How to Repair Car Keys
A car key that isn't working properly can cause chaos in your day, and you'll need to be aware of how to fix it fast. Check if your bumper-tobumper warranty or insurance covers it.
With traditional keys that don't feature a chip it's as easy as making a exact duplicate. An associate will select the correct key blank and trace its contours using an on-site key cutting machine.
Keys that are worn
Your car keys can become worn out from frequent use. This could cause them to cease to function or even get stuck in your ignition. Replace your worn-out key before the issue gets worse.
If you need to shake or jiggle your key to turn it, it's worn and should be replaced. You should also examine the ignition and cylinders of your keys for debris and dirt on a regular basis. It is important to remove your keys from the ignition when you notice they are getting worn out. Clean them with a dry, clean cloth. You can also purchase a lubricant based on graphite for use on metals to help reduce friction.
If you try to jiggle your key but it doesn't turn, it could be that the cutting edges are getting dull or damaged. This could cause the grooves on the keys to be distorted and it won't fit in your lock or ignition. It is important that you seek out a locksmith as soon as this happens to avoid further damage.
A key that wears out will often begin to scratch the internal surfaces. This can cause the key to stop functioning, or even break inside the lock cylinder. In this case, you will have to visit a local locksmith to get a new key.
A damaged key could also be caused by being dropped or accidentally struck. Remove anything you don't need from your keychain in order to slow the rate of wear. It is essential to take care of your keychain, as heavy keys wear out the internal mechanisms more quickly.
Honda keys are more prone to wear out than other keys for cars because they utilize a different wafer system. The tip of the Honda keys has a tiny triangular nib that sticks out into the lock. This tiny nib is susceptible to wear and tear over time and the wear is focused only the point. When the key is pulled into the lock and out, it grinds down the nib until it is no longer usable.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
It's a real discomfort when you press the key fob button but nothing occurs. The remote locking system in your car relies on the battery in the keyfob to transmit signals to receivers within the vehicle. When that battery dies it can leave you without a home. It's easy to replace. Here's how:
If your device is lagging or you need to press the button a few times before it responds, you need an upgrade to the battery. You can purchase the replacement battery from any auto parts store or big-box retailer as well as in some hardware stores. The majority of key fobs can work with a CR2032 battery. Refer to the owner's manual or the manufacturer's site for more details.
Find a slot or notch along the seam which separates the top from bottom half of your key fob. Also, you should find an appropriate screwdriver or coin that can fit into the slot and can be used to open the key fob and access the circuit board and buttons. Once you have removed the battery that was in use, replace it with a new one that has the same + and - position as the previous one (the plus side is typically facing towards the buttons). Reassemble the fob, ensuring that everything snaps into place. Check that all the buttons on the key fob work.
If you still can't get your vehicle to start after changing the battery, it may be something more serious. You may have erroneously deprogrammed the onboard computer of your car by pressing certain buttons incorrectly. You'll need to refer to the manual for your vehicle to learn how you can re-program your key fob to begin your vehicle.
Keep a spare battery for your key fob in case of emergency so that you are not stuck if the original one fails. If you aren't able to replace the battery in your key fob it is likely that your car has an additional key that is mechanical in the car that you can use to unlock manually and lock your doors.
Broken Keys
It's frustrating to find yourself in a position in which your car key is broken off inside the ignition lock. Trying to forcefully remove a broken car key from the ignition could cause more damage, since it could cause more severe damage. Contacting a locksmith to take out the damaged key and replace it is the best solution to this issue.
If your car keys are able to open the door but not start the car, this could be an indication that the ignition cylinder in your car is getting close to its end. It's the same issue that can cause keys to stop working after it has been through excessive sweat or being used for a long time. If this is the case then reset your keys according to the instructions contained in your owner's manual.
You can also go to your dealer and have a new key made. It can be expensive and not all models work. If you choose to do this, make sure you bring your VIN number to the shop to make sure that the key cuts are compatible.
A third option is to try to put the right size between the two ends of your key. You'll have a tougher time with plastic keys. You can also try super glue to connect the two components of the key, but this is a risky option because it could damage your ignition.
You can also buy an extractor for keys which is a specific tool. These tools have small hooks that are designed to slide into the keyway and grip the broken piece of metal. These tools are available in the auto section of big box stores as well as hardware stores. Be aware that any of these methods can actually push the damaged key further into the lock. It is best to call a locksmith instead.
Locked Out
It's more than just a hassle to be locked out of your vehicle. It can be a risk, especially if you have children in the vehicle. Fortunately, there are a variety of solutions to this problem and ways to avoid it happening in the first place. Plan ahead. This could involve signing up for roadside assistance or subscribing to an automaker's app or even putting the spare key in your home, office or with trusted friends and family. You can also purchase new vehicles that have excellent safety features, such as the latest inventory at Longo Toyota, and make sure that it comes with an additional key.
A common reason that keys to your car stop working is that the batteries are dying. If your key fob requires multiple presses of the buttons to unlock or start the car then it's time to replace the batteries. You can use a keyfob repair kit, or engage a locksmith for it.
Another reason why your car keys may stop functioning is because they've been damaged. This can be the result of a rough use or ageing. Over time the grooves on keys might wear out and not correspond to the depth of lock or ignition.
The keyhole could be blocked by dirt or other impurities. This could result in the key not to fit. This can also be due to a broken lock, which may wear down over time or even break if a lot of pressure is applied when turning the key. Contact a locksmith instead of messing around with the lock, since you can cause further damage.
It's not uncommon to pick the wrong set when in the rush. key fob repair to remember that every key fob is unique and has a code that can only be used only with a specific car. If you are unable to locate your original car keys it's likely that they're in your home or at the office, but it's also quite likely that someone has stolen the keys. If this is the case, you'll be required to contact your local auto dealer or authorised service centre for assistance.