5 Tips For Car Keys Repairs
Modern car keys are quite complex, and require professional repair services when they fail. This article will discuss five tips to keep your car key in good condition.
Sometimes, issues with key fobs and remote controls can be resolved by replacing the battery. In other instances it is possible to reprogramme the device. Refer to the owner's manual of your device or an expert 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 by small batteries that eventually die and must be replaced. The procedure is easy and can easily be done by any auto accessory store that stocks the correct battery type for your car model.
Check the owner's manual for your vehicle to determine what kind of battery is in use. Once car keys repair have this information, go to your local auto parts store and purchase the replacement. Oftentimes, you can find the same battery at a discount or even free if you take advantage of an offer.
Once you have the new battery in your possession you can simply open your key fob and remove the circuit board by tearing off two seams using a flat-head screwdriver or your fingernail (if you are careful not to push any thing). Find the battery compartment. It'll either be slotted in, or have a plus/minus mark embossed. Carefully insert the new battery into place, making sure it is aligned correctly with respect to the way the old one was.
Replace the circuit board after the battery has been installed. Snap the two halves back together. Test the buttons after reassembling to verify that everything is working. The ID of the key fob will not be affected in the event that the battery is changed, so the key fob won't require reprogramming following the repair. This is a huge benefit for drivers who are looking to save money and avoid expensive trips to the dealership or a locksmith.
Repair of the ignition Cylinder
Modern car key ignition systems are complicated and require a precise sequence of actions before the engine can start. If something disrupts the process, such as an unrepaired key cylinder or a damaged key cylinder, it could cause your car to start with no power. It is possible to replace the key cylinder but it is not a simple process. The ignition is a delicate device designed to work with one particular key and requires special tools, careful lubrication, and a precise understanding of how it's supposed to function.
The first step is to determine whether the ignition will turn in the accessory position and if the key will insert properly. 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 turns in the accessory mode, you can use a screwdriver to push the small anti-rotation switch at the base 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 won't turn at all, or it's stuck in a dead end, you may need to gently tap it with an hammer or drill. Be careful as drilling or rapping can damage the steering wheel.
The new ignition engine will be installed after the old one is removed. Then, you'll have to program the new cylinder to ensure that it is in line with the key in terms of sequence and orientation. It is also necessary to remove and inspect the tumblers. You'll also need to replace any worn-out tumblers.
After replacing the cylinder, you'll need to attach the steering column and dashboard covers in the correct order. Reattach the dashboard and column covers in the proper order. Be cautious not to damage the wiring. It's easy to disconnect or disrupt crucial electronic components. It's also essential to reconnect the negative battery cable and then test your new ignition.
Key Programming
Modern car keys have an electronic chip that communicates with the vehicle. The chip and the vehicle must "know each other" before the key is able to start the engine.
A locksmith who is experienced in a variety of vehicles can reprogram your new key to your car quickly. They can also help you if the lock on the key to your car has been damaged.
Most car locksmiths will tell you that the process may take as little as one minute if the steps are done correctly. It can be a bit longer for OBD2 programming or EEPROM programming, since these methods require a locksmith to remove specific modules out of the car (security components) to identify the correct passcode and stored key data. These types of procedures are best reserved for professionals with extensive knowledge of circuit boards and electronics which reduces the chance of corrupting data.
It's not common for people to lose their keys to their car or put them in the trunk of the vehicle, or simply forget them after putting groceries in the back of the vehicle. In these scenarios you'll often end up 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 drive off once again.
The lock may be compromised or the key might cease to function due to normal wear and tear. If the teeth on your car key no longer fit the lock as well it is an indication to replace your key.
Many people attempt to reprogram their car keys. However, it's advised to seek out a professional. These DIY methods can corrupt the information on your car key, causing it to malfunction, or even worse harm to 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
If the car key breaks inside of the ignition cylinder it is necessary to remove the broken piece. You will not be able to drive your vehicle until the key is removed and it is recommended to contact an expert for this task since there is a possibility of damaging the ignition with the wrong use of lubricants and extraction tools. However, if you're determined to fix your broken car key at home first, there are some methods that can be used to aid.
Using a pair of needle-nose pliers with extra-long tips is a great method to grasp the end of the key that is still protruding from the ignition. You can also enhance your pliers by coating their business ends in sticky substances such as super glue, melted wax or putty. The pliers can then grasp the piece of key and pull it out of the cylinder.
A set of thin, stiff wire could be a useful tool to slide along a broken car key and removing it from the lock. Paperclips can be used to accomplish this however, you must bend the ends a bit so that the fragment of the key is gripped by the wider surface.
Mini hacksaw blades are an excellent tool for repairing broken keys, but they must be extremely small and thin to fit in the tiny opening of an ignition cylinder. These tools are available at hardware stores or in the auto parts sections of large box retailers.
Spraying a bit of grease into the hole of the key can also be a good idea, as it may loosen the stuck 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 key or ignition. A car key that's bent or snapped in half could be a risky and difficult task to fix, so it's a good idea keep a spare key for your car in a secure place in all time.