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5 Tips For Car Keys Repairs
Modern car keys can be quite complex, and require professional repair when they fail. This article will offer 5 tips to ensure your car keys are in good working order.
In most cases, key fobs or remote controls can be repaired 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 assistance from a professional.
Battery Replacement
A lot of modern cars have remote key fobs that include remote start and keyless entry features, in addition to traditional keys made of metal. These keys are powered by small batteries that eventually wear out and need to be replaced. Fortunately, the process is quite easy and can be completed by any local auto accessory shop that has the correct type of battery for your vehicle model.
Check the owner's manual for your vehicle to determine what type of battery is used. Once you know the type of battery is on your key fob, head to an auto parts store near you to purchase an alternative. Oftentimes, you can find the same battery at a discount or even free with an offer.
Once you have the new battery, simply open your key fob, then remove the circuit board by prying apart two of the seams using a flat-head screwdriver or your fingernail (if you're careful not to press anything). Find the compartment for the battery. It will either be slotted in or have a plus/minus mark embossed. Insert the new battery carefully, making sure that it is in the same way as your old one.
Once the new battery is in replace the circuit board and then snap the two halves of your key fob back together. Test the buttons after reassembling them to ensure that everything is working. The key fob's identification is not affected by the change in the battery, therefore it won't require replaced after the repair. This is great news for those who want to save money and avoid costly trips to the dealer or locksmith.
Ignition Cylinder Replacement
Modern key ignition systems for cars require a series of precise movements before the engine can begin. A broken key cylinder can cause your car to stop getting started. Although it is possible to replace the key cylinder, it's not a simple process. The ignition system is delicately that is designed to work with a particular key and this process requires specialized tools, careful lubrication, and a precise understanding of how it's supposed work.
Find out if you can switch the ignition to the accessory position. Also, check to see if the key will fit correctly. This will help diagnose the issue. If you are unable to turn the cylinder in any direction, consult your owner's guide or contact a locksmith for help with the ignition.
If the cylinder rotates in the accessory position then you can make use of a screwdriver to press the small anti-rotation button located at the base of the cylinder. Then, turn the cylinder around until its tabs and slots align and then slide it out. If the cylinder is stuck or refuses to turn, you can gently tap it or drill it. But only do so with caution when drilling or rapping the cylinder may harm the steering column.
The new ignition cylinder will be installed once the old one has been removed. Then, you'll have to program the new cylinder to ensure 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 inspect them. If any of the tumblers are worn out, you'll need to replace them.
When the cylinder is replaced After the cylinder is replaced, you'll have to attach the dashboard and steering column covers in their proper order. Reattach the dashboard and steering column covers in the right order. Be cautious not to damage the wiring. It's easy to cut off or destroy vital electronic components. Reconnecting the negative battery cable is also crucial. Test your new ignition.
Key Programming
Modern car keys contain a computer chip which communicates with the vehicle. The chip and the vehicle must "know eachother" before the key can be used to start the engine.
A locksmith who has experience in a wide range of vehicles can reprogram your new key to your car quickly. They can also help if the lock on your car key has been damaged.
Many car locksmiths will claim that the process takes less than a minute when you follow the steps properly. OBD2 or EEPROM programming may take a bit longer, as your locksmith will need to remove certain modules from the car in order to access the passcode and key information. These kinds of procedures should be left to professionals with extensive knowledge of circuit boards and electronics which reduces the chance of data corruption.
It's not common for people to lose keys to their cars or leave them in the trunk of the car or even forget them at home after putting groceries in the back seat. In these scenarios you'll often end up on the side of the road with any way to get home or to your destination. Your locksmith can program a spare key to your vehicle so you can drive again.
Car keys can stop working due to 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 aren't fitting the lock it is an indication to replace the key.
Many people attempt to program their car keys themselves, but it is always recommended to have an expert do the work for you instead. These DIY methods can 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
When your car key breaks within the cylinder that controls the ignition, you will need to remove the broken piece. It isn't possible to drive the vehicle until the damaged key is removed. It is best to employ a professional do this job, as improper use of lubricants and extraction tools can damage the ignition. If you're determined to try and repair your car key that is broken at home there are some strategies that can assist.
Utilizing a pair or needle-nose pliers that have extra-long tips can be a good way to grasp the stub of the key which is still protruding from the ignition. You can also improve the pliers by securing the business side of them with some kind of sticky substance, such as super glue, melted tallow, or putty. The pliers then can grab the piece of key and pull it out of the cylinder.
A set of thin, stiff wire could be a useful tool to slide along a broken car key and pulling it out of mobile car key repair the lock. You can use a paperclip for this purpose, but be sure to bend the ends to increase the amount of surface that can hold the key fragment.
Mini hacksaw blades are an excellent tool for repairing broken keys, but they must be extremely thin and small in order to fit into the tiny opening in an ignition cylinder. These tools are available in hardware stores as well as the auto parts section at some big retailers.
Spraying some lubricant in the keyhole may help. It could loosen the stuck piece, making it easier to remove. Don't try to force a broken car key out, since this could cause further damage to the key and the ignition. A car key that's bent or broken in half can be risky and difficult task to repair, so it's a good idea to keep a spare key for your car in a secure location at all time.