5 Tips For Car Keys Repairs
Modern car keys are quite complicated, and as such they require professional services to fix them when something goes wrong. This article will give you five tips to keep your car key in good condition.
Sometimes, issues with key fobs or remote controls can be solved by replacing the battery. In other cases it is possible to reprogramme the device. Consult your owner’s manual or an expert for more specific instructions.
Battery Replacement
A lot of modern cars have remote key fobs that include keyless entry and remote start features, in addition to traditional keys made of metal. These keys are powered by tiny batteries that eventually die and require replacement. Fortunately the process is easy and can be completed by any auto accessory shop that has the correct type of battery for your vehicle model.
The first step is to consult the owner's manual for your vehicle to find out the type of battery used in your key fob. Once you know what type of battery is on the key fob, head to an auto parts store close to you and purchase an alternative. You may find the exact battery on sale or for free in the event of an offer.
Once you have the new battery you can simply open your key fob and remove the circuit board by tearing off two seams with a flat-head screwdriver or your fingernail (if you're careful not to press anything). Find the battery compartment. It'll be slotted in, or have a plus/minus sign embossed. Then, carefully place the new battery into place and ensure it is oriented correctly based on the way the previous one was.
Once the new battery is in replace the circuit board and snap the two parts of your key fob back together. After it's reassembled, test the buttons to ensure that everything is working as it should. The key fob's identification will not be affected by the change in the battery, therefore it shouldn't need to be replaced following the repair. This is a good thing for those looking to save money by avoiding costly trips to a dealership or locksmith.
Ignition Cylinder Replacement
Modern key ignition systems for cars require an exact sequence of movements before the engine can begin. If something happens to interrupt that process, like an unrepaired key cylinder or a damaged key cylinder, it could cause your vehicle to stop running with no power. It is possible to replace the key cylinder but it's not an easy process. The ignition is an intricate, one-key system. It requires specialized tools and careful lubrication.
Find out if you can turn the ignition in the accessory position. Also, verify that the key will fit correctly. This will help diagnose the issue. If you are unable to rotate the cylinder in any direction, consult the owner's manual or call locksmiths for assistance with the ignition.
If the cylinder rotates in the accessory position, you can use a screwdriver for depressing the small anti-rotation button at the bottom of the cylinder. You can then rotate the cylinder so that its retaining tabs and slots are aligned and then slide it out. If the cylinder doesn't move in any way, or is hopelessly stuck, you may be required to gently tap it with a hammer or drill it. However, do it cautiously, as drilling or rapping the cylinder may damage the steering column.
After the old cylinder has been taken gone and replaced, the new ignition cylinder will be installed in its place. The next step is to program the cylinder so that it matches the key in terms of sequence and orientation. It is also necessary to take out and examine the tumblers. You'll also need to replace any worn-out tumblers.
After replacing the cylinder After the cylinder is replaced, you'll have to attach the steering column and dashboard covers in their proper order. Make sure you carefully reattach the panels without damaging the wiring, as it's very easy to accidentally detach and disrupt vital electronic components. Reconnecting the negative battery cable is crucial. Test your new ignition.
Key Programming
Modern car keys contain computer chips that communicate with the vehicle. The chip and the vehicle must "know eachother" before the key can start the engine.
A locksmith who has experience with many different types of cars can reprogram a new key quickly. They can also assist if the lock on the key to your car has been damaged.
The majority of car locksmiths will tell you that the process may take as little as one minute if the steps are followed correctly. It can be a bit longer for OBD2 programming or EEPROM programming, since these procedures require your locksmith to take specific modules out of the car (security components) in order to read the correct passcode and stored key data. These kinds of procedures are best left to professionals who have extensive knowledge of circuit boards and electronics which reduces the chance of data corruption.
It's not common for people to misplace their car keys or leave them in the trunk of the car or forget them at home after putting groceries in the back of the vehicle. In these scenarios it's not uncommon to be stranded at the side of the highway without a way to get to home or your destination. Your locksmith can program a spare key to your vehicle to allow you to drive around again.
Car keys can fail to function due to a variety of reasons, such as normal wear and tear or even when the lock is damaged. If car keys repair of your car key do not fit in the lock as well it is an indication to replace the key.
Many people try to reprogram their car keys themselves, but it is always recommended that you have an expert do the work for instead. It's not uncommon for DIY methods to alter the data on your keys and cause it to fail, or more serious, damage 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
When your car key breaks within the cylinder that controls the ignition it is necessary to remove the broken piece. 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 because there is a risk of damaging the ignition through the wrong use of lubricants and extraction tools. However, if you're determined to try and fix the broken car key at home first there are a few methods that could help.
Utilizing a pair of needle-nose pliers that have extra-long tips is a good way to grasp the end of the key that is still protruding from the ignition. You can also give your pliers a boost by securing the business end of them with an adhesive substance like super glue, melted tallow, or putty. When this is done, the people will be able to hold onto the key fragment and pull it straight out of the cylinder.
A set of thin, rigid wire can be used to slide over the broken key and then remove it from the lock. Paperclips can be used for this, but bend the ends slightly so that the fragment of the key is firmly held by the larger area.
Mini hacksaw blades can be used to repair broken keys. But, they must be extremely thin and small to fit into the tiny openings of ignition cylinders. These tools are available at hardware stores as well as the auto parts section of large box retailers.
Spraying a little grease into the hole of the key can also be a good idea, since it can loosen the stuck car key and make it easier to remove. Never try to force a broken car key out, since this could cause further damage to the key and the ignition. A car key that's bent or snapped in half can be dangerous and difficult project to repair, which is why it's recommended to keep a spare car key in a secure place at all times.