25 Unexpected Facts About Vehicle Key Repairs
Vehicle Key Repairs You Shouldn't Do Yourself
If your car's ignition key stops working, it can be a real problem. It could be caused by various reasons.
It's good to know that you can fix the majority of keys to your vehicle without having to go to an auto dealer or pay a locksmith. Here are some typical issues and their simple fixes.
Keys Broken or lost
A car key repair is an emotional experience It is a stressful time, and you need to get your car running again quickly. However, trying DIY repairs can worsen the situation. For instance, if the key is broken inside the ignition cylinder you should avoid trying to force it out since it could damage the lock or ignition.
Instead, call a local locksmith to get help. They will have the right tools to take out the broken key without causing damage. If key repairs 'd like to tackle it yourself, insert needle-nosed pliers into the cylinder and grab the broken piece. If this fails you can try a jigsaw blade that has downward-facing teeth that can latch onto and take the broken key. Do not try to insert anything else into the cylinder as doing so could push the key even further in and make it even more difficult to get it out.
Another reason your vehicle key won't start is because the battery is dead. Many models have an 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 key has been damaged or lost, take it into a reputable auto technician to swap out the battery and create the new key.
If you have a high-tech key fob that is damaged or lost, it's likely you'll need to visit a dealer for an alternative. These keys are different from mechanical ones in that they require programming by the manufacturer to function with the vehicle. In these instances the best solution is to hire professionals create duplicate keys for you. They can make the right cut, reassemble mechanism and then transfer the transponder chip from your original key to a new key.
If the key in your car is a high-tech model with an electronic display, you'll likely have to visit a dealership to get a replacement. This is because high-tech keys must be reprogrammed to the car's security system by the manufacturer. Most dealers have the necessary equipment for this job on-site. They can also cut keys for you so that you don't have to wait for a new one to arrive.
Dead Batteries
Batteries are an essential part in any gadget or device and they are prone to get worn out by prolonged use or a lack of regular charging. It's important to act quickly when your car's key fob has signs of a dead or dying battery. A dead battery typically indicates that the key fob's functions aren't responding to button presses and that electrical components, like the starter in your vehicle may not respond to jump-start efforts.
A car key's battery is usually a small coin-sized model that can be replaced at home or by a professional locksmith. Before replacing a battery make sure to identify which kind of battery is being used by the vehicle. You will often find the information on the battery or in the documentation of your vehicle. If you select the wrong battery key fob, it could fail or stop working completely. This can lead to costly repairs or even the need to purchase a new one.
The signs of a dead battery include an extended response time when pressing the key fob buttons, intermittent functionality and dim lights on the key fob. A battery that shows zero voltage on a voltmeter may be likely to be dead. Damage to the battery's casing could be a sign of irreparable damage inside.
The battery can be easily replaced in a car fob by unloosening an underlying screw on the back of the fob with an screwdriver and then sliding the panel open to reveal the compartment. Then, you can remove the old battery using the help of a small screwdriver with a flat tip and then insert a new one in the same place. Once you're done, snap the two halves of the fob back together, and test it to determine if the key works properly.
Be cautious not to loose the screw that holds the battery in place, and be sure to keep it safe in case you don't require it again (like inside an resealable plastic bag, or small cup). Some models of vehicles have special screws that need to be removed to access the key fob's battery. If this is the case with your vehicle, you can consult your owner's guide or an online video to learn how you can safely remove it.
Transponder Chip
The majority of modern car keys have a transponder (also known as a "chipped-key"). The reason is to prevent vehicles from being hot wired. When you insert your key transponder into the ignition the radio signal is sent to the chip in the head by an antenna (which really is an induction coil). The computer in the car verifies that it is the right owner and then allows the engine to start. This is an effective way to prevent your vehicle from being stolen and adds another layer of security.
One of the most obvious signs that the transponder chip isn't functioning properly is trouble starting your vehicle. If your key turns in the ignition, but the engine doesn't turn over or start it could be because the chip isn't communicating with your car's system properly.
A transponder key requires electronic power to function, and that power is provided via a tiny battery in the head of the key. As time passes, the battery will deplete its charge and cease to provide the necessary power to allow your car to start.
It's essential to check your transponder key by a professional if it isn't functioning properly. A locksmith expert can identify the issue and either replace the battery or reprogram your key so it can work correctly again.
You might be able to see that a transponder key is more expensive than a regular metal key. This is because of the extra manufacturing costs involved in making a key with a chip. While this doesn't mean that you shouldn't go to your local dealer when buying new keys, you do need to shop around and compare prices before selecting a firm. Be aware that some companies are able to offer lower replacement keys due to their lower cost of operations. However it's important to keep in mind that a key that is cheaper will not necessarily be the top quality. It could be worth paying a bit more to get a key more durable and will last longer.
Programming
Modern cars are equipped with keys and fobs that offer more than just unlock the doors or open the trunk. Certain models allow you to start your car remotely and also lock the doors with the push of the button, and also protect them against both physical and digital attacks. These keys and fobs need to be programmed correctly or they will not work. This job is typically reserved for auto locksmiths with experience or dealership service technicians, since it requires a thorough understanding of the vehicle's security system and the ability to utilize specialized tools to ensure that the program is completed correctly.
Reprogramming a fob or key is required in certain cases. Most often, the need to reprogramme is when keys or fobs are lost or stolen or when you purchase a used vehicle and needs to ensure that the keys that were previously used won't work in the vehicle. Some brands of vehicles require special tools to reprogram new fobs and keys, but this isn't always an absolute requirement in all instances.
Reprogramming is often required if the battery in the remote fob has depleted. This is a straightforward fix, as most keyfobs utilize a tiny clock battery that can be found in drugstores and at home improvement stores. This won't allow you to open the trunk or start the engine but it will prevent the key fob from malfunctioning.
Certain key fobs require reprogramming when they've been damaged by water, dirt or other environmental factors. This is where a professional can truly shine and assist you to get back on the road. In this scenario, the professional will assess damage to determine the type of reprogramming equipment required. The professional will use the right tools to reprogram the transponder key fob, and then test it so that everything works according to plan.
It's important to remember that reprogramming keys or fob can be extremely complicated and if the wrong method is used, it can result in serious problems. It is best to delegate this job to a reputable auto locksmith. This will not only ensure that the job is completed correctly, but it will also assist you in avoiding costly mistakes down the road.
