How to Repair Car Keys
A car key that isn't working properly can throw off your day, and you'll need to know how to fix it quickly. It is best to determine if your bumper-to-bumper warranty, insurance or auto club will cover it.
Traditional keys do not have chips, duplication is as simple as creating an exact duplicate. An associate will select the correct key blank and trace its contours using a key cutting machine onsite.
Keys that are worn out
You use your car keys often, and they can get damaged from wear and wear and tear. This can lead to them not working correctly or becoming stuck inside your ignition. Replace your worn-out key before the problem worsens.
Having to jiggle your key or shake it in order to make it turn is a sign that it is damaged and should be replaced. It is also crucial to check the key cylinders in your ignition and doors frequently for dirt and debris. It is important to remove your keys from the ignition when you observe that they are worn. Clean them with a dry, clean cloth. You can also purchase a graphite lubricant that can be used on metals to decrease friction between them.
If you try to turn your key, but it does not turn, the cutting edges may be damaged or dull. This could cause the grooves on the keys to change shape and it will not fit into your lock or ignition. It is crucial to visit a locksmith immediately if this happens to avoid further damage.
If a key wears out, it will begin to scratch its internal surfaces. This can cause the key to stop working or even break within the lock cylinder. In this case, you will have go to a locksmith to get a new key.
A damaged key could also be the result of dropping or accidentally hit. Remove anything you don't need from your keychain to reduce the rate of wear. It is crucial to take care of your keychain, as a heavy keychain will wear out the internal mechanisms faster.
Honda keys are especially prone to being worn down because they have a different wafer system than other manufacturers car keys. The tip of Honda keys is tiny triangular nibs that extends into the lock. This tiny nib is very easily worn down over time, and the wear focuses on just the tip. As the key is pulled into the lock and out it grinds the little nib until eventually it becomes impossible to use.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
It can be a real pain when you click the key fob button and nothing happens. The remote locking system in your car is dependent on the battery inside the keyfob to send signals to the receivers inside the vehicle. When that battery dies it can leave you without a home. It's easy to replace. Here's how:
If your device seems to be lagging and you need to press the button several times before it responds, it's time to get a new battery. You can buy an alternative 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 be sure to check your owner's manual as well as the manufacturer's site for details on which type to buy.
Look for an opening or notch in the seam that separates the top and bottom sides of your key fob. You'll also need a screwdriver or coin that can fit into the slot and be used to pull open the key fob and access the circuit board and buttons. Once you have removed the old battery, replace it with a new one with the same + and - position as the previous one (the plus side is usually directed towards the buttons). Attach the fob shell together, making sure everything is secure. Verify that all buttons on the key fob work.
If nearby key repair shop won't start after replacing the batteries, there may be a more serious issue. For instance, you could have erroneously deprogrammed your vehicle's onboard computer by pressing certain buttons in the wrong order. If that's the case, you'll have to check the manual of your vehicle for instructions on how to re-program the key fob to start your car.
You should also keep an extra battery for your key fob handy so you're not stuck when your original one is damaged. If you aren't able to replace the key fob battery you're likely to find an electronic backup key in the car that you can use to manually unlock and lock your doors.
Broken Keys
It's frustrating to find yourself in a position in which your car key is broken off within the lock for ignition. It's not advisable to try to remove a broken or damaged key from the ignition. This will only make the situation even worse. A locksmith's call to remove the damaged key and replace it is the most effective solution to this problem.
If your car's keys are capable of opening the door but not start the vehicle, it could be an indication that the ignition cylinder of your car is at its end. This is the same issue that can cause a key to stop working after it has been through heavy sweat or using it for too long. If this is the case, simply reset your keys by following the instructions provided in the manual of your owner.
Another option is visiting your local dealership and having a replacement key cut. However, this could be expensive and may not be compatible with all models of vehicles. If you do opt to do this ensure that you bring your car's VIN number to ensure they match the cuts made on the new key.
Thirdly, try to put an appropriate nail size between the two ends. You'll have a tougher time with plastic keys. Super glue can be used to connect the two pieces of the key, however it is not recommended since it could cause damage to your ignition.
You can also purchase a key extractor or a tool specifically designed for. These tools come with small hooks designed to slide into the keyway, and then grip the broken bit of metal. They can be found in the auto section of big box stores as well as hardware stores. Be aware that using any of these methods can cause the broken key to be pushed further into the lock. It is recommended to contact an expert locksmith instead.
Locked out
It can be more than just a hassle to be locked out of your car. It could be dangerous, particularly if you have children in the vehicle. Luckily, there are numerous solutions to this problem and ways to avoid it happening in the first instance. Make plans. This could involve signing to roadside assistance or subscribing to an automaker's app, or hiding a spare in your office, home, or with trusted family and friends. You can also buy new vehicles that have excellent safety features, such as the latest inventory from Longo Toyota, and make sure that it has an additional key.
Batteries could be the cause that your car keys aren't working. If you have to press the button on your key fob multiple times to unlock or start your car, it is time to replace the battery. You can use a key fob repair kit to perform this yourself, or hire a professional locksmith to complete it for you.
Your car keys may also be inoperable if they're damaged. This usually happens due to rough use or ageing. The grooves in keys can wear out over time and the size of the grooves may no longer match that of the lock or ignition.
The keyhole in your vehicle can become clogged by dirt or other impurities, which can cause the key to not fit. This can also be due to an inoperative lock, which can wear down over time, or even break if extreme pressure is applied upon turning the key. It's best to call a locksmith rather than attempt and play around with the lock on your own, as this can further damage it.
It's not uncommon for people to accidentally take the wrong set of keys for their car particularly if they're in a hurry. It's important to remember that every key fob is programmed with a specific code that can only be used for one vehicle. If you can't locate your original keys, they could be in your home or at the office. But, it's possible that someone may have stolen them. If this is the situation you'll need to get in touch with an authorized auto dealer or service center.