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5 Tips For Car Keys RepairsModern car keys can be complicated, and require professional repair when they become damaged. This article will provide 5 tips for keeping your car key in good condition.Often key fob repairs , problems with key fobs or remote controls can be solved by replacing the battery. In other cases there may be a need to reprogramme. Consult your owner’s manual or a professional for more specific instructions.Battery ReplacementMany modern cars now feature remote key fobs that include remote start and keyless entry features, as well as traditional keys made of metal. These keys are powered by small batteries which eventually run out and must be replaced. Fortunately the process is easy and can be completed by any auto accessory shop that has the correct type of battery for your vehicle model.First, check the owner's manual for your vehicle to find out the type of battery used in your key fob. Once you have this information, visit your local auto parts store and purchase an alternative. You may find the same battery for sale or even for free when you avail an offer.Once you have the new battery in hand, simply open your key fob, then remove the circuit board by tearing off two seams using a screwdriver with a flat head or your fingernail (if you're careful not press anything). Locate the battery compartment. It'll be inserted, or have a plus/minus symbol embossed. Carefully insert the new battery, making sure it is oriented correctly based on the way the previous one was.Once the new battery is installed, replace the circuit board and snap the two pieces of your key fob back together. After it's reassembled, test out the buttons to ensure that everything is working as intended. The key fob's identification will not be affected by changing the battery, so it shouldn't be required to be repaired following the repair. This is great news for drivers looking to save money by not having to go to a dealership or locksmith.Repairing the ignition CylinderModern key ignition systems for cars are complicated and require a precise sequence of movements prior to the engine starting. If something happens to interrupt that process, like a broken key cylinder that could cause your car to not start without power. It is possible to replace the key cylinder but it's not a simple process. The ignition is a delicate, one-key system. It requires special tools and careful lubrication.The first step is to determine whether the ignition will turn in the accessory position and if the key is inserted correctly. This will help diagnose the problem. If you are unable to rotate the cylinder in any direction, consult the owner's manual or call locksmiths for assistance with the ignition.If the cylinder will rotate in the accessory position, you can use a screwdriver to depress the small anti-rotation button located at the base of the cylinder. You can then rotate the cylinder until its retaining tab and slot line up, and slide it out of its casing. If the cylinder doesn't move at all, or it's stuck in a dead end, you may be required to gently tap it with the hammer or drill it. But do so with care, as drilling or rapping the cylinder can harm the steering column.The new ignition is installed after the old one has been removed. Then, you'll need to code the new cylinder so it matches the key in terms of sequence and orientation. Also, you'll need to take out and examine the tumblers. If any of the tumblers appear worn out, you'll need to replace them.After replacing the cylinder After the cylinder is replaced, you'll have to attach the dashboard covers and the steering column in the correct order. Reattach the dashboard and column covers in the proper order. Be careful not to disturb the wiring. It's easy to disconnect or damage vital electronic components. Reconnecting the negative battery cable is also crucial. Test your new ignition.Key ProgrammingModern car keys have a computer chip which communicates with the vehicle. In order for the keys to start the engine the chip and car need to "know each one another".A locksmith who has experience with many different kinds of vehicles can reprogram a key quickly. They can also help you if the lock on your car key has been damaged.The majority of car locksmiths will tell you that the process can take just one minute if all steps are taken in the right order. OBD2 or EEPROM programming can take a little longer, because your locksmith will have to remove specific modules from the car in order to access the passcode and key information. These kinds of procedures are best reserved for professionals with extensive knowledge of circuit boards and electronics, reducing the risk of corrupting data.Many people forget their keys to their car at home, or put them in the trunk of the car after loading groceries into the back seat. In these situations, you can often find yourself stranded on the side of the road, without any way to get home or to your destination. If you have a spare, your locksmith can program it to your car, allowing you to leave the road again.Car keys may stop working due to a variety of reasons, such as normal wear and tear, or if the lock is compromised. If the teeth on your car keys no longer fit into the lock, it is recommended to consider replacing the key.Many people attempt to reprogram their car keys themselves. However, it's recommended to employ a professional instead. It's not uncommon for these DIY methods to corrupt the data on your keys and cause it to fail, or more serious end up damaging your security system. A professional will have a lower risk of making a mistake that could cost you thousands in the future.Broken Key RemovalYou'll have to remove the broken key from the ignition cylinder in case it fails to function. It isn't possible to drive the vehicle until the damaged key is removed. It is best to employ a professional complete the task, since the incorrect use of lubricants or extraction tools can cause damage to the ignition. If you're looking to fix your broken car keys at home there are several methods that may help.A pair of needle-nosed pliers that have extra long tips can be used to grasp the key end that is still sticking out of the ignition. You can also give your pliers a boost by securing the business end of them with an adhesive substance like super glue, melted tallow, or putty. When this is done, the people will be able to latch onto the key fragment and pull it straight out of the cylinder.A fine, stiff wire can be used to slide along the broken part of a key and then pull it out of the lock. You can use a paperclip to accomplish this purpose, but be sure to bend each end slightly to increase the surface area that can be used to hold the key fragment.Mini hacksaw blades are a useful tool for fixing broken keys, but they need to be extremely small and thin to fit in the small opening of an ignition cylinder. These tools are available in hardware stores, as well as the auto parts section of a few big retailers.Spraying a small amount of grease into the hole of the key could be a great idea, as it could loosen the stuck car key and make it easier to remove. It is not a good idea to attempt to force out a broken key, as it can cause further damage to the key or ignition. A car key that is bent or snapped in half can be dangerous and challenging project to fix, so it's a good idea to keep a spare key for your car in a safe place at all times.