The Sage Advice On Car Keys Repair From An Older Five-Year-Old 5 Tips For Car Keys Repairs

Modern car keys are quite complex, and require professional repair services when they become damaged. This article will provide 5 tips for keeping your car keys in good condition.

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

Battery Replacement

Many modern cars now feature remote key fobs that include keyless entry and remote start features, as well as a traditional metal car key. They are powered by tiny batteries that eventually run out and require replacement. Fortunately this process is simple and can be handled by any local auto accessory shop that stocks the correct type of battery for your vehicle model.

Consult the owner's guide for your vehicle in order to determine the kind of battery is in use. Once you know what type of battery is inside your key fob, go to an automotive parts store near you to purchase a replacement. In most cases, you can get the same battery for sale or even free with the promotion.

Once you have the new battery, simply open your key fob, then remove the circuit board by pulling away two seams using a flat-head screwdriver or your fingernail (if you're careful not press any thing). Find the battery compartment. It'll be slotted in or have a plus/minus symbol embossed. Place the new battery in carefully and make sure it is placed in exactly the same way as the old one.


Replace the circuit board after the battery has been installed. Snap the two halves back together. Once it is reassembled, test out the buttons to ensure that everything works as intended. The key's ID fob won't be affected in the event that the battery is changed, so the key fob should not need to be reprogrammed after the repair. This is great news for drivers looking to save money by not having to go to a locksmith or dealership.

Repairing the ignition Cylinder

Modern key ignition systems for cars require a series of precise movements before the engine will begin. If something happens to interrupt that process, like the cylinder of a key that is broken or a damaged key cylinder, it could cause your vehicle to stop running with no power. While it's possible to replace a key cylinder, it's not a simple process. The ignition is an intricate, one-key system. It requires specialized tools and precise lubrication.

Find out if you can switch the ignition to the accessory position. Also, see if the key will fit correctly. This will help you identify the problem. If you are unable to turn 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 press the tiny anti-rotation switch at the base of the cylinder. Then, you can turn the cylinder until the retaining tab and slot line up, then slide it out of its casing. If the cylinder is stuck or won't turn, you can gently tap it or drill it. But only do so cautiously because drilling or rapping the cylinder could harm the steering column.

When the old cylinder is gone and replaced, the new ignition cylinder can be installed in its place. Then, you'll have to code the new cylinder in order that it is in line with the key in terms of sequence and orientation. You will also need to take off and inspect the tumblers. If any of the tumblers appear worn out, you'll need to replace them.

After replacing the cylinder after which you'll need to connect the dashboard covers and the steering column in their proper order. Make sure to attach the panels without disturbing the wiring, as it's possible to loosen the wires and cause disruption to crucial electronic components. Reattaching the negative battery cable is also crucial. 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 eachother" before the key can be used to start the engine.

A locksmith with experience in many different types of cars can reprogram a key in a short time. They can also assist if the lock on the car key has been damaged.

Many car locksmiths will inform you that the process may be as quick as one minute if all steps are followed correctly. OBD2 or EEPROM programming may take a bit longer, because your locksmith will have to remove certain modules from the car to access the passcode and key information. This type of procedure should be left to professionals with a thorough knowledge of circuit boards as well as electronic components, thus reducing the possibility of data corruption.

Many people forget their car keys when they get home, or they leave them in the vehicle's trunk after putting groceries in the back seat. In these situations you could end up on the side of the road, without any way to get home or to your destination. If you have a spare, your locksmith can program it into your car, allowing you to leave the road again.

Car keys can fail to function for a variety of reasons, such as normal wear and tear or even when the lock is damaged. If the teeth on your car keys no longer fit into the lock, it is recommended to think about replacing your key.

Many people attempt to reprogram their car keys themselves however it is recommended that you have an expert do the work for instead. These DIY methods can corrupt the information on your car key and cause it to malfunction or, even more damaging damage to your security system. A professional will have a less risk of making an error that could cost you thousands of dollars in the future.

Broken Key Removal

If your car key is broken inside of the ignition cylinder it is necessary to remove the broken piece. It isn't possible to drive the vehicle until the broken key is removed. It is best to hire a professional complete this task, as improper use of lubricants and extraction tools could damage the ignition. However, if you're determined to fix the broken car key at home first there are some strategies that could aid.

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 enhance your pliers by coating their business ends with a sticky substance like super glue, melted wax or putty. key fob repairs near me can grasp the piece of key and pull it out of the cylinder.

A fine, stiff wire can be used to slide over the broken part of a key and then remove it from the lock. Paperclips can be used to accomplish this, but bend the ends in a way to ensure that the key is firmly held by the wider surface.

Mini hacksaw blades can be a helpful tool for repairing broken keys, but they must be extremely small and thin in order to fit into the tiny opening of an ignition cylinder. These tools are available in hardware stores and the auto parts section of large box retailers.

Spraying some lubricant in the keyhole can also help. It can loosen the stuck piece, making it easier to take it out. It is not a good idea to try to force out a damaged key, since it could cause further damage to the ignition or the key. A car key that is bent or snapped in half could be a risky and difficult task to fix, so it's a good idea to keep a spare car key in a secure location in all time.