5 Tips For Car Keys Repairs
Modern car keys are very complex and require professional repair services when they become damaged. This article will discuss five tips to keep your car keys in good condition.
In most cases, key fobs or remote controls can be repaired by simply replacing the battery. In other cases, reprogramming may be necessary. Refer to the owner's manual of your device for specific instructions or seek assistance from a professional.
Battery Replacement
Modern cars are equipped with remote key fobs that include keyless entry and remote start features, in addition to traditional keys made of metal. They are powered by tiny batteries that eventually run out and need to be replaced. The procedure is easy and can be accomplished by any auto accessory store that stocks the correct battery type for your vehicle model.
Check the owner's manual for your vehicle in order to determine the kind of battery is being used. Once you know what type of battery is on your key fob, head to an auto parts store near you and buy an alternative. Oftentimes, you can find the identical battery at a reduced price or even free if you take advantage of a special promotion.
Once you have the new battery, simply open your key fob and take out the circuit board by pulling off two seams with a flat-head screwdriver or your fingernail (if you are careful not to force any thing). Locate the battery compartment. It'll either be inserted, or have a plus/minus sign embossed. Install the new battery with care and ensure that it is oriented the same way as the old one.
Replace the circuit board once the battery is installed. The two halves back together. Once it is reassembled, test the buttons to make sure everything works as intended. The key fob's ID will not be affected by changing the battery, which means it shouldn't need to be replaced following the repair. This is great news for drivers who are looking to save money and avoid costly trips to the dealer or a locksmith.
Repairing the ignition Cylinder
Modern car key ignition systems require a series of precise movements before the engine can begin. If something interrupts that process, for instance a broken key cylinder or a damaged key cylinder, it could cause your vehicle to stop running with no power. Although it is possible to replace a key cylinder but it's not an easy process. The ignition is an intricate, one-key system. It requires special tools and precise lubrication.
First, check whether the ignition will turn in the accessory position, and also if the key is inserted correctly. This will help you identify the problem and find an answer. If you're unable to rotate the cylinder in any direction, refer to your owner's manual or contact locksmiths for assistance with the ignition.
If the cylinder will rotate in the accessory position then you can use a screwdriver to depress the small anti-rotation switch at the base of the cylinder. Then, you can rotate the cylinder until its slot line and tab are up, and slide it out of its casing. If the cylinder is stuck or won't rotate, you can tap it or drill it. Be cautious as rapping or drilling could harm the steering wheel.
After the old cylinder has been taken out and the new ignition cylinder will be installed in its place. You'll then need to code the cylinder to ensure that it is in line with the key in terms of sequence and orientation. You will also need to remove and inspect the tumblers. You'll also have to replace any worn-out tumblers.
After replacing the cylinder you'll need to attach the steering wheel and dashboard covers in the correct order. Reattach the dashboard and steering column covers in the proper order. Be cautious not to damage the wiring. It's easy to disconnect or damage crucial electronic components. Reconnecting key fob repairs is crucial. Test your new ignition.
Key Programming
Modern car keys include computer chips that communicate with the vehicle. In order for the key to start the engine the chip and the car have to "know each other".
A locksmith with experience in various types of vehicles can reprogram a key quickly. They can also help if the lock on your car key has been damaged.
Most car locksmiths will say that the process takes just a few minutes when you follow the steps properly. OBD2 or EEPROM programming may take a bit longer since your locksmith will need to remove certain modules from the car in order to read the passcode and key information. This kind of procedure should be left to experts with extensive understanding of circuit boards and electronic components, thus reducing the possibility of data corruption.
It's not common for people to lose keys to their cars or leave them in the trunk of the car or forget them at home after putting groceries in the back seat. In these scenarios you'll often be stranded on the side of the road with any way to get home or get to your destination. If you have a spare, your locksmith can program it into your car, allowing you to drive off once again.
Car keys can fail to function due to a variety of reasons, such as normal wear and tear, or in the event that the lock is damaged. If the teeth of your car key no longer fit the lock, it is a good indication to replace the key.
A lot of people try to program their own car keys however it is advised to hire professionals do this task for you 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 much lower risk of making a mistake that could cost you thousands in the future.
Broken Key Removal
If the car key breaks inside the cylinder of ignition and you need to remove the broken piece. It isn't possible to drive the vehicle until the broken key is removed. It is recommended to hire a professional to complete this task, as incorrect use of lubricants and extraction tools can damage the ignition. However, if you're determined to try and repair your car key that is broken at home there are a few methods that can be used to help.
Utilizing a pair of needle-nose pliers with longer tips can be a good way to grasp the stub of the key that's still sticking out from the ignition. You can also give your pliers a boost by securing the business side of them with an adhesive substance like super glue, melted tallow or putty. When this is done, the pliers will be able to latch onto the key fragment and pull it out of the cylinder.
A fine, stiff wire can be a useful tool for sliding alongside a broken car key and removing it from the lock. You can use a paperclip to accomplish this purpose, but be sure to bend each end slightly to increase the area that can be used to hold the key fragment.
Mini hacksaw blades are used to fix broken keys. But, they must be very small and thin to fit in the small openings in the cylinders for ignition. These tools are readily available in hardware stores as well as the auto parts section of a few major retailers.
Spraying some lubricant through the keyhole may help. It may loosen up the stuck piece and make it easier to remove. It is not a good idea to attempt to force out a broken key, as it can cause further damage to the ignition or the key. A car key that's bent or broken in half can be a risky and difficult task to fix, so it's a good idea to keep a spare car key in a secure location at all time.