13 Things You Should Know About Car Keys Repair That You Might Not Have Considered
5 Tips For Car Keys Repairs
Modern car keys are quite complicated, and as such they require professional services to repair them if something goes wrong. This article will cover 5 tips for keeping your car keys in good condition.
In many cases, key fobs or remote controls can be fixed by simply replacing the battery. In other instances it is possible to reprogramme the device. Consult your owner's manual for specific instructions or seek out professional assistance.
Battery Replacement
A lot of modern cars have remote key fobs that incorporate keyless entry and remote start features, in addition to the traditional car key made of metal. They are powered by small batteries that eventually run out and must be replaced. Fortunately the process is easy and can be completed by any auto accessory shop that has the correct type of battery for the car model you have.
First, consult the owner's manual for your vehicle to find out the type of battery used in your key fob. Once you know the type of battery is on your key fob, head to an auto parts store close to you and buy a replacement. You can often find the same battery for sale or for free in the event of a special offer.
If you take care to not force something, you can tear apart two of the seams with a flat-head screw or your fingernail. Locate the battery compartment. It will either be inserted or have a plus/minus symbol embossed. Place the new battery in carefully and ensure that it is in the same way as your old one.
Replace the circuit board once the battery is installed. Snap the two halves back together. After it's reassembled, test the buttons to make sure everything works as intended. The identification of the key fob won't change if the battery is changed, so the key fob won't need to be reprogrammed after the repair. This is good news for those who want to save money by avoiding costly trips to a locksmith or dealer.
Ignition Cylinder Replacement
Modern car key ignition systems are complex and require a precise sequence of actions before the engine starts. A broken key cylinder can stop your car from beginning. It is possible to replace the key cylinder, however it is not an easy process. The ignition is a delicate device that is designed to work with a specific key, and the process requires specialized tools, careful lubrication, and a precise understanding of how it's supposed perform.
The first step is to determine if the ignition will turn in the accessory position and if the key is properly inserted. This will allow you to identify the issue and provide an answer. If you're unable to get the cylinder to turn in any position then you must check the owner's manual, or consult a professional locksmith to assist you with the ignition repair.
If the cylinder is rotating in the accessory position you can use a screwdriver to push the small anti-rotation switch at the base of cylinder. You can then rotate the cylinder until its retaining tab and slot line up, and slide it out of its casing. If the cylinder is stuck or won't turn, you can gently tap it or drill it. However, do it with care because drilling or rapping the cylinder may harm the steering column.
After the old cylinder has been taken out and the new ignition cylinder will be installed in its place. The next step is to code the cylinder so that it is compatible with the key both in terms of sequence and orientation. It is also necessary to take out and examine the tumblers. You'll also need to replace any tumblers that have worn out.
After replacing the cylinder you'll need to connect the steering wheel and dashboard covers in the proper order. Be sure to carefully reattach the covers without affecting the wiring, as it's easy to lose the connection and damage vital electronics. Reconnecting the negative battery cable is also crucial. Test your new ignition.
Key Programming
Modern car keys contain a computer chip which communicates with the vehicle. The chip and the car must "know eachother" before the key can start the engine.
A locksmith who has experience with many different types of cars can reprogram a key in a short time. They can also help if the lock on your car key has been damaged.
Many car locksmiths will claim that the process takes just a few minutes in the event that you follow all steps correctly. OBD2 or EEPROM programming can take a bit longer because your locksmith will have to remove certain modules from the car to read the passcode and key information. These kinds of procedures should be left to professionals with extensive knowledge of circuit boards and electronics, reducing the risk of data corruption.
It's not common for people to misplace keys to their cars, leave them in the trunk of the car or even forget them after putting groceries in the back of the vehicle. In these situations you'll often end up on the side of the road with any way to get home or to your destination. If you have a spare, your locksmith can program it to your car, allowing you to leave the road again.
The lock may be compromised or the key could cease to function due to normal wear and tear. If your car key's teeth aren't fitting the lock as well, it is a good reason to replace the key.
A lot of people try to reprogram their own car keys however it is advised to hire an expert do the work for you instead. It's not uncommon for DIY methods to corrupt the data on your keys, which can cause it to fail, or worse end up damaging your security system. A professional is more likely to not make a a mistake which could cost you thousands of dollars in the future.
Broken Key Removal
You'll need to remove your broken key from the ignition cylinder in case it breaks. It is not possible to drive the vehicle until the damaged key is removed. It is recommended to employ a professional do this job, as incorrect use of lubricants and extraction tools can damage the ignition. However, if you're determined to repair your car key that is broken at home first, there are some methods that could help.
Using a pair of needle-nose pliers with extra-long tips is a great method to grasp the end of the key which is still protruding from the ignition. You can also enhance your pliers by coating their business ends with an adhesive substance such as super glue, wax that has been melted, or putty. The pliers then can grasp the piece of key and pull it out of the cylinder.
A thin, rigid wire can be used to slide along the broken part of a key and then pull it out of the lock. You can use a paperclip to accomplish this purpose, but be sure to bend each end slightly to increase the amount of surface that is able to grip the key fragment.
Mini hacksaw blades can be a helpful tool for fixing broken keys, however they must be extremely small and thin so that they can fit into the tiny opening of an ignition cylinder. These tools are readily available in hardware stores, as well as the auto parts section of some major retailers.
Spraying a bit of lubricant into the key hole is also a good idea, as it may loosen the car key and make it easier to remove. Do not attempt to force a damaged car key out as this could cause further damage to the key and the ignition. It is dangerous and difficult to repair the car key that has been bent or split in half. Keep car key fob repairs near me in a safe location always.