A Provocative Rant About Car Keys Repair
Wiki Article
5 Tips For Car Keys Repairs
Modern car keys are very complex and require professional repair when they fail. This article will give you five tips to ensure your car keys are in good working order.
Often times, problems with key fobs and remote controls can be solved by replacing the battery. In other cases, reprogramming may be necessary. Refer to the owner's manual of your device for specific instructions or seek professional assistance.
Battery Replacement
Many modern cars come with remote key fobs that include keyless entry and remote starting features. They also include a traditional metal key. These keys are powered by small batteries that eventually run out and must be replaced. The procedure is easy and can be accomplished by any auto accessory store that has the correct type of battery for your car model.
First, consult the owner's manual of your vehicle to determine what kind of battery is used in your key fob. Once you know the type of battery is on your key fob, head to an auto parts store near you to purchase a replacement. It is common to find the exact battery on sale or even for free in the event of a special offer.
Once you have the new battery in hand and you've opened your key fob and take out the circuit board by prying away two seams using a flat-head screwdriver or your fingernail (if you're careful not to force any thing). Find the compartment for the battery. It will either be inserted, or have a plus/minus sign embossed. Place the new battery in carefully, making sure that it is oriented exactly the same way as the original one.
After the new battery is installed, replace the circuit board and snap the two parts of your key fob together. Once it's all reassembled test out the buttons to make sure everything is working as intended. The ID of the key fob won't change if the battery is changed and the key fob won't require reprogramming following the repair. This is great news for drivers who are looking to save money and avoid expensive trips to the dealership or a locksmith.
Ignition Cylinder Replacement
Modern key ignition systems for cars require an exact sequence of movements before the engine will start. A broken key cylinder can cause your car to stop starting. Although it's possible to repair the key cylinder but it's not an easy process. The ignition is a delicate, one-key system. It requires specialized tools and a careful oiling.
First, check whether the ignition is turning in the accessory position and whether the key is inserted correctly. This will help diagnose the problem. If you are unable to turn the cylinder in any direction, refer to the owner's manual or call a locksmith for help with the ignition.
If the cylinder is able to rotate in the accessory position then you can make use of a screwdriver to press the small anti-rotation button located at the bottom of the cylinder. You can then rotate the cylinder until the slot line and tabs are up, and then slide it out of its casing. If the cylinder won't turn at all, or it's hopelessly stuck, you may be required to gently tap it with a hammer or drill it. Do this with caution as rapping or drilling could 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 is in line with the key in terms of sequence and orientation. You will also need to take off and inspect the tumblers. If any of the tumblers are 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 very easy to accidentally detach and disrupt important electronic components. It's also crucial to reconnect the negative battery cable, and to test your new ignition.
Key Programming
Modern car keys are equipped with 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 with experience in a variety of vehicles can reprogram your new key to your car quickly. They can also assist if your car key's lock has been damaged.
Most car locksmiths will say that the process takes less than a minute when you follow the steps properly. It can be a bit longer for OBD2 programming or EEPROM programming, as these methods require your locksmith to extract specific modules out of the car (security components) to read the correct passcode and key data stored. This kind of procedure should be left to professionals with a thorough knowledge of circuit boards as well as electronic components, which reduces the possibility of data corruption.
It's not common for people to lose keys to their cars or put them in the trunk of their vehicle, or simply leave them at home after putting groceries into the back of the car. In these scenarios you'll often find yourself stranded on the side of how to repair car key fob the road without any way to get home or get to your destination. Your locksmith can program a spare key to your vehicle, allowing you to drive around again.
The lock can be compromised or the key could stop working because of normal wear and wear and tear. If the teeth of your car key do not fit into the lock, you need to consider replacing the key.
Many people try to reprogramme their own car keys however it is recommended that you have professionals do this task for instead. It's not uncommon for DIY methods to corrupt the information on your key, which can cause it to fail, or more serious cause damage to your security system. A professional will have a less risk of making a mistake that could cost you thousands of dollars in the future.
Broken Key Removal
You will need to remove your broken key from the cylinder of ignition if it fails to function. It isn't possible to drive the vehicle until the damaged key is removed. It is recommended to hire a professional to complete the task, since improper use of lubricants and extraction tools could damage the ignition. If you're determined to fix your broken car key at home there are a few methods that can help.
Using a pair of needle-nose pliers that have extra-long tips is a good method to grasp the end of the key which is still protruding from the ignition. You can also give your pliers a boost by coating the business end of them with an adhesive substance like super glue, melted tallow or putty. After this is done, the people will be able to latch onto the key fragment and pull it straight out of the cylinder.
A set of flexible, thin wire can be used to slide over the broken key and pull it out of the lock. You can use a paperclip for this purpose, but make sure to bend each end slightly to increase the area that can hold the key fragment.
Mini hacksaw blades are an excellent tool to fix broken keys, but they must be extremely thin and small so that they can fit into the tiny opening of an ignition cylinder. These tools are readily available in hardware stores and the auto parts section of a few large retailers.
Spraying a small amount of lubricant into the key hole could be a great idea, as it may loosen the stuck piece of car key and make it easier to remove. Do not attempt to force a broken car key out as this could cause further damage to the key and possibly the ignition. A car key that's bent or broken in half can be dangerous and difficult project to repair, so it's recommended to keep a spare car key in a secure location at all time.