5 Tips For Car Keys Repairs
Modern car keys can be quite complex, and require professional repair services when they become damaged. This article will cover five tips to keep your car key in top condition.
In most instances, key fobs and remote controls can be fixed by simply replacing the battery. In some cases, reprogramming is required. Check your owner's manual for specific instructions or seek professional assistance.
Battery Replacement
A lot of modern cars have remote key fobs, which include keyless entry and remote start features, as well as the traditional car key made of metal. These keys are powered with small batteries that eventually run out and need to be replaced. Fortunately, the process is quite easy and can be completed by any local auto accessory shop that stocks the proper battery type for your car model.
Check the owner's manual for your vehicle to determine what kind of battery is in use. Once you know what type of battery is on your key fob, go to an auto parts store near you and buy a replacement. Oftentimes, you can find the identical battery at a reduced price or even free if you take advantage of an offer.
Once you have the new battery in your possession and you've opened your key fob and take out the circuit board by pulling away two seams with a flat-head screwdriver or your fingernail (if you are careful not to push any thing). Find the battery compartment. It'll either be inserted, or have a plus/minus mark embossed. Make sure to carefully insert the new battery into place and ensure it is properly positioned based on the way the previous one was.
Replace the circuit board after the battery is installed. Take the two halves back together. Once it is reassembled, test the buttons to ensure that everything is working as intended. The key fob's ID 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 those who want to save money and avoid costly trips to the dealer or locksmith.
Ignition Cylinder Replacement
Modern car key ignition systems are complicated and require a precise series of actions before the engine can start. A damaged key cylinder could cause your car to stop getting started. Although it's possible to repair the key cylinder but it's not an easy process. The ignition is an intricate, one-key system. It requires special tools and a careful lubrication.
Check if you are able to turn the ignition on in the accessory position. Also, verify that the key will fit correctly. This will help you identify the problem. If you're unable to turn the cylinder in any direction, refer to the owner's manual or call locksmiths for assistance with the ignition.
If the cylinder will rotate in the accessory position, you can use a screwdriver for depressing the small anti-rotation switch at the bottom of the cylinder. You can then rotate the cylinder until its retaining tab and slot line up, and then slide it out of its casing. If the cylinder doesn't move at all, or is hopelessly stuck, you may need to gently tap it with an hammer or drill. But only do so with caution when drilling or rapping the cylinder could damage the steering column.
Once the old cylinder is out, the new ignition cylinder will be installed in its place. You'll then need to code the cylinder in a way that it is compatible with the key in terms of sequence, and orientation. Also, you'll need to remove the tumblers from cylinder and inspect them. It is also necessary to replace any tumblers that have worn out.
After replacing the cylinder after which you'll need to connect the steering column and dashboard covers in their proper order. Attach the dashboard and steering column covers in the correct order. Be careful not to disrupt the wiring. It's easy to disconnect or damage crucial electronics. It's also important to reattach the negative battery cable and test your new ignition.
Key Programming
Modern car keys have computer chips that communicate with the vehicle. In order for the key to start the engine the chip and car need to "know each other".
A locksmith with experience in a wide range of cars can reprogram your new key to your car 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 may take as little as one minute if all steps are taken in the right order. It could take longer for OBD2 programming or EEPROM programming, as these procedures require your locksmith to extract specific modules out of the car (security components) in order to read the correct passcode and stored key data. This kind of procedure should be left to professionals with extensive knowledge of circuit boards as well as electronic components, which reduces the risk of data corruption.
It's not common for people to lose their car keys, leave them in the trunk of the car or even forget them at home after loading groceries into the back of the car. In these instances, it's not uncommon to be stuck at the side of the road without a way to get to your home or where you want to go. If you have a spare, your locksmith can program it into your car to allow you to return to your car.
Car keys can fail to function for a variety reasons, including normal wear and tear, or if the lock is compromised. If broken key repair fit the lock, it is a good indication to replace your key.
Many people attempt to reprogram their own car keys, but it is always recommended to have a professional do this work for instead. It is not uncommon for DIY methods to corrupt 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 mistakes that cost you thousands in the future.
Broken Key Removal
You will need to remove your broken key from the ignition cylinder if it fails to function. It will be impossible to drive your car until the key is removed, and it is advised to call an expert for this task, as there is a possibility of damaging the ignition through the wrong use of lubricants and extraction tools. If you're determined to repair your car key that is broken at home, there are some methods that can aid.
A pair of needle-nosed pliers that have extra long tips can be used to grasp the key end that is still stuck in the ignition. You can also improve the pliers by securing the business end of them with some kind of sticky substance, such as super glue, melted tallow or putty. When this is done, the people will be able to hold onto the key fragment and pull it out of the cylinder.
A thin, rigid wire can be used to slide across a broken key and then pull it out of the lock. Paperclips can be used to accomplish this, but bend the ends slightly so that the fragment of the key is gripped by the larger area.
Mini hacksaw blades are used to repair broken keys. But, they must be very small and thin to fit into the tiny openings of the ignition cylinders. They are available at hardware stores as well as the auto parts section of a few large retailers.
Spraying a bit of lubricant into the key hole can also be a good idea, as it may loosen the stuck car key and make it easier to get it out. Do not attempt to force a broken car key out, since this can cause more damage to the key and the ignition. It is risky and difficult to fix a car key that is bent or split in half. Keep the spare key in a safe location at all times.