5 Tips For Car Keys Repairs

Modern car keys can be quite complex, and require professional repair car key fob services when they become damaged. This article will offer 5 tips to ensure your car keys are in good working order.

Sometimes, issues 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 or an expert for more specific instructions.

Battery Replacement

Many modern vehicles come with remote key fobs that include keyless entry and remote starting features. They also include a traditional metal key. These keys are powered with small batteries that eventually wear out and must be replaced. Fortunately, the process is quite easy and can be accomplished by any local auto accessory shop that stocks the correct type of battery for your car model.

Refer to the owner's manual of your vehicle to determine the kind of battery is in use. Once you have figured out what kind of battery is inside your key fob, head to an auto parts store close to you and buy an alternative. Sometimes, you can find the same battery at a discount or even for free with a special promotion.

If you are careful to not push anything, you can pry apart two of the seams with a flat-head screw or your fingernail. Next look for the compartment for the battery, which is likely to be easy to spot It should be slotted in or have a plus or plus sign embossed on it. Carefully insert the new battery and make sure it's properly positioned 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. Once it is reassembled, test out the buttons to make sure everything is working as intended. The key fob's identification is not affected by changing the battery, therefore it won't require replaced after the repair. This is great news for drivers who are looking to save money and avoid costly trips to the dealership or locksmith.

Ignition Cylinder Replacement

Modern car key ignition systems are complicated and require a precise series of actions prior to the engine starting. If something happens to interrupt that process, such as a broken key cylinder, it can cause your car to not start without power. Although it's possible to repair the key cylinder, it's not a simple procedure. The ignition is a delicate system designed to work with one specific key, and the process requires special tools, careful lubrication, and a precise understanding of how it's supposed to work.

The first step is to determine whether the ignition will turn in the accessory position and if the key is properly inserted. This will help identify the issue. If you are unable to get the cylinder rotating in any direction then you must consult your owner's manual or call a locksmith professional to assist with the ignition repair.

If the cylinder will rotate in the accessory position it is possible to make use of a screwdriver to press the small anti-rotation button located at the base of the cylinder. Then, rotate the cylinder until its tabs and slots align and then slide it out. If the cylinder is stuck or refuses to rotate, you can tap it or drill it. But only do so with care because drilling or rapping the cylinder can damage the steering column.

The new ignition engine will be installed after the old one has been removed. The next step is to code the cylinder so that it is in line with the key both in terms of sequence, and orientation. It is also necessary to take off and inspect the tumblers. If any tumblers are damaged, you'll have to replace them.

After the cylinder is replaced, you'll need to attach the dashboard and steering column covers in their proper order. Make sure you carefully reattach the panels without damaging the wiring, as it's possible to lose the connection and damage vital electronics. It's also important to reattach the negative battery cable and then test your new ignition.

Key Programming

Modern car keys contain a computer chip which communicates with the vehicle. To allow the key to start the engine, the chip and car need to "know each one another".

A locksmith with experience in various types of vehicles can reprogram a key quickly. They can also assist you in the event that your car's lock has been damaged.

Most car locksmiths will say that the process can take less than a minute if you follow all steps properly. OBD2 or EEPROM programming may take a little longer, cool training since your locksmith will need to remove certain modules from the car to access the passcode and key data. This kind of procedure is best left to experts with extensive understanding of circuit boards and electronic components, which reduces the possibility of data corruption.

People frequently forget their car keys when they get home, or put them in the vehicle's trunk after putting groceries in the back seat. In these instances, you can often end up 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 again.

Car keys can fail to function for a variety of reasons, including normal wear and tear or in the event that the lock is damaged. If the teeth of your car key no longer fit inside the lock, you should consider replacing the key.

Many people try to program their car keys themselves but it is recommended to have a professional do this work for you instead. These DIY methods could corrupt the information on your car key and cause it to malfunction, or even worse damage to your security system. A professional is more likely to not make a a mistake which could cost you thousands of dollars in the future.

Broken Key Removal

If the car key breaks inside the cylinder of ignition, you will 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 an expert for this task since there is a chance of damaging the ignition with improper use of lubricants or extraction tools. However, if you're determined to fix your broken car key at home first there are some strategies that can be used to assist.

Utilizing a pair or needle-nose pliers with longer tips is a good way to grasp the end of the key that's still protruding from the ignition. You can also supercharge your pliers by coating their business ends with sticky substances such as super glue, melted wax or putty. Once this is done the pliers will be able grasp the key piece and pull it out of the cylinder.

A set of fine, stiff wire can be used to slide across the broken key and then remove it from the lock. You can use a paperclip for this purpose, but make sure to bend both ends slightly to increase the area that can be used to hold the key fragment.

Mini hacksaw blades can be used to repair broken keys. However, they must be extremely thin and compact to fit in the small openings of ignition cylinders. They are available at hardware stores and the auto parts section of a few big retailers.

Spraying a little grease into the hole of the key can also be a good idea, as it may loosen the car key and make it easier to take it out. It is not a good idea to attempt to force out a broken key, as it can cause further damage to the key or ignition. It can be dangerous and difficult to repair a car key that is bent or split in half. Keep a spare key in a safe place at all times.