5 Tips For Car Keys Repairs
Modern car keys are very complex and require professional repair services when they become damaged. This article will give you five tips to keep your car key in good condition.
In many instances, key fobs or remote controls can be repaired by replacing the battery. In certain cases, reprogramming is required. Refer to the owner's manual of your device or a professional for more specific instructions.
Battery Replacement
Many modern vehicles come with remote key fobs. These include remote starting and keyless entry features. They also have a traditional steel key. These keys are powered with small batteries which eventually run out and need to be replaced. Fortunately the process is simple and can be handled by any local auto accessory shop that has the appropriate battery type for your car model.
The first step is to consult the owner's manual for your vehicle to determine what kind of battery is used in your key fob. Once you've got this information, visit your local auto parts store and purchase the replacement. It is common to find the exact battery on sale or for free when you avail an offer.
If you're careful to not push any thing, you can pull away two seams using a flat-head screws or your fingernail. Find the battery compartment. It'll be inserted, or have a plus/minus mark embossed. Make sure to carefully insert the new battery, making sure it is aligned correctly with respect to the way the old one was.
Replace the circuit board after the battery is installed. The two halves back together. Test the buttons after reassembling to make sure everything works. The key fob's ID is not 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 looking to save money by not having to go to a locksmith or dealer.
Ignition Cylinder Repair
Modern car key ignition systems are complex and require a precise series of actions prior to the engine starting. If something interrupts that process, like the cylinder of a key that is broken that could cause your car to start with no power. Although it is possible to replace a key cylinder but it's not an easy process. The ignition is a delicate, single-key system. It requires special tools and precise lubrication.
First, check whether the ignition is turning in the accessory position and whether the key is properly inserted. This will help identify the issue. If you are unable to get the cylinder to rotate in any direction, you should check the owner's manual, or consult a professional locksmith to help with the ignition repair.
If the cylinder rotates in the accessory position you can use the screwdriver to press the tiny anti-rotation switch on the bottom of the cylinder. Then, you can rotate the cylinder until the retaining tab and slot line up, then slide it out of its casing. If the cylinder is stuck or refuses to move, you can gently tap it or drill it. However, do it with care, as drilling or rapping the cylinder can harm the steering column.
After the old cylinder has been taken gone and replaced, the new ignition cylinder will be installed in its place. You'll then need to code the cylinder so that it matches the key in terms of sequence, and orientation. Also, you'll need to remove the tumblers from the cylinder and examine them. If any of the tumblers are damaged, you'll have to replace them.
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 panels without damaging the wiring, as it's possible to loosen the wires and cause disruption to important electronics. It's also crucial to reconnect the negative battery cable and then test your new ignition.
Key Programming
Modern car keys contain a computer chip which communicates 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 kinds of vehicles can reprogram a key in a short time. They can also help you if the lock on the key to your car has been damaged.
Most car locksmiths will say that the process can take just a few minutes in the event that you follow all steps correctly. It may take longer for OBD2 programming or EEPROM programming, since these methods require a locksmith to remove specific modules out of the car (security components) in order to read the correct passcode and key data stored. These kinds of procedures should be left to professionals with extensive knowledge of circuit boards and electronics which reduces the chance of corrupting data.
Many people forget their car keys at home, or they leave keys in the trunk of their car after putting groceries in the back seat. In these instances you'll often be stranded 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 to allow you to return to your car.
The lock may be compromised or the key could cease to function due to normal wear and tear. If the teeth on your car key no longer fit inside the lock, you should think about replacing your key.
Many people attempt to reprogram their own car keys. However, it is recommended to seek out a professional. These DIY methods can cause a corruption of the information on your car key which can cause it to malfunction, or even worse damage to 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 will need to remove your broken key from the ignition cylinder in case it breaks. It will be impossible to drive your vehicle until the key is removed, and it is advised to call a professional for this task since there is a possibility of damaging the ignition with the wrong use of lubricants and extraction tools. If you're looking to fix your car keys that have broken at home, there are a few methods that may help.
Using a pair of needle-nose pliers with extra-long tips can be a good way to grasp the stub of the key that is still sticking out from the ignition. You can also give your pliers a boost by securing the business end of them with some kind of sticky substance, such as super glue, melted tallow, or putty. The pliers then can grasp the piece of key and pull it out of the cylinder.
g28carkeys of flexible, thin wire can be used to slide across the broken part of a key and pull it out of the lock. Paperclips can be used to accomplish this however, you must bend the ends slightly to ensure that the key is firmly held by the larger surface area.
Mini hacksaw blades can be used to fix broken keys. But, they must be very small and thin to fit in the small openings of the ignition cylinders. They can be found in hardware stores and the auto parts section of some large box retailers.
Spraying a little lubricant into the key hole can also be a good idea, as it could loosen the car key and make it easier to get it out. It is not a good idea to try to force out a damaged key, as it can cause further damage to the ignition or the key. A car key that's bent or snapped in half could be a dangerous and difficult project to fix, so it's a good idea keep a spare key for your car in a secure location in all at all times.