The 10 Most Scariest Things About Car Keys Repair 5 Tips For Car Keys Repairs

Modern car keys are complex, and they require expert assistance to fix them when something goes wrong. This article will provide 5 tips for keeping your car key in good condition.


In many instances, key fobs or remote controls can be fixed by simply replacing the battery. In other instances, reprogramming may be necessary. Consult your owner's manual for specific instructions or seek professional assistance.

Battery Replacement

Modern cars are equipped with remote key fobs that include remote start and keyless entry features, as well as traditional keys made of metal. These keys are powered by small batteries that eventually deplete and need to be replaced. Fortunately, the process is quite simple and can be handled by any local auto accessory shop that has the proper battery type for your vehicle model.

Refer to the owner's manual of your vehicle in order to determine what kind of battery is in use. Once you've got this information, visit your local auto parts store and purchase an alternative. Sometimes, you can find the same battery for sale or even for free with a special promotion.

If you're careful to avoid pushing any thing, you can pull off two seams with a flat-head screw or your fingernail. Next look for the compartment for the battery, which should be easy to identify It should be installed or have a plus or the minus symbol embossed on it. Place the new battery in carefully, making sure that it is placed in the same way as the original one.

Once the new battery has been put installed, replace the circuit board and snap the two parts 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 changing the battery, therefore it shouldn't be required to be reprogramed after the repair. This is great news for those looking to save money by avoiding costly trips to a locksmith or dealer.

Ignition Cylinder Replacement

Modern car key ignition systems 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's possible to repair the key cylinder but it's not an easy procedure. The ignition is a delicate, one-key system. It requires specialized tools and careful lubrication.

Find out if you can turn the ignition on in the accessory position. Also, see if the key will fit properly. This will allow you to identify the problem and find an answer. If you cannot rotate the cylinder in any direction, consult the owner's manual or call an locksmith for assistance with the ignition.

If the cylinder is rotating in the accessory position, you can use the screwdriver to push the small anti-rotation switch at the base of cylinder. You can then rotate the cylinder until its slot line and tabs are up, and then slide it out of its casing. If the cylinder is stuck or doesn't move, you can gently tap it or drill it. But only do so cautiously when drilling or rapping the cylinder could harm the steering column.

The new ignition cylinder will be installed once the old one is removed. The next step is to program the cylinder in a way that it is in line with the key in terms of sequence and orientation. You'll also need to remove the tumblers from cylinder and examine them. It is also necessary to replace any tumblers that have 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 column covers in the correct order. Be careful not to disturb the wiring. It's easy to accidentally cut off or destroy crucial electronic components. It's also important to reattach the negative battery cable and test your new ignition.

Key Programming

Modern car keys have a computer chip which communicates with the vehicle. The chip and the car must "know eachother" before the key is able to start the engine.

A locksmith with experience in many different kinds of vehicles can reprogram a key quickly. They can also assist if the lock on your car key has been damaged.

Many car locksmiths will inform you that the process may take just one minute if the steps are done correctly. OBD2 or EEPROM programming can take a little longer, as your locksmith will need to remove certain modules from the car to read the passcode and key information. This type of procedure is best left to professionals with extensive knowledge of circuit boards and electronic components, thus reducing the chance of data corruption.

It's not uncommon for people to lose keys to their cars or put them in the trunk of the vehicle, or simply forget them after loading groceries in the back of the vehicle. In these situations it's not uncommon for you to be stuck at the side of the road without a way to get to your 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 be inoperable because of normal wear and tear. If your car key's teeth no longer fit the lock as well it is an indication that you should replace the key.

Many people attempt to program their own car keys. However, it is recommended to hire a professional instead. These DIY methods could corrupt the information on your car key, causing it to malfunction or 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'll have to remove your 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 best to employ a professional complete this task, as the incorrect use of lubricants or extraction tools can cause damage to the ignition. If you're determined to fix the broken car key at home there are some strategies that can be used to help.

A pair of needle-nosed pliers with extra long tips can be used to grasp the key's end that's stuck in the ignition. You can also boost your pliers by coating the business end of them with a sticky substance such as super glue, melted tallow, or putty. The pliers will then be able to grasp the piece of key and remove it from the cylinder.

A flexible, thin wire can be used to slide along the broken key and then remove it from the lock. Paperclips can be used to accomplish this however, bend the ends in a way to ensure that the key is held by the larger surface area.

Mini hacksaw blades can be used to repair damaged keys. They must be extremely thin and small to fit into the tiny openings of the ignition cylinders. These tools can be purchased at hardware stores or in the auto parts sections of some large box retailers.

Spraying a small amount of lubricant into the key hole could be a great idea, as it could loosen the stuck piece of car key and make it easier to take it out. emergency car key repair try to force a damaged car key out, as this could cause further damage to the key and possibly the ignition. emergency car key repair can be dangerous and difficult to fix a car key that has been bent or split in half. Keep a spare key in a safe location always.