Vehicle Key Repairs You Shouldn't Do Yourself
It can be a real discomfort when the car key stops functioning. It can be due to many different reasons.
The good news is that most keys to vehicles can be replaced without going to the dealership or paying for a locksmith. Here are some common problems and their easy solutions.
Keys Lost or Broken
You want your vehicle to run quickly following a key break. However, attempting DIY repairs can aggravate the situation. If the key is broken in the ignition cylinder you should not try to force it out, because this could damage the lock and the ignition.
Instead, call a local locksmith for assistance. They'll have the appropriate tools to get rid of the broken key without causing damage. If you'd like to do it yourself, insert needle-nosed pliers inside the cylinder to grab the broken piece. If this fails then try using a jigsaw blade that has downward-facing teeth that can latch onto and remove the broken key. Do not insert anything else into the cylinder as this can push the broken key further into the cylinder, making it more difficult to remove.
Another reason your vehicle key may not start is that the battery is dead. Many models have the lithium-ion button or coin cell battery that you can replace yourself. You can purchase replacement batteries in supermarkets, pharmacies and home improvement shops. If your fob is damaged or lost you can take it to a trusted mechanic who will replace the battery and program a new key.
If you have a modern key fob that has been damaged or lost, it's likely that you'll have to visit a dealer to get a replacement. Keys that are high-tech differ from mechanical ones in the sense that they need to be programmed by the manufacturer to function with the vehicle. In these instances the best solution is to hire an expert make a duplicate key for you. They can restore the correct cut, reassemble mechanism and then transfer the transponder chip from your old key to new keys.
You'll need to go to the dealer to request a replacement when your car key is a high tech model that has an LCD. The manufacturer needs to reprogram high-tech keys to the car's safety system. Fortunately, many dealers have the capability to do this right on the moment. They can also cut keys for you so you don't have to wait for a new one to arrive.
Dead Batteries
Batteries are a vital element in any gadget or device and can wear out easily because of long-term use or absence of charging. It's important to act quickly when your car's key fob has signs of a dying or dead battery. A dead battery will typically cause the key fob not responding to press buttons and electrical components such as the ignition in a vehicle not responding to jump-starting attempts.
The battery that is included in the car key is typically a coin-sized unit that can be replaced at home, or by a professional locksmith. Be sure to identify the kind of battery that is used in your vehicle prior to replacing it. You will often find the information on the battery in the documentation of your vehicle. Making a mistake with the replacement could cause your key fob to malfunction or not work at all, requiring costly repairs or a new purchase altogether.
A few indicators of a dead battery include the long response time when pressing key fob buttons, intermittent functionality, and dim key fob lights. A battery that shows zero voltage on an meter for voltage is likely to be dead. Physical damage to the case could be indicative of irreparable internal damage.
You can easily replace the battery of a key fob for your car at home by loosening the screw in the back of the fob with a screwdriver and sliding it open to reveal the battery compartment. Then, you can remove the old battery with an abrasive screwdriver that is small and flat and replace it with a new one in the same spot. After you're done, put the two halves of the fob back together and test it to see if the key works correctly.
Be careful not to loose the screw that holds the battery in place Make sure you keep it safe in case you don't need it again (like in the resealable plastic bag or small cup). Some vehicles require that you remove a special screw to access the battery in the key fob. If this is the case with your vehicle, consult your owner's guide or a video online to learn how to remove it.
Transponder Chip
The majority of modern car keys have transponders (also known as a "chipped-key"). This prevents hot wiring of vehicles. When you put your key transponder in the ignition, a radio signal is transmitted to the chip inside the head by an antenna (which really is an induction coil). The car's computer verifies that it is the right owner and then allows the engine to start. This is a great method of preventing your vehicle from being stolen and also adds another layer of security.
A transponder chip that's not working properly could cause problems getting your car started. If you turn the the ignition but the car won't start or turn over, this could be a sign that the transponder chip isn’t communicating with the system of your car correctly.
Transponder keys require electronic power to function and this power is supplied by a small battery inside the head of the key. Over time the battery will deplete its charge. It will not supply enough power to start your vehicle.
If you're experiencing problems with your transponder keys, it's essential to have it examined by a professional. A locksmith can diagnose your problem and fix the issue. They can also replace the battery, or reprogram the key to make it work again.
You may be able to see that a transponder key is more expensive than a standard metal key. This is due to the extra cost of making a chipped-key. It doesn't mean you need to visit the dealer every time you require a replacement key. You should research and compare different companies before choosing one. Certain companies offer replacement keys at a lower price because of their lower cost of operation. However it's important to keep in mind that a cheaper key will not necessarily be the top quality. It's possible to be better off paying a little more for a better quality key that will last longer.
Programming
Modern cars have fobs and keys that can offer more than simply unlock the doors or open the trunk. Certain keys and fobs include features that allow you to start your car from a distance and lock your doors at the push of a button. They are also protected from physical and digital attacks. As a result, the fobs and keys need to be programmed correctly, or they won't work. This task is typically reserved for experienced auto locksmiths or dealership service technicians, since it requires a thorough understanding of the security system in the vehicle and the ability to use specialized tools to ensure that the correct programming procedure is followed.
Reprogramming a fob or key is required in certain situations. The most frequent is when the key is lost or stolen or if someone purchases an older car and wants to make sure that the old keys won't work with the new vehicle. Certain vehicles require specialized tools to reprogram fobs and keys. However, this is not always the situation.
Reprogramming is often required when the battery in the remote fob is depleted. key fob repair is a straightforward fix, as most keyfobs utilize a tiny clock battery which can be found in drugstores and at home improvement stores. It won't permit you to open the trunk or start the engine, but it will prevent the key fob malfunctioning.
Certain key fobs may have to be reset after being damaged by water, dirt or other environmental elements. A professional can assist you in this situation and get you back on the road. In this case, the professional will assess damage to determine the type of reprogramming tools required. They will then utilize the appropriate tools to reprogram the transponder or key fob chip and verify that everything functions as expected.
It's important to remember that reprogramming a key or fob can be extremely complicated and if the wrong method is used, it can cause serious problems. It is best to delegate this job to a reputable auto locksmith. This will not only ensure that the job is done right, but it will also assist you in avoiding costly mistakes down the road.