5 Tips For Car Keys Repairs
Modern car keys can be very complex and require professional repair when they fail. This article will provide 5 tips to keep your car key in good condition.
Often times, problems with key fobs and remote controls can be solved by replacing the battery. In other instances, reprogramming may be necessary. 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 remote start and keyless entry features, as well as traditional keys made of metal. These keys are powered by small batteries that eventually run out and need to be replaced. The process is simple and can be accomplished by any auto accessory store that stocks the correct type of battery for your car model.
First, consult the owner's manual for your vehicle to find out what kind of battery is used in your key fob. Once you have figured out what kind of battery is inside the key fob, head to an automotive parts store near you and purchase an alternative. You can often find the exact battery on sale or for free if you take advantage of an offer.
Once you have the new battery and you've opened your key fob, then remove the circuit board by pulling off two seams using a screwdriver with a flat head 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 sign embossed. Insert the new battery carefully and make sure it is in the same way as the original one.
After the new battery is in Replace the circuit board and then snap the two halves of your key fob back together. After it's reassembled, test the buttons to make sure everything is working as it should. The key fob's ID is not affected by the change in the battery, so it shouldn't be required to be reprogramed following the repair. This is good news for those who want to save money by avoiding costly trips to a locksmith or dealer.
Ignition Cylinder Replacement
Modern car key ignition systems require an exact sequence of movements before the engine can start. A damaged key cylinder could prevent your car from getting started. It is possible to replace the key cylinder, but it's not a simple process. The ignition system is delicately designed to work with a specific key and requires specialized tools, careful lubrication, and a precise understanding of how it's supposed perform.
Determine if you can turn the ignition on in the accessory position. Also, check to determine if the key can fit properly. This will allow you to identify the issue and provide an answer. If you are unable to get the cylinder to turn in any direction then you must check the owner's manual, or contact a professional locksmith to assist with the ignition repair.
If the cylinder turns in the accessory position you can use a screwdriver to press the small anti-rotation switch at the base of cylinder. You can then rotate the cylinder until its tabs and slots line up and then slide it out. If the cylinder won't turn at all, or it's stuck in a dead end, you may need to gently tap it with the hammer or drill it. Be careful because drilling or rapping could damage the steering wheel.
When the old cylinder is out and replaced, the new ignition cylinder will be installed in its place. After that, you'll need to program the new cylinder to ensure that it is compatible with the key in terms of sequence and orientation. It is also necessary to remove and inspect the tumblers. You'll also have to replace any tumblers that are worn out.
After replacing the cylinder, you'll need to attach the dashboard and steering wheel covers in the correct order. Be sure to carefully reattach the covers without affecting the wiring, as it's possible to loosen the wires and cause disruption to crucial electronic components. It's also crucial to reconnect the negative battery cable and then test your new ignition.
Key Programming
Modern car keys come with a computer chip that communicates with the vehicle. The chip and the car must "know eachother" before the key can be used to start the engine.
A locksmith who has experience with various types of vehicles can reprogram a new key in a short time. They can also help if the lock on the car key has been damaged.
Many car locksmiths will inform you that the process may take just one minute if all steps are done correctly. OBD2 or EEPROM programming can take a bit longer, as your locksmith will need to remove specific modules from the vehicle to read the passcode and key information. This kind of procedure is best left to experts with extensive understanding of circuit boards and electronic components, thus reducing the possibility of data corruption.
People frequently forget their car keys at home, or leave them in the trunk of the car after loading groceries into the back seat. In these situations, it's not uncommon to be stranded at the side of the highway without a way to get to your 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 can be compromised or the key could cease to function due to wear and tear. If your car key's teeth no longer fit the lock, it is a good indication to replace the key.
A lot of people try to reprogramme their car keys themselves, but it is always advised to hire a professional do this work for you instead. It is not uncommon for DIY methods to corrupt the information on your key, which can cause it to fail, or worse cause damage to your security system. A professional is less likely to make mistakes that could cost you thousands of dollars in the future.
Broken Key Removal
You will need to remove the broken key from the cylinder of ignition if it fails to function. It is not possible to drive the vehicle until the broken key is removed. It is recommended to hire a professional complete the task, since the incorrect use of lubricants or extraction tools can damage the ignition. If you're looking to fix your car keys that have broken at home, there are a few options that could aid.
A pair of needle-nosed pliers that have extra-long tips can be used to grasp the key's end that's sticking out of the ignition. You can also enhance your pliers by coating their business ends in an adhesive substance such as super glue, melted wax or putty. visit this weblink will then be able to grab the piece of key and remove it from the cylinder.
A set of flexible, thin wire can be used to slide along a broken key and then remove 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 can be a helpful tool for fixing broken keys, but they need to be extremely thin and small so that they can fit into the tiny opening in an ignition cylinder. These tools are readily available in hardware stores, as well as the auto parts section of a few big retailers.
Spraying a bit of grease into the hole of the key is also a good idea, as it could loosen the stuck piece of car key and make it easier to remove. Never try to force a damaged car key out, since this can cause more damage to the key and possibly the ignition. A car key that's bent or snapped in half could be a dangerous and challenging project to repair, so it's a good idea keep a spare car key in a safe place at all time.