How to Repair Car Keys
You need to know what you should do when your car key is damaged. Make sure that your bumper-to-bumper warranty or insurance will cover it.
Making copies of traditional keys without a chip is as easy as creating an exact replica. A key cutting machine can be used to trace the contours of the blank key.
Broken Out Keys
You use your car keys frequently, and they can get worn down by regular wear and tear. This can cause them stop working or become stuck in your ignition. Replace the worn-out key before the issue gets worse.
The need to jiggle your keys or shake it to make it turn is an indication that it is worn out and must be replaced. It is also crucial to examine the cylinders of your keys in your ignition and doors regularly for dirt and debris. If you observe that they are becoming worn down it is essential to remove the keys from the ignition and clean them with dry cloth. You can also purchase a lubricant based on graphite to apply to metals to decrease friction.
If you attempt to turn your key, but it does not turn the cutting edges could be damaged or dull. This can cause the grooves to be distorted and the key will not fit in the lock or ignition. It is crucial to visit a locksmith immediately if this happens to avoid further damage.
A key that is worn out can often scratch the internal surfaces. This could cause the key to stop working, or even break inside the lock cylinder. In this case you'll have to visit a locksmith to get a new key.
Another common cause for a worn out key is if it has been dropped or hit by accident. Take anything you don't require from your keychain to slow down the rate at which it wears. A heavy keychain may cause the internal mechanisms of your key to wear down faster, which is why it is worth taking care of it.
Honda keys are especially prone to being worn down because they have a different wafer system than other brands' cars. The edge of the Honda key is made up of an extremely small triangular-shaped nib that extends into the lock. The point of this tiny nib is easily worn down and wear is concentrated on the point. As the key is pulled into and out of the lock it grinds the tiny nib until it becomes impossible to use.
Dead Key Fob Battery
When you press the key fob, nothing happens. The remote lock system in your car relies on a battery contained in the key fob that transmits signals to the receiver in your vehicle. When the battery is dead it could leave you in a bind. It's easy to replace. Here's what you need to do:
It's time to replace the battery if your device is slow, i.e. you have click it multiple times before it responds. You can buy the replacement at any auto parts store, big-box retailer or even at some hardware stores. A CR2032 3V battery will work for most key fobs, but make sure you check the owner's manual or manufacturer's website for more details about which kind to purchase.
Find a slot or notch along the seam that divides the top and bottom half of your key fob. You can also make use of a screwdriver or coin to break the key fob out and get at the circuit board and buttons. Replace the battery that was in use with a newer model with + and - positioned the same as the old one. (The plus side is typically pointing towards the buttons.) Reassemble the fob and make sure that everything snaps together. Check that all the buttons on the key fob are working.
If your car doesn't start after replacing the batteries, there may be a more serious problem. For example, you may have accidentally wiped out your car's onboard computer by pressing certain buttons in the incorrect sequence. If that's the case, you'll have to check your vehicle's manual for instructions on how to re-program the key fob and start your car.
You should also keep an extra battery for your key fob available in case you are stuck if your original battery goes bad. If you aren't able to replace the key fob battery, your car probably has an electronic backup key in the car that you can use to unlock manually and lock your doors.
Broken Keys
It can be frustrating when your car keys break inside the lock for ignition. It's not recommended to try to remove a damaged key from the ignition. This can only make the situation worse. The best solution to this kind of issue is to contact a local locksmith and have them remove the broken key from the lock and give you a new key.
If your car keys are able to open the door, but it is unable to start the car, this could indicate that the ignition cylinder inside your car is getting close to its final point. It's the same thing that causes keys to stop working after prolonged use or after many hours of sweat. If this happens then reset your keys according to the instructions contained in the manual of your owner.
Another option to consider is visiting your dealer and having a new key cut. However, this can be expensive and may not be compatible with the majority of models of cars. If you decide to try this, take your VIN number to the shop to ensure that the key cuts are compatible.
Thirdly, try to insert the correct size between the two ends. You will have a harder time with plastic keys. You can also try super glue to try and connect the two components of the key, but this is a risky choice as it may damage your ignition.
Lastly, you can purchase a special tool called a key extractor. www.g28carkeys.co.uk come with small hooks that are designed to slide into the keyway, and then grip the broken bit of metal. These tools can be found in auto sections of big box stores as well as hardware stores. Be aware that any of these methods may cause the broken key to be pushed further into the lock. It is better to contact an expert locksmith instead.
Locked out
It can be more than just a hassle to get locked out of your car. It can be dangerous if there children in the car. Luckily, there are numerous solutions to this problem and ways to prevent it from happening in the first instance. The best strategy is to think ahead whether that means signing up for an automaker application, subscribing to a roadside service or simply putting keys in your house, office or with trusted friends and family members. You can also purchase an automobile that has excellent security features, like the latest inventory at Longo Toyota, and make sure that it has an extra key.
Batteries can be the cause that your car keys aren't working. If your key fob needs multiple presses of the buttons to unlock or start the car then it's time to replace the batteries. You can make use of a key fob replacement kit to do this yourself, or you can have a professional locksmith do it for you.
Another reason that your car keys won't functioning is because they've been damaged. This is typically due to rough use or the aging process. Over time the grooves on keys can wear down 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. A malfunctioning lock may also cause this problem. It is prone to wear out over time or snap if you apply a lot of pressure when turning the key. Call a locksmith instead of messing around with the lock, as you can cause further damage.
It's not uncommon to pick the wrong set when in an era of hurry. It's important to remember that each key fob is programmed with a unique code that is only valid for one vehicle. If you can't find your car keys from the beginning, it's possible that they're in your home or at the office however it's also likely that someone stole the keys. If this is the case, you will be required to contact your local dealer or authorised service centre for assistance.