Vehicle Key Repairs You Shouldn't Do Yourself
It can be a huge pain when your car key stops working. This could be due to a variety of reasons.
It's good to be aware that you can repair the majority of car keys without having to go to an auto dealer or pay locksmith. Here are some common problems and their easy solutions.
Keys Lost or Broken
You want your car to be running quickly after a major break. However, attempting DIY repairs can worsen the situation. If the key breaks in the ignition cylinder you should not attempt to force it out since it could damage the lock and the ignition.
Contact a local locksmith instead. They'll have the appropriate tools to get rid of the broken key without causing damage. If you're determined to do it yourself, use needle-nose pliers to insert into the cylinder and then grab the broken piece of key. If this doesn't work you can try an jigsaw with downward-facing teeth that can latch onto and remove the broken key. Do not try to insert anything else into the cylinder, as doing so will push the key even further in and make it more difficult to get it out.
The battery might be dead. Many models have a lithium-ion coin or button cell battery that you can replace yourself. You can buy replacement batteries in supermarkets, pharmacies and home improvement shops. If your fob is damaged or lost, take it into an experienced auto technician who can replace the battery and program a new key.
If your key fob is a high-tech model that has been damaged or lost, you'll likely need to visit the dealer to get a replacement. Unlike traditional mechanical keys, these types need to be programmed to the vehicle by the manufacturer. In these instances, it is best to hire a professional to create duplicate keys. They will be able to restore the original cut, reassemble mechanism and then transfer the transponder chip from the original key to the new key.
You'll have to visit the dealer for a replacement if your car key is a high-tech model with an LCD. car key repair shop near me is because high-tech keys have to be reprogrammed to the car's security system by the manufacturer. Most dealers have the necessary equipment for this job on-site. They'll also cut you a replacement key, meaning you don't have to wait for a new one to arrive in the mail.
Dead Batteries
Batteries are a vital component in any device or gadget, and they can easily wear out due to prolonged use or a lack of regular charging. It is imperative to act swiftly in the event that your car's key fob has indications of a dead or dying battery. A dead battery usually means the remote's key fob functions will not respond to button presses and that electrical components such as a vehicle's starter may not respond to jump-start attempts.
The battery in the car key is usually small enough to be replaced at home or by an expert locksmith. Be sure to determine the kind of battery that is used in your vehicle before replacing it. You can usually find this information on the battery or in the documentation for your vehicle. Using an incorrect replacement can cause your key fob to malfunction or stop working in any way, requiring costly repairs or a new purchase altogether.
A dead battery can be identified by a slower response time when pressing key fob buttons, or by intermittent functionality or dimming key fob lights. A battery that displays zero voltage on a voltage meter is also likely dead, and physical damage to the battery's case could indicate irreparable internal damage.
The battery can be easily substituted in a car fob by loosening the screw on the back of the fob using the help of a screwdriver, then sliding the panel open to reveal the compartment. You can then remove the battery that was in place using a small flat-tipped screwdriver and then insert a new one in the same location. When you're done, snap the two halves of the fob back together, and test it to determine if the key is working correctly.
Keep the screw that holds the key fob battery in place. Keep it safe when you will not use it for a while. Certain models of vehicles come with specific screws that need to be removed in order to access the key fob's battery. If this is the case for your vehicle, consult the owner's manual or an online video tutorial to figure out the best method to remove it safely.
Transponder Chip
Most modern car keys come with a transponder chip (also known as a "chipped key"). The reason for this is to keep vehicles from becoming hot wired. When car key remote repair near me insert your transponder key into the ignition the antenna (which is actually an induction coil) transmits radio signals with a unique code to the chip inside the head of the key. The car's computer confirms that the transmission comes from the right owner and allows your engine to begin. This is a great method to protect your vehicle and add an additional layer of security.
One of the primary indicators that the chip that transponders isn't functioning properly is trouble starting your vehicle. If you turn the the ignition but the car doesn't start or turn over, this could be a sign that the transponder chip hasn't been communicating with the vehicle's system correctly.
A transponder requires power from the electronic to function and this power is supplied by a small internal battery. As time passes, the battery will run out of charge and stop supplying the required power to allow your car to start.
If you're having problems with your transponder key it's important to have it checked out by an expert. A locksmith can diagnose your issue and replace the battery, or reprogram the key to make it work again.
You may observe that a transponder-type key is more expensive than a standard 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 dealership each time you require a replacement key. You should research and compare different companies before choosing one. Be aware that some companies are able to provide cheaper replacement keys because of their lower cost of operations. However, it's important to remember that a cheaper key will not necessarily be the highest quality. You may be better off paying more for a higher quality key that's guaranteed to last longer.
Programming
Modern cars come with keys and fobs which do more than just unlock the doors and open the trunk. Certain keys and fobs come with features that let you start your car from a distance and lock the doors at the press of one button. They are also protected against digital and physical attacks. In turn, these keys and fobs have to be programmed correctly or they won't work. This job is typically reserved for skilled auto locksmiths or dealership service technicians since it requires a thorough understanding of the vehicle's security system and the ability to use specialized tools to ensure the programming process is done right.
There are a variety of situations when reprogramming a key or fob might be required. The most frequent is when keys are stolen or lost or if someone buys an older car and wants to make sure that the old keys won't work in the new car. Some brands of vehicles require special coding tools to reprogram new keys and fobs, however, this isn't required in all situations.
Reprogramming may be required to replace the battery of the remote fob is depleted. This is a straightforward fix, since most keyfobs have a small clock battery that can be found in home improvement and drugstores. This won't allow you to open the trunk or start the engine, but it will stop the key fob from malfunctioning.
Certain key fobs might need to be reset after being damaged by water, dirt or other environmental elements. A professional can assist you in this case and get you back on the road. In this instance the professional will examine damage to determine the type of reprogramming equipment required. They will then use the proper tools to reprogram the transponder or key fob chip and verify that all functions as intended.
Be aware that reprogramming an electronic fob or key is a complicated process and the wrong method can cause serious issues. That's why it's essential to let this job be handled by a trusted automotive locksmith. This will ensure that the task will be done right and will allow you to avoid costly mistakes in the near future.