5 Tips For Car Keys Repairs
Modern car keys are complicated, and as such they require professional services to fix them when something goes wrong. This article will provide 5 tips to keep your car key in good condition.
Sometimes, issues with key fobs or remote controls can be resolved by replacing the battery. In some cases it is necessary to reprogramme the device. Consult your owner's manual for specific instructions or seek professional assistance.
Battery Replacement
Many modern cars come with remote key fobs. These include keyless entry and remote start features. They also come with a traditional metal key. They are powered by small batteries which eventually run out and require replacement. The procedure is easy and can be accomplished by any auto accessory store that has the correct battery type for the vehicle you own.
Refer to the owner's manual of your vehicle in order to determine the kind of battery is in use. Once you have this information, head to your local auto parts store and purchase the replacement. Oftentimes, you can find the same battery for sale or even free if you take advantage of an offer.
If you're careful to not push any thing, you can pull apart two of the seams using a flat-head screws or your fingernail. Locate the battery compartment. It'll be slotted in or have a plus/minus symbol embossed. Carefully insert the new battery, making sure it is oriented correctly based on the way the old one was.
After the new battery is installed replace the circuit board and then snap the two halves of your key fob together. Once it is reassembled, test out the buttons to ensure everything is working as intended. The key fob's identification will not be affected by the change in the battery, so it shouldn't need to be reprogramed after the repair. This is a good thing for those who want to save money by avoiding costly trips to a locksmith or dealership.
Ignition Cylinder Replacement
Modern key ignition systems for cars are complicated and require a precise series of movements prior to the engine starting. If something interrupts that process, such as a broken key cylinder, it can cause your vehicle to stop running with no power. Although it is possible to replace the key cylinder but it's not an easy process. The ignition is a delicate system designed to work with one specific key and requires specialized tools, careful lubrication, and an exact understanding of how it's supposed to function.
First, check if the ignition will turn in the accessory position and if the key will insert properly. This will help you diagnose the problem and find a solution. If repair car key are unable to rotate the cylinder in any direction, check the owner's manual or call a locksmith for help with the ignition.
If the cylinder will rotate in the accessory position, you can use a screwdriver to depress the small anti-rotation button located at the bottom of the cylinder. Then, you can turn the cylinder around until its retaining tabs and slots line up and then slide it out. If the cylinder isn't turning at all, or is stuck in a dead end, you may need to gently tap it with a hammer or drill it. But only do so with care because drilling or rapping the cylinder may harm the steering column.
The new ignition engine will be installed after the old one is removed. You'll then need to code the cylinder to ensure 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 inspect them. You'll also have to replace any tumblers that are worn out.
When the cylinder is replaced, you'll need to attach the dashboard and steering column covers in their proper order. Make sure to attach the panels without disturbing the wiring, as it's possible to lose the connection and damage important electronics. Reattaching the negative battery cable is crucial. Test your new ignition.
Key Programming
Modern car keys are equipped with an electronic chip that communicates with the vehicle. The chip and the vehicle must "know each other" before the key is able to start the engine.
A locksmith who has experience in a wide range of cars can reprogram your new car key quickly. They can also help if the lock on the car key has been damaged.
The majority of car locksmiths will tell you that the process could be as quick as one minute if all 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 vehicle to read the passcode and key data. Learn Alot more of procedure should be left to experts with extensive knowledge of circuit boards as well as electronic components, reducing the chance of data corruption.
It's not common for people to lose keys to their cars, leave them in the trunk of the car or forget them after loading groceries into the back of the car. In these instances you'll often end up on the side of the road, without any way to get home or get to your destination. If you have a spare car, your locksmith can program it into your car so you can return to your car.
Car keys can fail to function for a variety of reasons, including normal wear and tear or even when the lock is damaged. If the teeth on your car key aren't fitting the lock as well it is an indication to replace your key.
Many people attempt to reprogram their car keys themselves but it is advised to hire a professional do this work for you instead. It's not uncommon for DIY methods to alter the data on your keys, which can cause it to fail, or even cause damage to 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
If your car key is broken inside of the ignition cylinder, you will need to remove the broken piece. You won't be able to drive your car until the key is removed and it is recommended to contact a professional for this task because there is a possibility of damaging the ignition through incorrect use of lubricants or extraction tools. However, if you're determined to repair your car key that is broken at home, there are some methods that can be used to help.
Utilizing a pair or needle-nose pliers that have extra-long tips is 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, melted wax or putty. The pliers then can grasp the piece of key and pull it out of the cylinder.
A flexible, thin wire can be used to slide over the broken part of a key and pull it out of the lock. Paperclips can be used for this, but bend the ends a bit so that the fragment of the key is firmly held by the wider surface.
Mini hacksaw blades are used to repair damaged keys. But, they must be extremely thin and small to fit inside the small openings in the cylinders for ignition. They can be found in hardware stores and the auto parts sections of some large box retailers.
Spraying a small amount of grease into the hole of the key could be a great idea, as it may loosen the car key and make it easier to take it out. Do not attempt 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 could be a dangerous and difficult project to fix, so it's a good idea keep a spare car key in a safe place in all at all times.