Don't Stop! 15 Things About Car Keys Repair We're Sick Of Hearing 5 Tips For Car Keys Repairs

Modern car keys can be very complex and require professional repair when they break. This article will offer 5 tips to ensure that your car key is in good working order.

Sometimes, issues with key fobs or remote controls can be solved by replacing the battery. In certain cases, reprogramming is required. Consult your owner’s manual or a professional for more specific instructions.

Battery Replacement

Many modern vehicles come with remote key fobs that include keyless entry and remote start features. They also come with a traditional metal key. They are powered by small batteries that eventually deplete and require replacement. Fortunately this process is simple and can be handled by any local auto accessory shop that has the proper battery type for your car model.

The first step is to consult the owner's manual for your vehicle to determine the type of battery used in your key fob. 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 a replacement. It is common to find the exact battery on sale or even for free if you take advantage of a special deal.

Once you have the new battery in your possession and you've opened your key fob and take out the circuit board by pulling off two seams with a flat-head screwdriver or your fingernail (if you're careful not force any thing). Find the compartment for the battery. It will either be inserted or have a plus/minus mark embossed. Carefully insert the new battery into place and make sure it's aligned correctly with respect to the way the previous one was.

Once the new battery has been put in replace the circuit board and then snap the two halves of your key fob back together. Test the buttons after reassembling to verify that everything is working. The key fob's ID is not affected by the change in the battery, so it shouldn't need to be replaced after the repair. This is great news for drivers looking to save money and avoid expensive trips to the dealership or a locksmith.

Ignition Cylinder Repair


Modern car key ignition systems require an exact sequence of movements before the engine can begin. A damaged key cylinder can prevent your car from starting. While it's possible to replace 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.

Check if you are able to switch the ignition to the accessory position. Also, verify that the key will fit correctly. This will help diagnose the problem. If you are unable to turn the cylinder in any direction, refer to your owner's guide or contact an locksmith for assistance with the ignition.

If the cylinder is rotating in the accessory position, you can use a screwdriver to press the tiny anti-rotation switch at the base of the cylinder. Then, you can rotate the cylinder until its tabs for retaining and slots are aligned and slide it out. If the cylinder is stuck or refuses to turn, you can gently tap it or drill it. Be cautious as rapping or drilling could cause damage to the steering wheel.

The new ignition cylinder will be installed once the old one has been 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. Also, you'll need to remove the tumblers from cylinder and inspect them. If any of the tumblers are damaged, you'll have to replace them.

After replacing the cylinder, you'll need to attach the steering wheel and dashboard covers in the correct order. Attach the dashboard and steering column covers in the proper order. Be repair car key not to damage the wiring. It's easy to disconnect or damage crucial electronics. It's also crucial to reconnect the negative battery cable and test your new ignition.

Key Programming

Modern car keys have an electronic chip that communicates with the vehicle. The chip and the vehicle must "know each other" before the key is able to start the engine.

A locksmith with experience in a wide range of cars can reprogram a new key to your car quickly. They can also assist if the lock on the key to your car has been damaged.

Most car locksmiths will say that the process can take just a few minutes when you follow the steps correctly. OBD2 or EEPROM programming may take a bit longer because your locksmith will have to remove specific modules from the car to read the passcode and key information. This kind of procedure is best left to experts with extensive knowledge of circuit boards and electronic components, thus reducing the risk of data corruption.

It's not common for people to misplace their car keys, leave them in the trunk of the vehicle or even forget them after loading groceries into the back of the car. In these situations it's not uncommon for you to be stuck at the side of the highway without a way to get to your home or get to your destination. If you have a spare car, your locksmith can program it to your car to allow you to return to your car.

The lock can be compromised or the key may stop working due to normal wear and wear and tear. If the teeth on your car key no longer fit inside the lock, you need to consider replacing your key.

A lot of people try to program their own car keys however it is recommended to have a professional do this work for instead. These DIY methods can corrupt the information on your car key and cause it to malfunction or worse, damage to your security system. A professional is less likely to make a mistake which could cost you thousands of dollars in the future.

Broken Key Removal

If your car key is broken inside the cylinder of ignition, you will need to remove the broken piece. It will be impossible to drive your vehicle until the key is removed and it is advised to call an expert for this task, as there is a possibility of causing damage to the ignition by improper use of lubricants or extraction tools. However, if you're determined to fix your broken car key at home there are some strategies that could assist.

A pair of needle-nosed pliers that have extra-long tips can be used to grasp the key end that is still sticking out of the ignition. You can also boost the performance of your pliers by coating their business ends in a sticky substance like super glue, melted wax, or putty. When this is done, the pliers will be able latch onto the key fragment and pull it straight out of the cylinder.

A fine, stiff wire can be used to slide across the broken part of a key and then remove 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 fixing broken keys, however they must be extremely thin and small to fit in the small opening of an ignition cylinder. These tools are available in hardware stores and the auto parts section of some large box retailers.

Spraying some lubricant in the keyhole can also be beneficial. 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 even the ignition. A car key that is bent or snapped in half could be a risky and difficult task to repair, which is why it's recommended to keep a spare car key in a safe place in all time.