Losing or damaging your car keys can be a major inconvenience for anyone.
Modern car keys are more complex as they contain sophisticated electronics that can fail.
In this article we will guide you through diagnosing common car key problems and exploring potential repair options, helping you save money and avoid unnecessary and sometimes expensive trips to the garage.
If you are not comfortable working with electronics or disassembling your key, we do offer a professional car key repair service where we can repair and return your car key within 24 hours. Contact Us HERE.
Before attempting any repairs, it is important to identify the problem.
Common Key Problems:
Dead Battery: The most frequent culprit, especially in keys with remote functions.
Broken Key Fob: Physical damage to the plastic casing or internal components.
Snapped Key Blades: Quite common on certain makes and models.
Button Failure: Buttons may become unresponsive due to wear and tear.
Transponder Chip Issues: The chip that communicates with your car's immobilizer system can malfunction.
Water Damage: Exposure to moisture can corrode electronic components.
Troubleshooting:
Check the key battery first as this is the most common issue.
Look for any physical damage, such as cracks in the casing or worn / broken buttons.
Check the key blade for cracks in the housing.
If the keys buttons are unresponsive, it could be that the switches which are fitted to the circuit board (PCB).
If the vehicle is not starting (Transponder Chip Issue) try a spare (if you have one).
If water damage is severe, it is best to consult a professional.
Depending on the issue, you might be able to fix your car key yourself.
D.I.Y Repair:
Battery Replacement: This is usually a simple fix. Open the key fob (refer to your car's manual or online resources for instructions), remove the old battery, and replace it with a new one of the correct type, You can purchase your batteries HERE Batteries.
Key Fob Replacement: Replacement key fobs can be purchased online via our website; our replacement aftermarket key fob cases can be D.I.Y fitted if you have the tools or we can do it for you using our Car Key Repair Service, You can purchase your HERE Key Cases.
Key Blade Replacement: If you have a snapped or damaged key blade a trip to your local key cutting shop and a new key blade cut and fitted should fix the issue (unless the housing has broken in which case a new remote key case will resolve that).
Switch Replacement: If a button is loose or missing, you might be able to find a replacement button online or at an electronics store, just bear in mind the switches are soldered onto the circuit board (PCB) and not glued You can purchase your HERE D.I.Y Repair Kits.
Important: Always disconnect the battery before working on the internal components of your car key. This will help prevent electrical shorts.
If you are not comfortable performing the repair yourself seek professional help.
Professional Services:
We can diagnose and repair these complex issues; we have the tools and expertise to conduct a full diagnosis and repair in our workshop, You can Contact Us HERE about our professional car key repair service.
While professional services may be a little more expensive than DIY repairs, they can save you time, money, and potential damage to your car.
Some car key problems are beyond the scope of DIY repair, The last resort.
When to Visit the Garage:
Transponder Chip Issues: Programming or replacing a transponder chip requires specialised equipment.
Immobilizer System Problems: Issues with your car's immobilizer system can prevent the key from being recognized and will have to be plugged into specialised diagnostic equipment.
Cost Considerations:
The cost of car key repair or replacement can vary depending on the type of key, the extent of the damage, and the service provider.
Simple repairs like battery replacement are inexpensive, while more complex issues like transponder chip programming can be more costly.
Repairing your car key can be a cost-effective alternative to replacing it.
By understanding common car key problems and exploring DIY repair options, you can save money and avoid unnecessary trips to the garage, however, it is important to recognise when professional help is needed.
When in doubt, consult a qualified auto locksmith or car key specialist to ensure that your car key is properly repaired or replaced.
Express Car Keys is a Trusted car key repair specialist.
If you do not see a product in stock or have any questions please contact us HERE Contact Us.
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