5 Tips For Car Keys Repairs
Modern car keys can be quite complex, and require professional repair when they break. This article will discuss five tips to keep your car keys in good condition.
Often times, problems with key fobs or remote controls are simply resolved by replacing the battery. In some cases there is a need to reprogramme. Check your owner's manual for specific instructions or seek assistance from a professional.
Battery Replacement
Modern cars are equipped with remote key fobs that incorporate keyless entry and remote start features, as well as the traditional car key made of metal. They are powered by tiny batteries that eventually deplete and must be replaced. The process is simple and can be completed by any auto accessory store that stocks the correct battery type for the vehicle you own.
Consult the owner's guide for your vehicle in order to determine what kind of battery is in use. Once you know this information, go to your local auto parts store and purchase an alternative. In most cases, you can get the same battery at a discount or even free with a special promotion.
Once you have the new battery in hand you can simply open your key fob and take out the circuit board by tearing off two seams with a flat-head screwdriver or your fingernail (if you are careful not to push any thing). Locate the battery compartment. It'll be inserted or have a plus/minus mark embossed. Carefully insert the new battery, making sure it is aligned correctly with respect to the way the previous one was.
Replace the circuit board once the battery is installed. Snap the two halves back together. Once it's all reassembled test out the buttons to make sure everything is working as intended. The key fob's ID will not be affected by changing the battery, so it shouldn't need to be reprogramed following the repair. This is great news for drivers looking to save money and avoid expensive trips to the dealership or locksmith.
Repairing the ignition Cylinder
Modern car key ignition systems require an exact sequence of movements before the engine will begin. If something happens to interrupt that process, such as an unrepaired key cylinder, it can cause your vehicle to stop running with no power. It is possible to replace the key cylinder, however it is not an easy task. The ignition is a delicate device designed to work with a particular key, and the process requires special tools, careful lubrication, and a precise understanding of how it's supposed to perform.
The first step is to determine whether the ignition will turn in the accessory position, and also if the key is inserted correctly. This will help you identify the issue. If you're unable to turn 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 then you can use a screwdriver for depressing the small anti-rotation button located at the bottom of the cylinder. Then, rotate the cylinder until its tabs for retaining and slots align and slide it out. If the cylinder won't turn in any way, or is stuck in a rut, you might need to gently tap it with an hammer or drill. But only do so with caution when drilling or rapping the cylinder may damage the steering column.
Once the old cylinder is gone and replaced, the new ignition cylinder can be installed in its place. Then, you'll have to code the new cylinder so it is in line with the key in terms of sequence and orientation. You will also need to take out and examine the tumblers. You'll also have to replace any worn-out tumblers.
After replacing the cylinder, you will need to attach the steering wheel and dashboard covers in the correct order. Make sure you carefully reattach the covers without affecting the wiring, as it's possible to lose the connection and damage important electronics. It's also crucial to reconnect the negative battery cable and test your new ignition.
Key Programming
Modern car keys are fitted with 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 who is experienced in a wide range of cars can reprogram your new key to your car quickly. They can also assist when your car's key lock has been damaged.
Many car locksmiths will claim that the process can take less than a minute when you follow the steps properly. OBD2 or EEPROM programming may take a little longer, because your locksmith will have to remove certain modules from the car to access the passcode and key information. These types of procedures are best left to professionals who have in-depth knowledge of circuit boards and electronics 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 the car, or simply forget them at home after loading groceries in the back seat. In these instances it's not uncommon for you to find yourself stranded by the side of the road without a way to your home or get to your destination. Locksmiths can program a spare key to your vehicle to allow you to drive again.
Car keys may stop working for a variety of reasons, such as normal wear and tear or if the lock is compromised. If the teeth on your car keys no longer fit inside the lock, it is recommended to think about replacing your key.
Many people try to reprogramme their car keys themselves however it is recommended to have an expert do the work for instead. These DIY methods can cause a corruption of the information on your car keys, causing it to malfunction, or even worse, damage to your security system. A professional will have a much lower risk of making an error that could cost you thousands in the future.
Broken Key Removal
If the car key breaks inside of the ignition cylinder and you need to remove the broken piece. It isn't possible to drive the vehicle until the damaged key is removed. It is recommended to hire a professional to complete this task, as improper use of lubricants and extraction tools can cause damage to the ignition. However, if you're determined to repair your car key that is broken at home first there are a few methods that could help.
Utilizing a pair or needle-nose pliers with longer tips is a great way to grasp the end of the key that is still sticking out from the ignition. You can also give your pliers a boost by securing the business side of them with some kind of sticky substance, such as super glue, melted tallow or putty. key car repair will then be able to latch onto the fragment of key and remove it from the cylinder.
A thin, stiff wire could be a great tool to slide along an old car key, and removing it from the lock. Paperclips can be used to accomplish this however, you must bend the ends slightly so that the fragment of the key is firmly held by the larger area.
Mini hacksaw blades are used to repair broken keys. They should be thin and compact to fit in the small openings in the cylinders for ignition. These tools are available at hardware stores or in the auto parts section of large box retailers.
Spraying a small amount of lubricant into the key hole can also be a good idea, since it can loosen the stuck piece of car key and make it easier to take it out. Do not attempt to force a broken car key out, since this can cause more damage to the key and possibly the ignition. A car key that is bent or broken in half can be dangerous and difficult project to repair, so it's a good idea to keep a spare car key in a secure place at all times.