5 Tips For Car Keys Repairs

Modern car keys are quite complex, and require professional repair when they become damaged. This article will discuss 5 tips for keeping your car key in good condition.

In most instances, key fobs or remote controls can be fixed by replacing the battery. In other instances there may be a need to reprogramme. Check your owner's manual for specific instructions or seek out professional assistance.

Battery Replacement

Modern cars are equipped with remote key fobs that include keyless entry and remote start features, in addition to a traditional metal car key. They are powered by small batteries that eventually run out and need to be replaced. Fortunately, the process is quite simple and can be handled by any local auto accessory shop that stocks the proper battery type for the car model you have.

Consult the owner's guide for your vehicle to determine the kind of battery is in use. Once you know the type of battery is on the key fob, head to an automotive parts store near you and purchase an alternative. It is common to find the same battery for sale or even for free in the event of a special deal.

If you're careful to not push anything, you can pry off two seams using flat-head screws or your fingernail. Next, locate the battery compartment and it will be easy to locate - it will be either installed or have a plus or the minus symbol embossed on it. Make sure to carefully insert the new battery and make sure it's properly positioned based on the way the previous one was.

Once the new battery is in Replace the circuit board and then snap the two pieces of your key fob back together. Once it's all reassembled test the buttons to ensure that everything works as intended. The key fob's identification is not affected by changing the battery, which means it shouldn't need to be repaired following the repair. This is good news for drivers looking to save money by avoiding costly trips to a dealership or locksmith.

Repairing the ignition Cylinder

Modern car key ignition systems are extremely complex and require a precise series of actions before the engine starts. If something disrupts the process, like an unrepaired key cylinder, it can cause your car to start with no power. Although it is possible to replace a key cylinder, it's not a simple procedure. The ignition is a delicate device designed to work with a particular key and this process requires specialized tools, careful lubrication, and an exact understanding of how it's supposed to work.

Find out if you can switch the ignition to the accessory position. Also, check to verify that the key will fit correctly. This will help you diagnose the problem and find a solution. If you're unable to get the cylinder rotating in any direction then you must check the owner's manual, or contact a professional locksmith to assist you with the ignition repair.

If the cylinder is able to rotate in the accessory position then you can use a screwdriver to depress the small anti-rotation switch at the bottom of the cylinder. You can then rotate the cylinder until the slot line and tabs are up, then slide it out of its casing. If the cylinder doesn't move at all, or it's hopelessly stuck, you may need to gently tap it with a hammer or drill it. However, do it with caution because drilling or Car Keys Repairs rapping the cylinder could cause damage to the steering column.

The new ignition cylinder will be installed once the old one has been removed. Then, you'll need to code the new cylinder so it is in line with the key in terms of sequence and orientation. You will also need to remove and inspect the tumblers. If any of the tumblers are damaged, you'll have to replace them.

When the cylinder is replaced, you'll need to attach the dashboard covers and the steering column in the proper order. Make sure you carefully reattach the panels without damaging the wiring, as it's easy to loosen the wires and cause disruption to vital electronic components. It's also important to reattach the negative battery cable, and to test your new ignition.

Key Programming

Modern car keys have a computer chip which communicates with the vehicle. The chip and the car must "know eachother" before the key is able to start the engine.

A locksmith with experience in various types of vehicles can reprogram a new key quickly. They can also help you if the lock on the car key has been damaged.

Most car locksmiths will say that the process can take as little as a minute when you follow the steps correctly. OBD2 or EEPROM programming may take a bit longer, because your locksmith will have to remove specific modules from the car to access the passcode and key repair car information. This type of procedure is best left to experts with extensive knowledge of circuit boards and electronic components, thus reducing the possibility of data corruption.

It's not uncommon for people to lose their car keys or put them in the trunk of the car or even forget them after loading groceries in the back seat. In these situations it's not uncommon for you to be stranded at the side of the road without a way to get to home or your destination. If you have a spare, your locksmith can program it into your car to allow you to drive off once again.

Car keys may stop working for a variety reasons, including normal wear and tear or if the lock is compromised. If the teeth of your car key no longer fit inside the lock, you need to consider replacing your key.

Many people try to reprogram their own car keys. However, it's advised to employ a professional instead. These DIY methods can corrupt the information on your car keys and cause it to malfunction, or even worse, damage to your security system. A professional is less likely to make an error that could cost you thousands of dollars in the future.

Broken Key Removal

You'll need to remove your broken key from the ignition cylinder in case it fails to function. It will be impossible to drive your vehicle until the key is removed and it is recommended to contact a professional for this task, as there is a chance of causing damage to the ignition by incorrect use of lubricants or extraction tools. If you're determined to try and fix the broken car key at home, there are some methods that can be used to aid.

A pair of needle-nosed pliers with extra-long tips can be used to grasp the key end that is sticking out of the ignition. You can also boost your pliers by securing the business side of them with some kind of sticky substance, such as super glue, melted tallow, or putty. The pliers will then be able to latch onto the fragment of key and remove it from the cylinder.

A set of flexible, thin wire can be used to slide over the broken key and then remove it from the lock. You can use a paperclip for this purpose, but make sure to bend the ends to increase the area that is able to grip the key fragment.

Mini hacksaw blades are an excellent tool to fix broken keys, however they must be extremely thin and small to fit in the small opening of an ignition cylinder. They can be found at hardware stores as well as the auto parts section of some big box retailers.

Spraying a bit of oil into the key hole is also a good idea, as it may loosen the stuck piece of car key and make it easier to take it out. Do not attempt to force a broken car key out, as this could cause further damage to the key and the ignition. It can be dangerous and difficult to repair the car key that is bent or split in half. Keep an extra key in a safe location at all times.