9 Lessons Your Parents Teach You About Car Keys Repair

5 Tips For Car Keys Repairs

Modern car keys are quite complicated, and as such they require professional services to fix them when something goes wrong. This article will provide 5 tips to ensure your car keys are in good working order.

Often times, problems with key fobs or remote controls can be solved by replacing the battery. In other cases, reprogramming may be necessary. Consult your owner’s manual or an expert for more specific instructions.

Battery Replacement

Modern cars are equipped with remote key fobs that incorporate remote start and keyless entry features, as well as traditional keys made of metal. These keys are powered by small batteries which eventually run out and must be replaced. Fortunately, the process is quite easy and can be completed by any auto accessory shop that stocks the proper battery type for your vehicle model.

First, consult the owner's manual for your vehicle to determine the type of battery used in your key fob. Once you know this information, go to your local automotive parts store and purchase the replacement. Sometimes, you can find the same battery at a discount or even free with a special promotion.

Once you have the new battery in hand and you've opened your key fob and remove the circuit board by pulling away two seams using a screwdriver with a flat head or your fingernail (if you're careful not push any thing). Next, locate the battery compartment that is likely to be easy to spot It will either be installed or have a plus and the minus symbol embossed on it. Then, carefully place the new battery and ensure it is oriented correctly based on the way the previous one was.

After the new battery is in, replace the circuit board and snap the two pieces of your key fob together. Test the buttons after reassembling them to verify that everything is working. The identification of the key fob will not be affected in the event that the battery is changed and the key fob should not require reprogramming after the repair. This is a great benefit for drivers who are looking to save money and avoid costly trips to the dealership or a locksmith.

Repair of the ignition Cylinder

Modern car key ignition systems require an exact sequence of movements before the engine can start. If something disrupts the process, such as an unrepaired key cylinder, it can cause your car to not start without power. Although it is possible to replace a key cylinder however, it's not an easy procedure. The ignition is a delicate, one-key system. It requires specialized tools and precise lubrication.

The first step is to determine whether the ignition is turning in the accessory position, and keys also if the key is inserted correctly. This will help you identify the issue and keys determine a solution. If you're unable to rotate the cylinder in any direction, consult your owner's manual or contact locksmiths for assistance with the ignition.

If the cylinder rotates in the accessory position you can use a screwdriver to press the small anti-rotation switch on the bottom of cylinder. Then, you can turn the cylinder until the retaining tab and slot line up, and then slide it out of its casing. If the cylinder is stuck or won't move, you can gently tap it or drill it. Be careful as drilling or rapping can cause damage to the steering wheel.

After the old cylinder has been taken out and the new ignition cylinder can be installed in its place. You'll then need to code the cylinder to ensure that it matches the key both in terms of sequence, and orientation. Also, you'll need to remove the tumblers from the cylinder, and inspect them. If any of the tumblers appear worn out, you'll need to replace them.

After replacing the cylinder, you'll need to attach the dashboard and steering wheel covers in the correct order. Make sure you carefully reattach the covers without affecting the wiring, as it's easy to accidentally detach and disrupt crucial electronic components. It's also essential to reconnect the negative battery cable, and to test your new ignition.

Key Programming

Modern car keys come with a computer chip that communicates with the vehicle. The chip and the vehicle must "know each other" before the key can be used to start the engine.

A locksmith with experience in a wide range of cars can reprogram your new car key quickly. They can also assist you when your car's key lock has been damaged.

Many car locksmiths will inform you that the process may take just one minute if all steps are taken in the right order. OBD2 or EEPROM programming can take a little longer, since your locksmith will need to remove specific modules from the vehicle to read the passcode and key information. These types of procedures should be reserved for professionals with in-depth knowledge of circuit boards and electronics and can reduce the risk 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 even forget them after loading groceries in the back of the vehicle. In these instances it's not uncommon to be stranded at the side of the highway with no way to get to your home or where you want to go. Your locksmith can program a spare key to your vehicle to allow you to drive once more.

Car keys can fail to function for a variety reasons, including normal wear and tear, or when the lock is damaged. If the teeth of your car key repair car no longer fit the lock as well it is an indication to replace the key.

Many people attempt to program their own car keys. However, it's advised to employ a professional instead. It's not uncommon for DIY methods to corrupt the information on your key and cause it to fail, or even end up damaging your security system. A professional will have a much lower risk of making mistakes that cost you thousands of dollars in the future.

Broken Key Removal

When your car key breaks inside the cylinder of ignition, you will need to remove the broken piece. It will be impossible to drive your car until the key is removed, and it's best to call an expert for this task since there is a risk of causing damage to the ignition by improper use of lubricants or extraction tools. However, if you're determined to fix the broken car key at home there are a few methods that can be used to help.

Using a pair of needle-nose pliers that have extra-long tips is a great way to grasp the stub of the key which is still sticking out from the ignition. You can also improve the pliers by securing the business end of them with an adhesive substance like super glue, melted tallow or putty. Once this is done the pliers will be able to latch onto the key fragment and pull it out of the cylinder.

A set of thin, stiff wire can be a good tool to slide along an old car key, and removing it from the lock. Paperclips can be used for this, but bend the ends slightly so that the fragment of the key is firmly held by the larger surface area.

Mini hacksaw blades are a useful tool for repairing broken keys, but they need to be extremely small and thin in order to fit into the tiny opening in an ignition cylinder. They are available at hardware stores, as well as the auto parts section at some major retailers.

Spraying lubricant into the keyhole could be helpful. It could loosen the stuck piece, making it easier to remove. It's not a good idea to attempt to force out a damaged key, as it can cause further damage to the ignition or key. A car key that's bent or broken in half can be a risky and difficult task to repair, so it's a good idea to keep a spare key for your car in a secure place in all time.