5 Tips For Car Keys Repairs
Modern car keys can be very complex and require professional repair services when they become damaged. This article will give you five tips to ensure that your car key is in good working order.
In many instances, key fobs and remote controls can be repaired by replacing the battery. In some cases there is a need to reprogramme. Consult your owner's manual for specific instructions or seek assistance from a professional.
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 small batteries that eventually run out and must be replaced. Fortunately this process is easy and can be completed by any auto accessory shop that stocks the appropriate battery type for your vehicle model.
First, consult the owner's manual of your vehicle to determine the type of battery used in your key fob. Once you know what type of battery is in your key fob, head to an auto parts store close to you and buy the replacement. It is common to find the same battery on sale or even for free when you avail a special offer.
Once you have the new battery in hand and you've opened your key fob and remove the circuit board by tearing off two seams using a screwdriver with a flat head or your fingernail (if you're careful not press anything). Find the compartment for the battery. It'll either be inserted or have a plus/minus symbol embossed. Carefully insert the new battery into place and make sure it's oriented correctly based on the way the previous one was.
After the new battery is installed, replace the circuit board and snap the two halves of your key fob together. Test the buttons after reassembling to make sure everything works. The key's ID 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 great news for drivers who are looking to save money and avoid costly trips to the dealer or a locksmith.
Ignition Cylinder Repair
Modern car key ignition systems require a series of precise actions before the engine can start. If something interrupts that process, for instance an unrepaired key cylinder or a damaged key cylinder, it could cause your car to not start without power. It is possible to replace the key cylinder but it's not an easy process. The ignition system is delicately designed to work with a specific key, and the process requires special tools, careful lubrication, and a precise understanding of how it's supposed perform.
Find out if you can turn the ignition in the accessory position. Also, check to see if the key will fit properly. This will help you identify the problem. If you're unable to turn the cylinder in any direction, check the owner's manual or call an locksmith for assistance with the ignition.
If the cylinder is able to rotate in the accessory position then you can use a screwdriver to depress the small anti-rotation switch at the bottom of the cylinder. Then, you can rotate the cylinder until its slot line and tab are up, and slide it out of its casing. If key repair isn't turning at all, or it's stuck in a dead end, you may need to gently tap it with a hammer or drill it. But do so cautiously when drilling or rapping the cylinder could damage the steering column.
The new ignition engine will be installed after the old one is removed. The next step is to program the cylinder in a way that it is in line with the key both in terms of sequence and orientation. Also, you'll need to remove the tumblers from the cylinder and examine them. If any tumblers are damaged, you'll have to replace them.
After replacing the cylinder you'll need to attach the steering wheel and dashboard covers in the proper order. Reattach the dashboard and column covers in the correct order. Be careful not to disturb the wiring. It's easy to accidentally disconnect or disrupt important electronic components. It's also essential to reconnect the negative battery cable, and to test your new ignition.
Key Programming
Modern car keys include computer chips that communicate with the vehicle. In order for the key to start the engine the chip and car need to "know each one another".
A locksmith who is experienced in a variety of vehicles can reprogram your new car key quickly. They can also assist if the lock on your car key has been damaged.
Many car locksmiths will inform you that the process could take as little as one minute if all steps are done correctly. OBD2 or EEPROM programming may take a bit longer since your locksmith will need to remove specific modules from the car to access the passcode and key data. This kind of procedure should be left to professionals with a thorough knowledge of circuit boards as well as electronic components, reducing the chance of data corruption.
People often forget their car keys when they get home, or leave keys in the trunk of their car after loading groceries into the back seat. In these instances you'll often end up on the side of the road with any way to get home or to your destination. Locksmiths can program a spare key to your vehicle to allow you to drive again.
Car keys may stop working for a variety of reasons, such as normal wear and tear, or if the lock is compromised. If your car key's teeth no longer fit the lock as well it is an indication to replace your key.
Many people attempt to program their car keys themselves. However, it's recommended that you employ a professional instead. It's not uncommon for DIY methods to alter the data on your keys and cause it to fail, or worse end up damaging your security system. A professional will have a less chance of making a mistake that could cost you thousands in the future.
Broken Key Removal
When your car key breaks inside the cylinder of ignition, you will need to remove the broken piece. It will be impossible to drive your vehicle until the key is removed, and it's best to call an expert for this task, as there is a risk of damaging the ignition with incorrect use of lubricants or extraction tools. However, if you're determined to try and fix the broken car key at home first, there are some methods that can assist.
A pair of needle-nosed pliers with longer tips can be used to grasp the key end that is still sticking out of the ignition. You can also supercharge your pliers by coating their business ends in a sticky substance like super glue, wax that has been melted, or putty. The pliers will then be able to grasp the piece of key and pull it out of the cylinder.
A thin, rigid wire can be used to slide over the broken part of a key and then remove it from the lock. You can use a paperclip for this purpose, but make sure to bend the ends to increase the amount of surface that can be used to hold the key fragment.
Mini hacksaw blades are used to repair damaged keys. They should be thin and small to fit in the small openings of ignition cylinders. They can be found at hardware stores as well as the auto parts section of large box retailers.
Spraying a small amount of oil into the key hole could be a great idea, as it may loosen the stuck piece of car key and make it easier to remove. Never try to force a broken car key out, as this can cause more damage to the key and the ignition. A car key that is bent or broken in half can be a dangerous and challenging project to fix, so it's a good idea to keep a spare key for your car in a secure location at all at all times.