and extraction tools could damage the ignition. If you're looking to fix your car keys that have broken at home, there are a few methods that can help.
A pair of needle-nosed pliers that have extra-long tips can be used to grasp the key's end that's sticking out of the ignition. You can also improve the pliers by securing the business end of them with an adhesive substance like super glue, melted tallow, or putty. The pliers can then grasp the piece of key and remove it from the cylinder.
A fine, stiff wire can be a useful tool to slide along a broken car key and pulling it out of the lock. Paperclips can be used for this however, you must bend the ends in a way to ensure that the key is held by the wider surface.
Mini hacksaw blades are used to repair damaged keys. However, they must be extremely thin and compact to fit inside the small openings in the cylinders for ignition. These tools are available at hardware stores or in the auto parts sections of some big box retailers.
Spraying lubricant into the keyhole could be beneficial. It can loosen the stuck piece and make it easier to take it out. Don't try to force a broken car key out, as this can cause more damage to the key, and even the ignition. It is risky and difficult to fix a car key that has been bent or broken in half. Keep an extra key in a safe location always.