Vehicle Key Repairs You Shouldn't Do Yourself
When your car key stops working, it can be a real trouble. It could be due to many different reasons.
The good news is that the majority of keys to vehicles can be replaced without visiting an auto dealer or paying a locksmith. Here are a few common issues and their simple fixes.
Keys Broken or lost
You want your vehicle to be operating quickly after a major break. However, trying DIY repairs can worsen the situation. If the key is broken in the ignition cylinder, you should not try to force it out, since this could damage the lock and the ignition.
Instead, contact a locksmith in your area. They'll have the appropriate tools to remove 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 doesn't help you, use a jigsaw with teeth facing downwards to grasp and pull the broken piece. Do not insert anything else into the cylinder, as this could push the broken key further into the cylinder, making it more difficult to get it out.
Another reason your vehicle key won't start is because the battery is dead. A lot of models have a lithium-ion coin or button cell battery that is easy to replace yourself. You can purchase replacement batteries from pharmacies, supermarkets, and home improvement stores. If your fob is damaged or lost, you can bring it to a trusted mechanic who will repair the battery and program a replacement key.
If you own a high-tech key fob that has been damaged or lost, you'll have to visit a dealer to get a replacement. In contrast to traditional mechanical keys, these models must be programmed to the vehicle by the manufacturer. In these cases the best option is to hire professionals create duplicate keys for you. They will make the appropriate cuts and reassemble the mechanism and then transfer the transponder chip from your old key to the new one.
If the key in your car is one that has high-tech features, such as digital display, you'll probably have to visit a dealership for the replacement. This is because high-tech keys need to be reprogrammed to the car's security system by the manufacturer. Most dealers have the necessary equipment to complete this task on the spot. They'll also be able to cut you a new key, so you don't have to wait for the new key to arrive in the mail.
Dead Batteries
Batteries are a vital component in any gadget or device and they are prone to get worn out by prolonged usage or the absence of regular charging. It's important to act quickly when your car's key fob has signs of a dying or dead battery. A dead battery typically means the key fob's functions aren't responding to button presses and that electrical components, like the car's starter might not respond to jump-start attempts.
A car key's battery is usually tiny and small in size. It can be replaced at home or by an expert locksmith. Before replacing a battery be sure to know which type of battery is being used by the vehicle. key repair service can often find the information on the battery or in the vehicle's documentation. If you choose the wrong battery, your key fob may malfunction or stop working altogether. This could lead to costly repairs or even a new purchase.
A dead battery can be identified by a slower response time when pressing key fob buttons, or by intermittent functionality and dimming key fob lights. A battery that displays zero voltage on a voltage meter is also likely dead, and physical damage to the case could indicate irreparable internal damage.
It is easy to replace the battery in a key fob for your car at home by loosening the screw inside the fob's back panel with the help of a screwdriver, and then sliding it open to reveal the battery compartment. The old battery can be removed using a flat-tipped screwdriver and an alternative one is inserted in the same spot. Once you're done, snap the two halves of your fob back together, and test it to verify that the key functions properly.
Be careful not to loose the screw that holds the battery in place, and be sure to keep it in a safe place if you don't want to use it again (like inside a resealable plastic bag or a small cup). Certain vehicles require you to remove a specific screw to get access to the battery inside the key fob. If this is the case with your vehicle, consult the owner's manual or an online tutorial video to determine how to remove it safely.
Transponder Chip
The majority of modern car keys come with transponder chips (also called"chipped key") "chipped key"). This prevents the ignition from being hot wired. When you connect your transponder keys into the ignition an antenna (which is really just an induction coil) transmits a radio signal with an individual code to the chip inside the head of the key. The computer in the car confirms that you are the right owner, and then allows the engine to start. This is a great method to safeguard your vehicle and add an additional layer of security.
One of the most obvious signs that the chip that transponders isn't functioning correctly is having trouble starting your car. If you turn the key in the ignition but the car won't start or turn over, it could be a sign that the transponder chip isn't communicating with the vehicle's system properly.
A transponder key requires electronic power to function and that power is supplied by a small battery within the head of the key. In time, that battery will run out of charge and stop supplying the required power to allow your car to start.
If you're experiencing problems with your transponder keys, it's important to have it checked out by an expert. A locksmith can diagnose your problem and replace the battery, or reprogram the key to make it function again.
You may have noticed that a transponder is more expensive than a regular metal key. This is because of the extra manufacturing costs in the production of a chipped key. While this doesn't mean that you shouldn't go to your local dealer when buying keys, you do need to shop around and compare prices before selecting a company. You should also be aware that certain companies can provide cheaper replacement keys due to their lower overhead costs. It is important to keep in mind that a less expensive replacement key might not be of the highest quality. It's possible to be better off paying a little more for a premium key that will last longer.
Programming
Modern cars have fobs and keys that do more than just unlock the doors and open the trunk. Certain models let you start your car from a distance, lock the doors with the touch of a button, and secure them against physical and virtual attacks. As a result, the fobs and keys need to be programmed correctly or they will not function. This task is typically reserved for skilled 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 programming process is done right.
There are several situations when reprogramming a key or fob might be required. The most common reason is that the need to reprogramme is when a key or fob is lost or stolen or when one buys a used car and wants to ensure that the keys that were previously used won't work in the car. Certain vehicles require special tools to reprogram keys and fobs. However, this is not always the case.
A depleted battery on the remote key fob is another situation where reprogramming may be necessary. This is a straightforward fix, since most keyfobs have a small clock batteries that can be found at home improvement and drugstores. Although this won't restore your ability to open your trunk or start the engine, it will stop the key fob from malfunctioning completely.
Some key fobs may need to be reprogrammed after being damaged by dirt, water or other environmental factors. A professional can assist you in this case and get you back on the road. In this instance the professional will evaluate the damage to determine what type of tool to reprogram the chip is needed. They will then employ the appropriate tools to reprogram the key fob or transponder chip and test it to make sure all functions as intended.
Remember that reprogramming an electronic key or fob is a complicated procedure and if done incorrectly, could cause serious problems. It is recommended to leave this job to a reputable auto locksmith. This will ensure that the job will be done correctly and help you avoid costly mistakes in the future.