5 Tips For Car Keys Repairs

Modern car keys are quite complex, and require professional repair when they become damaged. This article will provide 5 tips to keep your car key in good condition.

Sometimes, issues with key fobs or remote controls can be resolved by replacing the battery. In some cases it is necessary to reprogramme the device. Refer to the owner's manual of your device or a professional for more specific instructions.

Battery Replacement

A lot of modern cars have remote key fobs that incorporate remote start and keyless entry features, as well as traditional keys made of metal. These keys are powered with small batteries which eventually run out and must be replaced. The process is simple and can easily be done by any auto accessory store that has the correct battery type for your vehicle model.

Check the owner's manual for your vehicle to determine the type of battery is used. Once you've got this information, visit your local automotive parts store and purchase an alternative. In most cases, you can get the same battery at a discount or even free if you take advantage of a special promotion.

If you take care to not push anything, you can pry off two seams using a flat-head screws or your fingernail. Locate the battery compartment. It will either be inserted, or have a plus/minus symbol embossed. Place the new battery in carefully and make sure it is oriented exactly the same way as the old one.

Replace the circuit board once the battery has been installed. The two halves back together. Once it's all reassembled test the buttons to ensure that everything works as intended. The key's ID fob won't change in the event that the battery is changed and the key fob won't need to be reprogrammed after the repair. This is good news for those who want to save money by not having to go to a locksmith or dealer.

Repairing the ignition Cylinder

Modern key ignition systems for cars require an exact sequence of movements before the engine can start. If something interrupts that process, for instance a broken key cylinder, it can cause your car to start with no power. Although it's possible to repair a key cylinder, it's not a simple process. The ignition is a delicate system that is designed to work with a specific key and this process requires specialized tools, careful oiling, and a thorough understanding of how it's supposed to function.

First, check whether the ignition will turn in the accessory position, and also if the key will insert properly. This will help you identify the issue. If you cannot rotate the cylinder in any direction, check the owner's manual or call a locksmith for help with the ignition.

If the cylinder will rotate in the accessory position, you can make use of a screwdriver to press the small anti-rotation switch at the base of the cylinder. Then, you can turn the cylinder until the slot line and tabs are up, then slide it out of its casing. If the cylinder doesn't move at all, or is stuck in a dead end, you may need to gently tap it with an hammer or drill. However, do it cautiously, as drilling or rapping the cylinder could damage the steering column.


The new ignition is installed after the old one has been removed. After that, you'll need to program the new cylinder to ensure that it matches the key in terms of sequence and orientation. It is also necessary to remove the tumblers from cylinder and examine them. You'll also have to replace any tumblers that are worn out.

After the cylinder is replaced After the cylinder is replaced, you'll have to attach the dashboard and steering column covers in the correct order. Be sure to carefully reattach the covers without affecting the wiring, as it's possible to loosen the wires and cause disruption to vital electronic components. It's also important to reattach the negative battery cable, and to test your new ignition.

Key Programming

Modern car keys are fitted with an electronic chip that communicates with the vehicle. The chip and the car must "know each other" before the key can start the engine.

A locksmith who has experience with many different types of cars can reprogram a key quickly. They can also assist you in the event that your car's lock has become damaged.

Most car locksmiths will tell you that the process can take as little as one minute if the steps are followed correctly. OBD2 or EEPROM programming may take a little longer, as your locksmith will need to remove specific modules from the car to access the passcode and key data. This kind of procedure should be left to professionals with extensive knowledge of circuit boards and electronic components, thus reducing the risk of data corruption.

It's not uncommon for people to lose their car keys, leave them in the trunk of their vehicle or leave them at home after putting groceries in the back seat. In these scenarios, you can often be stranded on the side of the road without any way to get home or get to your destination. Locksmiths can program a spare key to your vehicle so you can drive around again.

The lock may be compromised or the key could stop working due to wear and tear. If mobile key repair on your car key no longer fit into the lock, you need to consider replacing the key.

A lot of people try to reprogramme their own car keys however it is recommended to have a professional do this work for you instead. These DIY methods can cause a corruption of the information on your car key and cause it to malfunction or worse harm to your security system. A professional is less likely to make a mistake which could cost you thousands of dollars in the future.

Broken Key Removal

If the car key breaks inside the cylinder of ignition, you will need to remove the broken piece. It is not possible to drive the vehicle until the broken key is removed. It is recommended to hire a professional to complete this task, as the incorrect use of lubricants or extraction tools can damage the ignition. However, if you're determined to fix your broken car key at home first there are a few methods that can help.

Utilizing a pair or needle-nose pliers that have extra-long tips is a great method to grasp the end of the key that is still protruding from the ignition. You can also give your pliers a boost by coating the business end of them with an adhesive substance like super glue, melted tallow, or putty. The pliers can then grasp the piece of key and remove it from the cylinder.

A flexible, thin wire can be used to slide along the broken key and then remove it from the lock. Paperclips are a good tool for this, but bend the ends slightly so that the fragment of the key is held by the larger surface area.

Mini hacksaw blades can be used to repair broken keys. But, they should be thin and compact to fit in the small openings of ignition cylinders. They can be found at hardware stores as well as the auto parts sections of large box retailers.

Spraying lubricant into the keyhole may be helpful. It may loosen up the piece that is stuck and make it easier to remove. Don't try to force a broken car key out, as this can cause more damage to the key and possibly the ignition. It is risky and difficult to fix a car key that's been bent or broken in half. Keep an extra key in a secure location at all times.