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Vehicle Key Repairs You Shouldn't Do Yourself If your car's key stops working, it could be a real trouble. It could be due to various reasons. The positive side is that the majority of keys to vehicles can be repaired without going to an auto dealer or paying a locksmith. Here are some common issues and their simple solutions. Keys Lost or Broken You want your vehicle to be operating quickly after a key break. DIY repairs may worsen the issue. For instance, if the key breaks within the ignition cylinder, you should avoid trying to force it out since it could damage the lock or the ignition. Instead, call the local locksmith to get help. They'll have the tools to take out the broken key without causing further damage. If you're determined to tackle it yourself, use pliers with needle-noses to insert into the cylinder, and then grab the broken key piece. If this isn't working you can try a jigsaw blade with downward-facing teeth that can latch onto and pull the broken key. Don't try to insert anything else into the cylinder as doing so will push the key further in and make it more difficult to retrieve. The battery could be dead. It is easy to replace the lithium-ion button or coin cell batteries on a variety of models. You can purchase replacement batteries at supermarkets, pharmacies and home improvement shops. However, if your fob has been damaged or lost, take it into a reputable auto technician to swap out the battery and create the new key. If your key fob is a high-tech device that has been damaged or lost, you will likely have to visit the dealer for a replacement. car key fob repairs are different from mechanical keys in that they must be programmed by the manufacturer to work with the vehicle. In these cases, it is best to get a professional to design a duplicate key. They can make the right cuts and reassemble the mechanism and then transfer the transponder chip from your old key to the new. If the key in your car is a high-tech one with a digital display, you'll probably need to visit the dealership to get an alternative. The manufacturer needs to reprogram high-tech keys into the vehicle's security system. Most dealers have the equipment for this job on-site. They can also cut keys that are new so you don't have to wait for the new one to be delivered. Dead Batteries Batteries are an essential component in any gadget or device and can easily wear out from extended usage or the absence of regular charging. If your car's key fob is showing indications of a dead battery, it's crucial to address the issue as soon as you notice. A dead battery can result in the key fob not responding to button press, and electrical components like the ignition in a vehicle not responding to jump-starting attempts. The battery of a car key is usually a small coin-sized model that can be replaced at home or by a professional locksmith. Before replacing a battery, be sure to know which type of battery is being used by the vehicle. You can often find the information on the battery in the documentation of your vehicle. Using an incorrect replacement can cause your key fob to malfunction or not function at all, requiring costly repairs or a whole new purchase. A few indicators of a dead battery include a long response time when pressing the key fob buttons, intermittent functionality, and dim light bulbs for the key fob. A battery that shows zero voltage on a voltage meter is also likely to be dead, and physical damage to the battery case could be indicative of irreparable internal damage. The battery can be easily replaced in the car fob by loosing the screw on the back panel of the fob using the help of a screwdriver, then opening the panel to reveal the compartment. You can then remove the battery that was in place using the help of a small screwdriver with a flat tip, and insert a fresh one in the same place. Snap the two halves of the key fob together when you're done. Test it to make sure the key functions properly. Be careful not to loose the screw that holds the battery in place Be sure to keep it in a safe place if you don't need it again (like in an resealable plastic bag, or small cup). Certain models of cars have specific screws that need to be removed to access the key fob battery. If this is the case for your vehicle, consult the owner's manual or an online tutorial video to determine how to remove it safely. Transponder Chip The majority of modern car keys are equipped with transponder chips (also known as a “chipped key”). This is to prevent the hot wiring of cars. When you put your key transponder in the ignition it transmits a radio signal sent to the chip in the head via an antenna (which is actually an induction coil). The car's computer then verifies that the transmission is from the right owner and allows the engine to start. This is an effective way to prevent your vehicle from being taken and adds a layer of security. One of the most obvious signs that the chip that transponders isn't functioning properly is the inability to start your vehicle. If your key turns on the ignition, but the car doesn't turn over or start it could be because the chip isn't communicating with your car's system correctly. A transponder key needs electronic power to work, and that power is provided via a tiny battery in the head of the key. As time passes, the battery will lose its charge and stop providing the power needed to allow your car to start. If you're experiencing issues with your transponder key it's crucial to get it examined by a professional. A locksmith can diagnose your problem and replace the battery or reprogram the key to make it work again. You may have noticed that a transponder is more expensive than a regular metal key. This is due to the higher costs of manufacturing a chipped-key. It doesn't mean you must visit the dealership each time you require a replacement key. It is best to research and compare different companies before selecting one. Be aware that certain companies can provide cheaper replacement keys due to their lower cost of operations. However it's important to keep in mind that a key that is cheaper isn't always the highest quality. You may be better off paying a little more for a better quality key that will last longer. Programming Modern cars use fobs and keys that can do a lot more than simply unlock the doors or open the trunk. Some keys and fobs have features that let you start your car remotely and lock the doors at the touch of a button. They are also protected against digital and physical attacks. In turn, the fobs and keys need to be programmed correctly, or they will not function. This job is typically reserved for skilled auto technicians or locksmiths, since it requires an understanding of the vehicle's safety system as well as the use of specific tools. There are several scenarios where reprogramming a key or fob might be necessary. Most commonly, it is necessary to reprogramme keys or fobs are lost or stolen or when someone purchases a used vehicle and wants to ensure that the keys they have previously used will not work in the vehicle. Certain vehicles require specialized tools to reprogram keys and fobs. However, this is not always the case. A depleted battery on the remote key fob is another scenario where reprogramming could be required. This is a simple fix, as most keyfobs utilize a tiny clock batteries which can be found in drugstores and home improvement stores. This won't allow you to open the trunk or start the engine, but it will prevent the key fob malfunctioning. Certain key fobs may need to be reprogrammed in the event that they've been damaged due to dirt, water or other environmental elements. A professional can help in this situation and get you back on the road. In this instance the expert will analyze the damage and determine what kind of reprogramming tool is required. The professional will use the correct tools to reprogram the transponder or key fob, and then test it so that everything works according to plan. Reprogramming an electronic fob or key is a difficult process and the wrong method could result in serious issues. It is best to delegate the task to a reputable automotive locksmith. This will not only ensure that the job is completed correctly, but it will also assist you in avoiding costly mistakes down the road.