5 Tips For Car Keys Repairs
Modern car keys are quite complex, and require professional repair services when they break. This article will cover 5 tips for keeping your car key in good condition.
In many instances, key fobs or remote controls can be fixed by replacing the battery. In certain cases it is necessary to reprogramme the device. Refer to the owner's manual of your device for specific instructions or seek professional assistance.
Battery Replacement
Many modern vehicles come with remote key fobs that include keyless entry and remote starting features. They also come with a traditional metal key. They are powered by small batteries that eventually die and require replacement. The process is simple and can easily be done by any auto accessory store that stocks the correct battery type for the vehicle you own.
The first step is to consult the owner's manual of your vehicle to discover what kind of battery is used in your key fob. Once you know this information, go to your local auto parts store and purchase a replacement. You can often find the same battery for sale or for free when you avail a special deal.
If you take care to not force something, you can tear apart two of the seams using a flat-head screws or your fingernail. Locate the battery compartment. It will either be slotted in or have a plus/minus symbol embossed. Install the new battery with care, making sure that it is in the same way as your original one.
After the new battery is installed Replace the circuit board and snap the two parts of your key fob back together. Test the buttons after reassembling them to make sure everything works. The key fob's identification is not affected by the change in the battery, therefore it won't require reprogramed following the repair. This is a huge benefit for those who want to save money and avoid costly trips to the dealer or a locksmith.
Ignition Cylinder Replacement
Modern car key ignition systems are complicated and require a precise sequence of movements prior to the engine starting. A broken key cylinder can cause your car to stop beginning. While it's possible to replace a key cylinder, it's not a simple process. The ignition is a delicate system designed to work with a particular key, and the process requires specialized tools, precise oiling, and a thorough understanding of how it's supposed to perform.
First, determine if the ignition will turn in the accessory position, and also if the key is properly inserted. This will help you identify the issue. If you are unable to get the cylinder to rotate in any direction then you must consult your owner's manual or consult a professional locksmith to help with the ignition repair.
If the cylinder is rotating in the accessory position you can use a screwdriver to press the small anti-rotation switch on the bottom of cylinder. Then, you can rotate the cylinder until the slot line and tab are up, and then slide it out of its casing. If the cylinder doesn't move in any way, or is stuck in a dead end, you may have to tap it with a hammer or drill it. But do so cautiously because drilling or rapping the cylinder could damage the steering column.
After the old cylinder has been taken out and the new ignition cylinder can be installed in its place. Then, you'll have to code the new cylinder in order that it is compatible with the key in terms of sequence and orientation. You'll also need to remove the tumblers from the cylinder, and examine them. 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 proper order. Reattach the dashboard and steering column covers in the correct order. Be careful not to disturb the wiring. It's easy to disconnect or damage crucial electronics. Reconnecting the negative battery cable is also important. Test your new ignition.
Key Programming
Modern car keys have an electronic 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 key in a short time. They can also help you in the event that your car's lock has been damaged.
Most car locksmiths will tell you that the process could take as little as one minute if the steps are done correctly. OBD2 or EEPROM programming can take a bit longer because your locksmith will have to remove certain modules from the car in order to read the passcode and key data. This kind of procedure is best left to professionals with a thorough knowledge of circuit boards and electronic components, thus reducing the chance of data corruption.
It's not common for people to misplace their car keys, leave them in the trunk of their vehicle or even forget them after loading groceries in the back of the vehicle. In these situations you'll often find yourself stranded on the side of the road, without any way to get home or get to your destination. Your locksmith can program a spare key to your vehicle to allow you to drive once more.
Car keys can stop working for a variety of reasons, including normal wear and tear or even if the lock is compromised. If the teeth of your car keys no longer fit inside the lock, you should consider replacing your key.
Many people attempt to reprogramme their own car keys but it is recommended that you have a professional do this work for you instead. These DIY methods could corrupt the information on your car key which can 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 will need to remove the broken key from the ignition cylinder in case 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 to do this job, as improper use of lubricants and extraction tools could damage the ignition. If you're determined to fix the broken car key at home there are a few methods that can be used to help.
A pair of needle-nosed pliers that have extra long tips can be used to grasp the key end that is stuck in the ignition. You can also improve the pliers by securing the business end of them with some kind of sticky substance, such as super glue, melted tallow, or putty. After this is done, the pliers will be able hold onto the key fragment and pull it straight out of the cylinder.
A fine, stiff wire can be used to slide over a broken key and pull it out of the lock. Paperclips can be used for this however, you must bend the ends slightly so that the key fragment is held by the wider surface.
Mini hacksaw blades can be used to repair damaged keys. car key circuit board repair must be very small and thin to fit into the tiny openings of ignition cylinders. These tools are readily available in hardware stores as well as the auto parts section at some big retailers.
Spraying a little lubricant into the key hole could be a great idea, since it can loosen the car key and make it easier to remove. It's not a great idea to try to force out a broken key, as it could cause further damage to the ignition or key. A car key that's bent or snapped in half could be a dangerous and challenging project to fix, so it's a good idea keep a spare key for your car in a secure location in all time.