5 Tips For Car Keys Repairs
Modern car keys are complicated, and require professional repair when they fail. This article will provide 5 tips to ensure your car keys are in good working order.
In many cases, key fobs or remote controls can be fixed by replacing the battery. In some cases there is a need to reprogramme. Check the owner's manual or a professional for more specific instructions.
Battery Replacement
A lot of modern cars have remote key fobs. These include keyless entry and remote starting features. They also have a traditional steel key. These keys are powered by small batteries that eventually die and must be replaced. The process is simple and can be accomplished by any auto accessory store that stocks the correct type of battery for the vehicle you own.
Check the owner's manual for your vehicle to determine what kind of battery is in use. Once you know the type of battery is on your key fob, head to an auto parts store near you to purchase the replacement. Sometimes, you can find the identical battery at a reduced price or even free with an offer.
Once you have the new battery in hand, simply open your key fob and remove the circuit board by pulling away two seams using a screwdriver with a flat head or your fingernail (if you are careful not to push anything). Find the battery compartment. It will either be inserted, or have a plus/minus sign embossed. Install the new battery with care, making sure that it is in the same way as the previous one.
Replace the circuit board after the battery is installed. Snap the two halves back together. After it's reassembled, test out the buttons to ensure that everything works as intended. The identification of the key fob won't be affected when the battery is replaced and the key fob shouldn't require reprogramming after the repair. This is a great benefit for those who want to save money and avoid costly trips to the dealer or a locksmith.
Ignition Cylinder Replacement
Modern car key ignition systems require an exact sequence of movements before the engine can start. A broken key cylinder can stop your car from beginning. Although car key fob repairs is possible to replace a key cylinder, it's not a simple procedure. The ignition is a delicate device designed to work with one specific key and requires special tools, careful lubrication, and a precise understanding of how it's supposed function.
Find out if you can turn the ignition in the accessory position. Also, verify that the key will fit correctly. This will allow you to identify the issue and determine a solution. If you're unable to get the cylinder to rotate in any position it is recommended to look up the owner's manual or call a locksmith professional to help with the ignition repair.
If the cylinder rotates in the accessory position then you can use a screwdriver to depress the small anti-rotation switch at the base of the cylinder. Then, you can rotate the cylinder so that its tabs for retaining and slots are aligned and slide it out. If the cylinder is stuck or refuses to rotate, you can tap it or drill it. But only do so cautiously, as drilling or rapping the cylinder could cause damage to the steering column.
The new ignition engine will be installed after the old one is removed. The next step is to code the cylinder in a way that it is in line 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 replacing the cylinder, you'll need to attach the steering wheel and dashboard covers in the correct order. Be sure to carefully reattach the panels without damaging the wiring, as it's very easy to loosen the wires and cause disruption to vital electronic components. Reconnecting the negative battery cable is also crucial. Test your new ignition.
Key Programming
Modern car keys come with an electronic chip that communicates with the vehicle. In order for the key to start the engine, the chip and the car have to "know each the other".
A locksmith with experience in various types of vehicles can reprogram a new key in a short time. They can also help you if the lock on the car key has been damaged.
Many car locksmiths will inform you that the process can take as little as one minute if the steps are taken in the right order. OBD2 or EEPROM programming can take a little longer, as your locksmith will need to remove certain modules from the car to read the passcode and key information. These types of procedures should be left to professionals with in-depth knowledge of electronic circuits and circuit boards and can reduce the risk of corrupting data.
It's not uncommon for people to lose their keys to their car or leave them in the trunk of their vehicle or even leave them at home after loading groceries into the back of the car. In these situations it's not uncommon for you to find yourself stranded by the side of the highway without a way to get to your home or where you want to go. If you have a spare car, your locksmith can program it to your car so you can return to your car.
The lock may be compromised or the key may cease to function due to normal wear and wear and tear. If the teeth of your car key do not fit into the lock, you should consider replacing your key.
Many people try to program their own car keys. However, it's advised to employ a professional instead. It's not uncommon for DIY methods to alter the data on your keys and cause it to fail, or more serious, damage your security system. A professional will have a lower risk of making a mistake that could cost you thousands in the future.
Broken Key Removal
When your car key breaks inside of the ignition cylinder and you need to remove the broken piece. You will not be able to drive your car until the key is removed, and it is recommended to contact an expert for this task since there is a chance of damaging the ignition with improper use of lubricants or extraction tools. If you're determined to try and fix the broken car key at home first, there are some methods that can aid.
Utilizing a pair or needle-nose pliers with extra-long tips is a great method to grasp the end of the key that's still protruding from the ignition. You can also supercharge your pliers by coating their business ends in an adhesive substance such as super glue, melted wax, or putty. The pliers will then be able to grab the piece of key and pull it out of the cylinder.
A thin, stiff wire can be a good tool to slide along the broken car key and pulling it out of the lock. Paperclips can be used for this however, bend the ends slightly to ensure that the key is gripped by the larger area.
Mini hacksaw blades can be used to repair damaged keys. But, they must be very small and thin to fit into the tiny openings of the ignition cylinders. These tools can be purchased at hardware stores or in the auto parts sections of some large box retailers.
Spraying a little grease into the hole of the key can also be a good idea, since it can loosen the stuck car key and make it easier to remove. Do not attempt to force a damaged car key out as it could cause more damage to the key and possibly the ignition. A car key that's bent or snapped in half can be a risky and difficult task to repair, which is why it's a good idea keep a spare car key in a secure place in all time.