Vehicle Key Repairs You Shouldn't Do Yourself
When your car key stops working, it can be a major trouble. It could be due to many different reasons.
The positive side is that the majority of vehicle keys can be fixed without having to visit the dealership or paying for locksmith. Here are a few common problems and the simple solutions.
Keys Lost or Broken
You want your vehicle to be operating quickly after a major break. However, attempting DIY repairs could exacerbate the situation. If the key breaks in the ignition cylinder you should not attempt to force it out as it could damage the lock and ignition.
Find a local locksmith. They will have the right tools to take out the broken key without causing damage. If you want to do it by yourself, insert needle-nosed pliers inside the cylinder and grab the broken piece. If this doesn't help you, try using a jigsaw with teeth that face downwards to grab and take the broken piece. Never insert anything else in the cylinder as this can push the broken key further into the cylinder, making it harder to remove.
The battery could be dead. You can easily replace the lithium-ion button or coin cell batteries on a variety of models. You can buy 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 high-tech key fob that is damaged or lost, it's likely that you'll need to visit a dealer to get an alternative. These keys are different from mechanical keys in that they require programming by the manufacturer in order to work with the vehicle. In these situations, it is best to hire a professional to create a duplicate key. They can make the right cuts, reassemble the mechanism, and transfer the transponder chip of your old key to the new.
You'll need to go to the dealer to request a replacement when your car key is a high tech model that has a display. This is because high-tech keys have to be reprogrammed to the vehicle's security system by the manufacturer. Luckily, most dealers have the capability to perform this task on the moment. They can also cut keys for you so you don't need 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 due to prolonged use or lack of charging. If your car key fob is showing indications of a dead battery it's important to fix the issue quickly. A dead battery usually means the key fob's functions will not respond to button presses and that electrical components like the starter in your vehicle may not be responsive to jump-starting efforts.
The battery of a car key is typically a small coin-sized model that can be replaced at home or by an expert locksmith. Before replacing a battery ensure that you know what type of battery is being used by the vehicle. You will find this information on the battery or in the manual for your vehicle. If you choose to replace the battery incorrectly, it could cause your key fob to malfunction or not function 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 and dimming key fob lights. A battery that registers zero voltage on an meter for voltage is likely dead, and physical damage to the battery case could indicate irreparable internal damage.
The battery can be replaced in a car fob by loosening the screw on the back panel of the fob with a screwdriver, and sliding the panel open to reveal the compartment. Then, you can remove the battery that was in place using the help of a small screwdriver with a flat tip, and insert a fresh one in the same place. You can snap the two halves of the key fob when you're finished. Check it out to make sure the key works correctly.
Be cautious not to loose the screw that holds the battery in place Be sure to keep it in a safe place if you don't need it again (like inside an resealable plastic bag, or small cup). Certain vehicles require you to remove a specific screw to access the battery in the key fob. If this is the case for your vehicle, consult the owner's manual or an online tutorial video for guidance on the best method to remove it safely.
Transponder Chip
Most modern car keys are fitted with a transponder chip (also known as a "chipped key"). This prevents hot wiring of vehicles. When you insert your key transponder into the ignition the radio signal is sent to the chip in the head via an antenna (which really is an induction coil). The car's computer checks to ensure that the key is the right owner, and then allows the engine to start. This is a great method to protect your vehicle and add an extra layer of security.
One of the most obvious signs that a transponder chip isn't working properly is the inability to start 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 isn’t communicating with the system of your car correctly.
A transponder key needs electronic power in order to function, and that power is provided by a small battery within the head of the key. As time passes, the battery will deplete its charge and cease to provide the required power to allow your car to start.
It's essential to have your transponder key checked by an expert if it isn't functioning correctly. A locksmith can diagnose your issue and replace the battery, or reprogram the key to make it function again.
car key repair service may have noticed that a transponder is more expensive than a regular metal key. This is due to the higher costs of manufacturing a chipped-key. While this doesn't mean that you should always go through your dealership when getting a new key but you must look through and compare prices before selecting a firm. It is important to be aware that some companies are able to offer lower replacement keys because of their lower overhead costs. It's important to bear in mind that a less expensive replacement key might not be of top quality. It may be worth paying more to get a key more durable and will last longer.
Programming
Modern cars have fobs and keys that do more than just unlock the doors and open the trunk. Certain keys and fobs include features that let you start your car from a distance and lock the doors at the push of one button. They are also protected against digital and physical attacks. These keys and fobs must be programmed correctly, or they will not work. This job is typically reserved for skilled auto technicians or locksmiths, as it requires an in-depth knowledge of the vehicle's security system and the use of specific tools.
Reprogramming a fob or a key is required in a handful of cases. The most common reason is that reprogramming is required when keys or fobs are lost or stolen or when someone purchases a used vehicle and needs to ensure that the keys that were previously used won't work in the car. Some brands of vehicles require special coding tools to reprogram new fobs and keys however, this isn't required in all situations.
Reprogramming may be required when the battery in the remote fob has depleted. Fortunately, this is an easy fix as most key fobs have small clock batteries that can be replaced by low-cost ones available at drugstores and home improvement stores. Although this won't restore your ability to open your trunk or start the engine, it will stop the key fob from failing altogether.
Certain key fobs need to be reprogrammed in the event that they've been damaged due to water, dirt or other environmental elements. This is where a professional will really shine and help you get back on the road. In this situation the expert will analyze the damage to determine what type of reprogramming tool is required. They will then employ the appropriate tools to reprogram the key fob or transponder chip and verify that everything functions as expected.
It is important to keep in mind that reprogramming a key fob can be a very difficult task and if the wrong method is used, it can cause serious problems. It is recommended to leave the task to a reputable locksmith for your vehicle. This will not only guarantee that the job is done right, but it can also assist you in avoiding costly mistakes down the road.