If you’re like most people, you probably don’t think about automotive locks very often. But if your car is stolen, or if someone tries to get into it without your permission, you’ll want to know how to rekey the ignition so that the car can be driven without the original owner’s authorization. In this guide, we’ll teach you everything you need to know about automobile ignition rekeying.
What is a Rekey?
Rekeying a car ignition is a process of changing the key’s cylinder to match the vehicle’s make and model. Rekeying is necessary on many vehicles due to the ever-changing security features available on new models.
How Does It Work?
If your car is equipped with an ignition key, you can rekey it yourself. This process involves removing the old ignition key and replacing it with a new one. The new key will have a unique code that corresponds to the car’s make and model. When you start the car, the new code will unlock the vehicle’s engine and allow you to drive away.
What Can Go Wrong?
When it comes to car ignition, many things can go wrong. Ignition issues can be caused by a number of factors, including corrosion on the key or in the ignition system. If you’re experiencing an ignition issue, there’s a good chance that you can fix it yourself. Here’s a look at some common problems and how to fix them:
Corrosion on the key or in the ignition system: If corrosion is blocking your car’s key from turning, you can clean it with a bit of baking soda and water. For more severe cases, you may need to get a new key made. You can also try using a vacuum cleaner to remove any buildup of dust and debris.
Dead battery: A dead battery doesn’t just mean you won’t be able to start your car – it also means that the key won’t work. To test if your battery is dead, try inserting into another ignition source (like a light switch). If your car still won’t start after inserting the key into another source, your battery might be dead. To replace your battery, first disconnect the negative cable and then unscrew the battery cover. Finally, replace the battery and screw the cover back on.
Faulty ignition
How to Rekey a Car Ignition
If you’re considering rekeying your car’s ignition, there are a few things to keep in mind first.
The first is that the process of rekeying a car’s ignition is not particularly difficult, but it does require some tools and know-how. If you’re comfortable working with tools and have some basic electrical knowledge, you can do the job yourself. Otherwise, you may want to consider hiring a professional.
Another thing to keep in mind is that rekeying a car’s ignition will only work with the same make and model of car. If your car is different, you’ll need to find an alternative means of starting it (like using a keyless remote).
When rekeying your car’s ignition, be sure to use the correct tool for the job. There are several types of Ignition Rekey Tools on the market, so make sure you get the right one for your vehicle.
Finally, take care when performing the rekeying process. If done incorrectly, it could result in a broken wire or even an engine seizure. Follow all instructions carefully and consult a qualified technician if there are any doubts about the process.
Conclusion
If you’re like most people, you’ve probably had to rekey a car ignition at some point in your life. Whether it was because your parents got a new car and forgot to remove the old key, or you just moved and didn’t take the old one with you, chances are good that you have some experience rekeying car ignitions. If not, don’t worry — this guide will walk you through the process step by step. Hopefully this will help keep your vehicles safe and secure in the future.