How to Repair Car Keys
A damaged car key could cause chaos in your day, and you need to be aware of how to fix it fast. It is best to determine if your bumper-to-bumper warranty, insurance or auto club covers it.
The process of replicating traditional keys with no chip is as simple as creating a exact replica. A key cutting machine will be used to trace the contours of the blank key.
Keys that are worn out
Your car keys are used frequently and they are worn down by regular wear and tear. This can cause them stop working or get stuck in your ignition. Replace the worn-out key before the problem worsens.
If you have to shake or jiggle the key to turn it, it's probably worn out and should be replaced. It is also essential to check the key cylinders in your ignition and doors frequently for dirt and debris. It is crucial to remove your keys from the ignition when you observe that they are worn. Clean them with a clean, dry cloth. You can also purchase a graphite-based lubricant to apply to metals in order to reduce friction.
If you attempt to turn your key, but it doesn't turn the cutting edges might be dull or damaged. The grooves could cause them to be distorted and the key won't fit in the lock or ignition. If you experience this problem it is crucial to see a locksmith as soon as possible to avoid further damage to the key or the lock cylinder.
A key that becomes worn out will often begin to scratch the internal surfaces. This could cause it to stop working, or cause it to split within the lock cylinder. In this instance you'll need to visit a locksmith to obtain a new key.
Another common cause for the key being worn out is if it was dropped or struck by accident. Take everything you don't need from your keychain to slow down the rate of wear. It is crucial to take care of your keychain as the weight of your keychain wears out the internal mechanisms more quickly.
Honda keys are particularly vulnerable to wear because they use a different wafer mechanism than other manufacturers' cars. The tip of the Honda keys has tiny triangular nibs that sticks out into the lock. This tiny nib is very easy to wear down over time and the wear is focused only on the point. As the key is pulled into and out of the lock, it grinds down the little nib until eventually it is impossible to use.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
When you press the key fob, nothing happens. The remote locking system in your car relies on the battery contained in the keyfob to send signals to the receivers inside the vehicle. When that battery dies, you can be left stranded. It's good news that replacing it is relatively simple and quick. Here's what you must do:
It's time to replace the battery if your device is slow, i.e. you have repeatedly press it before it responds. You can buy a replacement at any auto parts store, big-box retailer, or even at some hardware stores. A CR2032 3V battery is suitable for all key fobs however, make sure to consult your owner's manual as well as the manufacturer's site for details on which type to buy.
Find a slot or notch along the seam which separates the top from bottom sides of your key fob. You can also use a screwdriver or coin to break the key fob apart to gain access to the circuit board and buttons. Replace the old battery with a brand new one with + and - positioned identical to the old one. (The plus side is usually pointed towards the buttons.) Attach the fob shell together, making sure everything snaps in place. Check that all the buttons on the key fob are functioning.
If your car doesn't start after changing the batteries, there may be a more serious problem. You may have accidentally deprogrammed the onboard computer of your car by pressing certain buttons incorrectly. If that's the case you'll need to refer to your vehicle's manual for instructions on how to reprogram the key fob and start your car.
Keep a spare battery for your key fob to ensure that you don't get left stranded if the original one fails. If you aren't able to replace the key fob battery it is likely that your car has an electronic backup key inside that you can use to unlock manually and lock your doors.
Broken Keys
It's frustrating to find yourself in a position where your car keys break off within the lock for ignition. If you try to remove the car key that is broken from the ignition could make the situation worse, as it could cause more severe damage. The best method to deal with this kind of issue is to contact an expert locksmith in your area and have them remove the broken key from the lock and make you a new one.
If your car key is able to open the door but not start the car, this could be a sign that the ignition cylinder in your car is coming to an final point. It's the same thing that can cause keys to cease functioning after using it too long or putting it through many sweats. If this happens you can reset your keys by following the instructions contained in your owner's manual.
You can also go to your dealer and have a brand new key made. This is expensive and not all models work. If you decide to do this, take your VIN number to the shop to make sure the key cuts match.
Another option is to try to find a nail of the correct size between the two ends of your key. The key has to be made of steel to do this, so you'll have a more difficult time with plastic keys. Super glue can be used to connect the two pieces of the key, but it is not recommended as it could cause damage to your ignition.
Finally, car key repair shop can buy the special tool known as a key extractor. These tools come with small hooks designed to slide into the keyway, and then grip the broken bit of metal. They are available in hardware stores or the auto section of big box stores. Be aware that using any of these methods may actually push the damaged key further into the lock. It is recommended to call a locksmith instead.
Locked Out
Being locked out of your car can be more than an inconvenience. It could be dangerous when there are children in the car. There are many solutions to this problem, and methods to avoid it in the first place. The best approach is to plan ahead, whether that be signing up to an automaker app, signing up to a roadside service or simply putting an extra key in your home, office, or with trusted friends and family members. You can also buy a new car with excellent security features. For example, the current inventory of Longo Toyota. Make sure it comes with a spare key.
A common reason that your car keys not work is because the batteries are dead. If your key fob needs several presses to unlock or start the car then it's time to replace the batteries. You can use the keyfob repair kit or employ a locksmith to handle it.
Your car keys could also stop working if they are damaged. This can be the result of a rough use or aging. The grooves on keys can wear out over time and the depth of the grooves may not match the depth of the lock or ignition.
The keyhole in the vehicle could become blocked by dirt or impurities, causing the key to not fit. A malfunctioning lock may also cause this problem. It can wear out over time or even snap if you apply intense pressure when turning the key. It's best to call a locksmith rather than attempt and alter the lock yourself, as this could cause further damage to the lock.
It's not uncommon for people to accidentally grab the wrong set of keys for their car especially when they're in a hurry. It's important to keep in mind that every key fob is programmed with a unique code that can only be used for one vehicle. If you're unable to locate your car keys from the beginning it's likely that they're in your home or at the office, but it's also quite likely that someone stole the keys. If this is the case you'll need to get in touch with an auto dealer or a service center.