5 Tips For Car Keys Repairs
Modern car keys are quite complicated, and as such they require expert assistance to fix them when something goes wrong. This article will provide 5 tips to ensure that your car key is in good shape.
In most cases, key fobs or remote controls can be repaired by simply replacing the battery. In other instances it is possible to reprogramme the device. Check the owner's manual or a professional for more specific instructions.
Battery Replacement
Many modern vehicles come with remote key fobs that include keyless entry and remote start features. They also include a traditional metal key. These keys are powered with small batteries which eventually run out and require replacement. The procedure is easy and can easily be done by any auto accessory store that has the correct battery type for the vehicle you own.
First, consult the owner's manual for your vehicle to determine what kind of battery is used in your key fob. Once you know the type of battery is inside your key fob, go to an auto parts store near you and buy an alternative. Oftentimes, you can find the same battery at a discount or even free if you take advantage of a special promotion.
Once you have the new battery in your possession you can simply open your key fob, then remove the circuit board by tearing away two seams with a flat-head screwdriver or your fingernail (if you're careful not to force any thing). Then you need to locate the battery compartment and it is likely to be easy to spot It will either be slotted in or have a plus or minus sign embossed on it. Then, carefully place the new battery, making sure it is oriented correctly based on the way the old one was.
Replace the circuit board once the battery is installed. Snap the two halves back together. Test the buttons after reassembling them to make sure everything works. car key repair of the key fob will not be affected when the battery is replaced therefore the key fob won't need to be reprogrammed after the repair. This is great news for drivers looking to save money by not having to go to a dealership or locksmith.
Ignition Cylinder Replacement
Modern key ignition systems for cars require a series of precise actions before the engine can begin. A damaged key cylinder could prevent your car from getting started. Although it's possible to repair the key cylinder, it's not a simple process. The ignition system is delicately designed to work with one particular key and requires specialized tools, precise lubrication, and a precise understanding of how it's supposed perform.
Check if you are able to switch the ignition to the accessory position. Also, see if the key will fit correctly. This will help you identify the problem and find a solution. If you're 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 is able to rotate in the accessory position it is possible to use a screwdriver for depressing the small anti-rotation button located at the base of the cylinder. You can then rotate the cylinder until its tabs for retaining and slots are aligned and slide it out. If the cylinder won't turn in any way, or is hopelessly stuck, you may be required to gently tap it with the hammer or drill it. Do this with caution as drilling or rapping can harm the steering wheel.
The new ignition cylinder will be installed once the old one is removed. Then, you'll have to code the new cylinder in order that it is compatible with the key in terms of sequence and orientation. Also, you'll need to remove the tumblers from the cylinder, and inspect them. It is also necessary to replace any worn-out tumblers.
After replacing the cylinder you will need to attach the steering wheel and dashboard covers in the proper order. Attach the dashboard and steering column covers in the correct order. Be careful not to disturb the wiring. It's easy to disconnect or damage vital electronics. Reconnecting the negative battery cable is also important. Test your new ignition.
Key Programming
Modern car keys include an electronic chip that communicates with the vehicle. The chip and the car must "know each other" before the key can be used to start the engine.
A locksmith with experience in various types of vehicles can reprogram a new key in a short time. They can also assist you when your car's key lock has become damaged.
The majority of car locksmiths will tell you that the process takes just a few minutes in the event that you follow all steps properly. It could take longer for OBD2 programming or EEPROM programming, as these methods require your locksmith to take specific modules out of the car (security components) to identify the correct passcode and stored key data. This kind of procedure should be left to experts with extensive knowledge of circuit boards and electronic components, thus reducing the risk of data corruption.
It's not common for people to lose keys to their cars, leave them in the trunk of the vehicle or even forget them after putting groceries into the back of the car. In these situations you'll often find yourself stranded on the side of the road without 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 can be compromised or the key might stop working due to normal wear and wear and tear. If the teeth on your car key no longer fit in the lock, you should consider replacing the key.
Many people try to reprogram their car keys themselves. However, it's advised to hire a professional instead. It's not uncommon for DIY methods to alter the data on your keys and cause it to fail, or worse, damage your security system. A professional is more likely to not make a mistakes that could cost you thousands of dollars in the future.
Broken Key Removal
You'll need to remove the broken key from the cylinder of ignition if it fails to function. You won't be able to drive your car until the key is removed and it is advised to call an expert for this task, as there is a risk of causing damage to the ignition by incorrect use of lubricants or extraction tools. If you're determined to try and repair your car key that is broken at home there are a few methods that can assist.
Using a pair of needle-nose pliers with longer tips can be a good method to grasp the end of the key which is still sticking out from the ignition. You can also supercharge your pliers by coating their business ends in a sticky substance like super glue, melted wax or putty. After this is done, the pliers will be able to latch onto the key fragment and pull it out of the cylinder.
A thin, stiff wire could be a good tool for sliding alongside an old car key, and pulling it out of the lock. You can use a paperclip to accomplish this purpose, but make sure to bend the ends to increase the surface area that can be used to hold the key fragment.
Mini hacksaw blades are an excellent tool for fixing broken keys, but they must be extremely small and thin so that they can fit into the tiny opening in an ignition cylinder. These tools can be purchased in hardware stores and the auto parts sections of some big box retailers.
Spraying a bit of lubricant into the key hole can also be a good idea, since it can loosen the car key and make it easier to remove. It's not a good idea to attempt to force out a damaged key, since it could cause further damage to the ignition or the key. A car key that's bent or snapped in half can be a risky and difficult task to fix, so it's a good idea to keep a spare key for your car in a secure place in all times.