Vehicle Key Repairs You Shouldn't Do Yourself
If your car's ignition key stops working, it could be a huge trouble. It could be due to various reasons.
The good news is that most keys to vehicles can be repaired without visiting the dealership or paying for a locksmith. Here are a few common issues and their simple solutions.
Keys Lost or Broken
You want your vehicle to run quickly after a major break. However, trying DIY repairs can worsen the situation. If the key breaks in the ignition cylinder, do not attempt to force it out, as this could damage the lock and ignition.
Instead, contact the local locksmith to get help. They'll have the appropriate tools to take out your broken key without further damage. If you want to do it yourself, put needle-nosed pliers inside the cylinder and grab the broken piece. If this isn't working then try using a jigsaw blade with downward-facing teeth to latch onto and pull the broken key. Never attempt to insert any other item into the cylinder, since doing so could cause the key to be pushed further into it and make it even more difficult to get it out.
The battery could be dead. You can easily replace the lithium-ion buttons or coin cell batteries on a variety of models. You can purchase replacement batteries at supermarkets, pharmacies and home improvement shops. If your key is damaged or lost, you should bring it to an experienced auto technician who can swap the battery and create a new key.
If your key fob is a high-tech one that has been damaged or lost, you will likely have to visit the dealer to get a replacement. In contrast to traditional mechanical keys, these kinds of keys must be programmed to the vehicle by the manufacturer. In these cases the best solution is to have professionals create a duplicate key for you. They can make the right cut, reassemble mechanism, and transfer the transponder chip of the original key to the new key.
You'll have to go to the dealer for a replacement if your car key is a high-tech model that has an LCD. The manufacturer needs to reprogram high-tech keys into the vehicle's security system. Most dealers have the necessary equipment to complete this task on the spot. They'll also cut you a replacement key, meaning you don't have to wait for the new key to arrive in the mail.
Dead Batteries
Batteries are a vital element in any device or gadget, and they are susceptible to wear out from prolonged use or lack of charging. If your car key fob is showing indications of a dead battery it is crucial to fix the issue as soon as you notice. A dead battery typically means the remote's key fob functions will not respond to button presses and that electrical components such as the starter in your vehicle may not respond to jump-start attempts.
More Signup bonuses inside the car key is usually a coin-sized unit that can be changed at home or by an expert locksmith. Make sure you know the kind of battery that is used in your vehicle prior to replacing it. You can often find the information on the battery or in your vehicle's documentation. Making a mistake with the replacement could cause your key fob to malfunction or not work in any way, requiring costly repairs or a whole new purchase.
A dead battery is identified by a slower response time when pressing key fob buttons or by intermittent functionality and dimming of key fob lights. A battery that shows zero voltage on a voltage meter is also likely dead, and physical damage to the battery case could indicate irreparable internal damage.
You can replace the battery of a car key fob at home by loosening the screw in the back of the fob using a screwdriver and sliding it open to reveal the battery compartment. You can then take out the battery that was in place using an abrasive screwdriver that is small and flat and then insert a new one in the same location. Once you're done, snap the 2 halves of the fob back together, and test it to see if the key is working correctly.
Keep the screw that holds the key fob battery in place. Store it safely in case you don't intend to use it again. Certain models of vehicles come with special screws that need to be removed in order to access the key fob's battery. If this is the case with your vehicle, consult the owner's manual or an online video tutorial to determine how to remove it safely.
Transponder Chip
Most modern car keys come with a transponder chip (also called a "chipped key"). The reason for this is to help stop vehicles from becoming hot wired. When you put your key transponder in the ignition it transmits a radio signal transmitted to the chip inside the head via an antenna (which is actually an induction coil). The car's computer confirms that the signal is coming from the correct owner and allows your engine to start. This is a great method to safeguard your vehicle and add an extra layer of security.
One of the most obvious signs that the chip that transponders isn't functioning properly is the inability to start your vehicle. If you turn the the ignition but the car won't start or turn over, it could be a sign that the transponder chip hasn't been communicating with the system of your vehicle correctly.
A transponder key requires electronic power to work and that power is provided by a small battery within the head of the key. Over time, that battery will run out of charge and stop supplying the necessary power to allow your car to start.
If you're experiencing problems with your transponder key, it's essential to have it checked out by an expert. A locksmith expert can identify the issue and either replace the battery or reprogram the key so that it functions correctly again.
It is possible to observe that a transponder-type key is more expensive than a standard metal key. This is due to the higher costs involved in manufacturing a chipped key. This does not mean that you must visit the dealership each time you need a new key. You should look around and compare companies before selecting one. Be aware that some companies are able to provide lower-cost keys for replacement due to their lower cost of operations. However it's crucial to remember that a cheaper key isn't necessarily going to be the top quality. It may be worth paying a bit more for a key that is of higher quality and will last longer.
Programming
Modern cars are equipped with keys and fobs that do a lot more than simply unlock the doors or open the trunk. Some keys and fobs have features that let you start your car remotely and lock your doors at the press of one button. They can also be secured against physical and digital attacks. The fobs and keys must be programmed correctly, otherwise they will not work. This task is usually reserved for auto technicians with experience or locksmiths, because it requires an in-depth knowledge of the vehicle's security system and the use of specific tools.
Reprogramming a fob or key is required in a handful of cases. Most often, it is necessary to reprogramme a key or fob is lost or stolen, or if someone purchases a used vehicle and needs to ensure that the keys that were previously used won't work in the car. Certain vehicles require special tools to reprogram fobs and keys. However it's not always the situation.
Reprogramming is often required to replace the battery of the remote fob has depleted. Fortunately this is a simple fix since the majority of key fobs use small clock batteries that can be replaced by inexpensive ones found in the drugstores and at home improvement stores. This will not allow you to open the trunk or start the engine, however it will stop the key fob malfunctioning.
Certain key fobs require reprogramming if they've been damaged by water, dirt or other environmental factors. A professional can help you in this scenario and get you back on the road. In this instance the expert will analyze the damage to determine which tool to reprogram the chip is needed. They will then utilize the appropriate tools to reprogram the key fob or transponder chip and test it to ensure all functions as intended.
It is important to keep in mind that reprogramming a key or fob can be extremely complicated and the wrong procedure can cause serious issues. That's why it's essential to let this job be handled by an experienced locksmith for your vehicle. This will ensure that the job is done properly and help you avoid costly mistakes in the near future.