5 Tips For Car Keys Repairs
Modern car keys are quite complex, and they require professional services to fix them when something goes wrong. 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 simply replacing the battery. In other instances there may be a need to reprogramme. Check the owner's manual or a professional for more specific instructions.
Battery Replacement
A lot of modern cars have remote key fobs, which include remote start and keyless entry features, as well as traditional keys made of metal. They are powered by small batteries that eventually wear out and need to be replaced. The process is simple and can be completed by any auto accessory store that has the correct type of battery for your vehicle model.
First, check the owner's manual for your vehicle to find out what kind of battery is used in your key fob. Once you know this information, visit your local auto parts store and purchase the replacement. Oftentimes, you can find the same battery at a discount or even for free with an offer.
Once you have the new battery and you've opened your key fob and take out the circuit board by prying off two seams using a flat-head screwdriver or your fingernail (if you're careful not force any thing). Then you need to locate the battery compartment that will be easy to locate It should be installed or have a plus and plus sign embossed on it. Then, carefully place the new battery into place 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 is working as it should. The key fob's identification will not be affected by the change in the battery, therefore it won't require repaired following the repair. This is great news for drivers looking to save money and avoid costly trips to the dealership or a locksmith.
Ignition Cylinder Replacement
Modern car key ignition systems require an exact sequence of actions before the engine can begin. If something disrupts the process, for instance an unrepaired key cylinder or a damaged key cylinder, it could cause your vehicle to stop running with no power. Although it's possible to repair a key cylinder however, it's not an easy process. The ignition is a delicate, one-key system. It requires specialized tools and careful oiling.
Find out if you can turn the ignition in the accessory position. Also, see if the key will fit properly. This will help you identify the problem. If you cannot rotate the cylinder in any direction, refer to the owner's manual or call locksmiths for assistance with the ignition.
If the cylinder is able to rotate in the accessory position it is possible to make use of a screwdriver to press the small anti-rotation button at the bottom of the cylinder. Then, rotate the cylinder until its retaining tabs and slots are aligned and then slide it out. If the cylinder is stuck or won't rotate, you can tap it or drill it. Be careful as drilling or rapping can harm the steering wheel.
The new ignition engine will be installed after the old one has been removed. Then, you'll have to code the new cylinder in order that it matches the key in terms of sequence and orientation. You'll also need to remove the tumblers from cylinder and inspect them. If any of the tumblers appear damaged, you'll have to replace them.
After replacing the cylinder you will need to attach the dashboard and steering wheel covers in the correct order. Make sure you carefully reattach the panels without damaging the wiring, as it's possible to lose the connection and damage crucial electronics. It's also crucial to reconnect the negative battery cable and 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 each other" before the key can start the engine.
A locksmith with experience in various types of vehicles can reprogram a key quickly. They can also help if the lock on the car key has been damaged.
Most car locksmiths will tell you that the process may take just one minute if the steps are taken in the right order. remote key repairs or EEPROM programming can take a bit longer, as your locksmith will need to remove certain modules from the vehicle to read the passcode and key data. These types of procedures are best left to professionals with in-depth knowledge of circuit boards and electronics which reduces the chance of corrupting data.
It's not uncommon for people to lose keys to their cars or put them in the trunk of the vehicle or leave them at home after putting groceries in the back of the vehicle. In these scenarios you could find yourself stranded on the side of the road without any way to get home or get to your destination. Locksmiths can program a spare key for your vehicle, allowing you to drive once more.
The lock can be compromised or the key might stop working due to normal wear and tear. If the teeth of your car key no longer fit the lock as well, it is a good indication to replace your key.
A lot of people try to program their car keys themselves however it is advised to hire a professional do this work for you instead. These DIY methods can corrupt the information on your car key and cause it to malfunction, or even worse harm 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
When your car key breaks inside the cylinder of ignition and you need to remove the broken piece. You will not be able 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 incorrect use of lubricants or extraction tools. However, if you're determined to try and fix the broken car key at home, there are some methods that can aid.
Using a pair of needle-nose pliers that have extra-long tips can be a good way to grasp the end of the key that's still protruding 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. Once this is done the people will be able to latch onto the key fragment and pull it straight out of the cylinder.
A thin, stiff wire could be a good tool for sliding alongside an old car key, and removing it from the lock. You can use a paperclip for this purpose, but be sure to bend both ends slightly to increase the amount of surface that can hold the key fragment.
Mini hacksaw blades are a useful tool for fixing broken keys, but they must be extremely thin and small in order to fit into the small opening of an ignition cylinder. They are available at hardware stores as well as the auto parts section of a few large retailers.
Spraying some lubricant through the keyhole may be helpful. It could loosen the piece that is stuck and make it easier to remove. It is not a good idea to attempt to force out a broken key, as it could cause further damage to the ignition or key. A car key that is bent or broken in half could be a dangerous and difficult project to repair, so it's recommended to keep a spare car key in a safe place at all at all times.
