Vehicle Key Repairs You Shouldn't Do Yourself
It can be a major discomfort when the car keys stop working. It could be due to many reasons.
The good news is that most keys to vehicles can be repaired without visiting a dealership or paying for a locksmith. Here are some common problems and their easy solutions.
Keys Lost or Broken
A car key repair is a stressful experience, and you want to get your car back on the road immediately. DIY repairs can exacerbate the issue. For example, if the key breaks inside the ignition cylinder, you should not try to force it out since this can cause damage to the lock and the ignition.
Instead, contact a locksmith in your area. They'll have the right tools to take out your broken key without causing further damage. If you want to do it yourself, put needle-nosed pliers into the cylinder to grab the broken piece. If this doesn't work, you can try using a jigsaw with teeth that are facing downwards to grab and take the broken piece. Do not insert anything else into the cylinder, as this could push the broken key even further into the cylinder and make it harder to remove.
Another reason your vehicle key may not start is because the battery is dead. Many models have a lithium-ion coin or button cell battery that you can easily replace yourself. You can buy batteries for replacement in pharmacies, supermarkets and home improvement stores. If your fob is damaged or missing or damaged, you can take it to a reputable mechanic who will replace the battery and program a new key.
If you have a modern key fob that is damaged or lost, it's likely you will need to go to the dealer to get an exchange. Keys that are high-tech differ from mechanical keys in that they need to be programmed by the manufacturer to function with the vehicle. In these instances the best solution is to have an expert make duplicate keys for you. They can make the right cut, reassemble the mechanism, and transfer the transponder chip of your original key to a new keys.
If your car's key is a high-tech model with an electronic display, you'll likely have to visit a dealership for an alternative. The manufacturer needs to reprogram high-tech keys into the vehicle's security system. Most dealers have the necessary equipment for this job on the spot. They can also cut keys for you so you don't have to wait for a new one to be delivered.
Dead Batteries
Batteries are a vital element in any gadget or device, and they can degrade quickly from prolonged use or lack of charging. It's important to act quickly in the event that your car's key fob is showing signs of a dead or dying battery. A dead battery usually means the remote's key fob functions aren't responding to press-button presses, and electrical components like a vehicle's starter may not respond to jump-start efforts.
The battery in a car key is usually an sized coin that can be replaced at home or by an expert locksmith. Make sure you know the kind of battery that is used in your vehicle before replacing it. You can often find the information on the battery or in your vehicle's documentation. If you choose the wrong battery key fob, it could fail or cease to function completely. car keys repairs near me can lead to costly repairs or even the need to purchase a new one.
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 voltmeter is likely to be dead. Damage to the battery's enclosure could indicate irreparable damage inside.
The battery can be replaced in the car fob by loosing the screw on the back of the fob using an screwdriver and then sliding the panel open to reveal the compartment. The old battery can be removed using an angled screwdriver and then an alternative one is inserted in the same location. Snap the two parts of the key fob when you're finished. Test it to ensure that the key functions correctly.
Be careful not to loose the screw that holds the battery in place Be sure to keep it safe in case you don't want to use it again (like in an resealable plastic bag, or small cup). Certain vehicles require you to remove a special screw to gain access to the battery on the key fob. If this is the case for your vehicle, consult your owner's manual, or an online tutorial video for guidance on how to remove it safely.
Transponder Chip
The majority of modern car keys include transponders (also called a "chipped-key"). The reason for this is to help stop vehicles from becoming hot wired. When you insert your transponder key into the ignition, an antenna (which is actually an induction coil) transmits a radio signal with an individual code to the chip inside the key's head. The computer in the car confirms that you are the right owner and then allows the engine to start. This is a reliable way to prevent your vehicle from being stolen and adds another layer of security.
A transponder chip that isn't functioning properly could cause issues starting your car. If you turn the key in the ignition but your car won't begin or turn over, this could be a sign that the transponder chip hasn't been communicating with the system of your car properly.
A transponder key needs electronic power to function, and that power is provided via a tiny battery in the head of the key. In time, that battery will run out of charge and stop supplying the necessary power to allow your car to start.
If you're having problems with your transponder key, it's essential to have it examined by an expert. A professional locksmith can diagnose the issue and either replace the battery or reprogram your key so that it functions in a way that is functional again.
You might observe that a transponder-type key is more expensive than a regular metal key. This is due to the extra costs involved in manufacturing a chipped key. This doesn't mean that you need to visit the dealer every time you require a new key. It is best to look around and compare companies before selecting one. Some companies can provide keys replacement at a lower price because of their lower overhead. However it's important to keep in mind that a key that is cheaper isn't always the highest quality. You may be better off paying a little more for a premium key that will last longer.
Programming
Modern cars come with fobs and keys that allow you to unlock the doors and open the trunk. Certain models allow you to start your car from a distance and also lock the doors with the press of a button, and secure them from physical and virtual attacks. These keys and fobs must be programmed correctly, otherwise they won't work. This task is usually reserved for auto technicians with experience or locksmiths, as it requires a thorough understanding of the vehicle's safety system and the use of tools that are specifically designed for.
There are a variety of scenarios in which reprogramming of keys or fobs could be necessary. The most frequent is when the key is stolen or lost or if someone buys an used car and wishes to ensure that the old keys won't work with the new car. Certain vehicles require special tools to reprogram keys and fobs. However it's not always the case.
A battery that is depleted in the remote key fob is a different scenario where reprogramming could be necessary. This is a simple fix as most keyfobs use small clock batteries which can be found in drugstores and home improvement stores. It won't permit you to open the trunk or start the engine, but it will prevent the key fob malfunctioning.
Some key fobs will require reprogramming in the event that they've been damaged due to dirt, water or other environmental elements. This is where a professional will really shine and help you get back on the road. In this instance, the professional will assess the damage to determine which reprogramming tool is required. They will then employ the appropriate tools to reprogram the transponder or key fob chip and verify that all functions as intended.
Reprogramming an electronic fob or key is a difficult procedure and if done incorrectly, could cause serious problems. It's best to leave this job to a reputable auto locksmith. This will not only ensure that the job is done properly, but will also save you from costly mistakes down the road.