5 Tips For Car Keys Repairs
Modern car keys are complicated, and require professional repair when they fail. This article will offer 5 tips to keep your car key in good working order.
Often times, problems with key fobs or remote controls are simply resolved by replacing the battery. In some cases, reprogramming is required. Check the owner's manual or an expert for more specific instructions.
Battery Replacement
Many modern cars now feature remote key fobs, which include remote start and keyless entry features, as well as a traditional metal car key. These keys are powered by tiny batteries that eventually die and need to be replaced. Fortunately the process is easy and can be completed by any auto accessory shop that has the proper battery type for your car model.
Consult the owner's guide for your vehicle in order to determine the kind of battery is being used. Once you've got this information, go to your local automotive parts store and purchase the replacement. Oftentimes, mobile key repair can find the identical battery at a reduced price or even for free with the promotion.
If you take care to not push something, you can tear apart two of the seams using flat-head screws or your fingernail. Find the compartment for the battery. It'll be inserted or have a plus/minus sign embossed. Carefully insert the new battery and ensure it is aligned correctly with respect to the way the previous one was.
Once the new battery is installed Replace the circuit board and snap the two halves of your key fob together. Once it's all reassembled test the buttons to ensure everything works as intended. The key fob's identification is not affected by the change in the battery, which means it shouldn't be required to be reprogramed following the repair. This is a great benefit for drivers who are looking to save money and avoid costly trips to the dealership or a locksmith.
Ignition Cylinder Repair
Modern car key ignition systems require a series of precise actions before the engine can start. A broken key cylinder can stop your car from beginning. It is possible to replace the key cylinder, however it's not a simple process. The ignition system is delicately that is designed to work with a specific key, and the process requires specialized tools, precise oiling, and a thorough understanding of how it's supposed to function.
Find out if you can turn the ignition on in the accessory position. Also, check to determine if the key can fit correctly. This will help you diagnose the issue and provide a solution. If you can't get the cylinder rotating in any position then you must look up the owner's manual or call a locksmith professional to assist you with the ignition repair.
If the cylinder is able to rotate in the accessory position then you can make use of a screwdriver to press the small anti-rotation switch at the bottom of the cylinder. Then, you can turn the cylinder until its slot line and tab are up, and then slide it out of its casing. If the cylinder is stuck or doesn't move, you can gently tap it or drill it. However, do it with care when drilling or rapping the cylinder could damage the steering column.
When the old cylinder is gone and replaced, the new ignition cylinder can be installed in its place. Then, you'll need to program the new cylinder to ensure that it is compatible with the key in terms of sequence and orientation. You'll also need to remove the tumblers from the cylinder and inspect them. If any of the tumblers are worn out, you'll need to replace them.
After the cylinder is replaced After the cylinder is replaced, you'll have to attach the steering column and dashboard covers in their proper order. Attach the dashboard and steering column covers in the correct order. Be cautious not to damage the wiring. It's easy to disconnect or damage vital electronics. Reconnecting the negative battery cable is also crucial. Test your new ignition.
Key Programming
Modern car keys have an electronic chip that communicates with the vehicle. The chip and the vehicle must "know each other" before the key can be used to start the engine.
A locksmith with experience in many different types of cars can reprogram a new key quickly. They can also help you if the lock on the key to your car has been damaged.
The majority of car locksmiths will tell you that the process takes less than a minute when you follow the steps correctly. It can be a bit longer for OBD2 programming or EEPROM programming, as these procedures require a locksmith to remove specific modules from the car (security components) to identify the correct passcode and stored key data. This type of procedure is best left to experts with extensive knowledge of circuit boards as well as electronic components, reducing the risk of data corruption.
It's not common for people to misplace keys to their cars or leave them in the trunk of the vehicle, or simply leave them at home after putting groceries in the back seat. In these situations, you can often be stranded on the side of the road without any way to get home or get to your destination. Your locksmith can program a spare key for your vehicle so you can drive again.
The lock may be compromised or the key might stop working due to wear and tear. If the teeth of your car key do not fit in the lock as well, it is a good indication that you should replace the key.
Many people attempt to reprogram their own car keys, but it is always advised to hire professionals do this task for you instead. These DIY methods can corrupt the information on your car key which can cause it to malfunction, or even worse harm to your security system. A professional will have a less chance of making mistakes that cost you thousands in the future.
Broken Key Removal
When your car key breaks within the cylinder that controls the ignition and you need to remove the broken piece. You will not be able to drive your car until the key is removed and it's best to call an expert for this job because there is a possibility of damaging the ignition with the wrong use of lubricants and extraction tools. However, if you're determined to fix the broken car key at home first, there are some methods that can be used to assist.
Utilizing a pair of needle-nose pliers with extra-long tips can be a good method to grasp the end of the key that is still sticking out from the ignition. You can also enhance your pliers by coating their business ends with sticky substances such as super glue, wax that has been melted, or putty. The pliers will then be able to grab the piece of key and remove it from the cylinder.
A flexible, thin wire can be used to slide over the broken part of a key and then remove it from the lock. Paperclips are a good tool for this however, you must bend the ends slightly so that the key fragment is firmly held by the larger area.
Mini hacksaw blades are used to repair broken keys. However, they must be extremely thin and small to fit in the small openings in the cylinders for ignition. These tools are readily available in hardware stores as well as the auto parts section of a few big retailers.
Spraying a bit of lubricant into the key hole is also a good idea, as it may loosen the stuck piece of car key and make it easier to get it out. Don't try to force a damaged car key out, since this can cause more damage to the key, and even the ignition. A car key that's bent or broken in half could be a risky and difficult task to fix, so it's recommended to keep a spare car key in a safe place in all time.