How To Start A Jeep Cherokee With A Screwdriver? Quick Answer

The latest car models do not use traditional ignition keys to start the vehicle. With the advancement of technology, most cars now have keyless entry systems, which consist of a key fob transmitter and a receiver built into the vehicle. The key fob acts as a short-range radio transmitter that sends coded signals to a receiver in the vehicle. The receiver then performs a specific function, e.g. B. locking or unlocking the doors or starting the engine by pressing the push button.

Car key fobs are very convenient as they eliminate the possibility of locking keys in the car. However, there are times when the vehicle does not detect signals from the key fob. It is very annoying to see no key error messages as it forbids the user to get in the car or start the vehicle with the push start button. It’s not uncommon for the car not to receive signals from the key fob, and it’s a problem every car owner faces at some point.

Here we discuss some possible reasons for a car not recognizing the key fob:

Key fob battery dead

A bad battery in the key fob is most often the reason for no signals being sent to the keyless entry system. If available, use the spare key fob to unlock the vehicle and start the ignition.

If the replacement key fob is not available, use the key provided, which is built into the key fob, to unlock the door. To start the engine, refer to the owner’s manual on how to start your car if the key fob fails.

Using the wrong key

In a hurry, it is not uncommon for vehicle owners to reach for the wrong car key. Each key fob is uniquely programmed and will not work on other vehicles. Double check that the key used belongs to that particular car.

Broken or damaged key fob

It is possible that the key fob itself is defective. Old or loose wiring, water damage or programming issues prevent the car from locking and unlocking. Contact a certified locksmith to reprogram the key for the vehicle.

A problem with the keyless entry system or the start button

An antenna or wiring failure in the keyless entry system, software issues, a damaged circuit board, or a faulty start button are all possible culprits. Consider having the vehicle inspected for repair needs.

Worn car battery

Sometimes the problem is not with the key fob but with the car. Modern vehicle systems are demanding and can cause the car battery to run low or die, preventing it from responding to the key fob. Charge the battery and consider a replacement when it gets old and worn out.

vehicle locks

Problems with the car door locks can also cause problems with the key fob.

Broken contacts or misaligned buttons

Check the key fob for stuck or broken buttons. They affect the fob’s ability to work efficiently and send correct signals. When you are comfortable with this, disassemble the key fob and make the necessary adjustments. A professional locksmith may also be able to examine the key fob and fix the problem.

radio interference

Radio interference is a possible cause if the key fobs suddenly stop working. Wireless devices such as radar detectors and anti-theft devices can interfere with key fob signals by transmitting on the same frequency.

Most keychain problems have simple solutions. If the problem isn’t dead batteries, consult a professional locksmith to repair, replace, or reprogram the key fob, or have a duplicate key made to avoid car lockouts.

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The most common solution when a car remote isn’t working is to change the battery. But what to do if your key ring no longer works after changing the battery? The first thing you need to do is figure out what’s going on.

Without knowing why a key fob isn’t working after a battery change, there’s no way we can recommend a solution. But once you figure out what’s wrong, you can find your solution too.

Reasons for a key fob not working after a battery change include:

frequently asked Questions

How do I find out what battery my key fob is using?

To find your car key battery, open your fob. If there is a battery inside, there will likely be engraving starting with CR followed by a series of numbers. With no battery or engraving, consult your owner’s manual or search online for your car’s make, model and year.

Will my key fob work again if I replace the battery?

The most likely reason for a key fob not working is a dead battery. That being said, there are more serious issues your key fob could have. If you have a key fob that isn’t working after a battery change, you may need to replace the key fob or even repair some type of car door lock.

How do I know if changing my key fob battery will fix my car key?

A good indication that a car key is not working due to a dead battery is if the key does not work under any circumstances. All buttons are equally ineffective on all door locks. No lights flash when buttons are pressed, indicating no signal is being sent. However, the replacement tag works perfectly.

What do I do if my key fob doesn’t work after changing the battery?

If your key fob isn’t working after a battery change, check that your locks are working properly before proceeding with replacing car remotes. Also check that you have not accidentally deprogrammed your key fob.

Can you fix a key fob that stopped working after a battery change?

While replacing the battery may be the quickest fix when a remote control isn’t working, it’s certainly not your only solution available. Check whether your real problem is with the key fob or with the car. After finding the underlying problem, repair or replace the defective parts.

1. Worn buttons

The worn buttons on a remote control can be the reason why a key fob does not work after a battery change. Buttons on a key fob use contacts that send signals to a circuit board when the button is pressed. The contacts can wear out, or the buttons can wear out so they don’t touch the contacts.

The most obvious sign of a worn button is when the plastic has fallen apart exposing the contact. Without a visual indicator, you must use contextual cues. For example, a key fob will not unlock any doors but the lock button will work, you may have a worn unlock button.

It’s always a good idea to test a replacement remote and see if the problem persists with a different key. If two fobs have the same problem, the reason your fob isn’t working after a battery change is likely not a worn button or a contact issue.

Symptoms:

Pressing buttons sometimes works, but not always.

Buttons can function when pressed in a specific way.

One button works, another doesn’t.

Solutions:

Replace the remote control housing.

Replace the car key.

2. Broken locks

The cause of a key fob not working after a battery change may have nothing to do with the key fob. You may have a car door stuck in the locked position or need to repair car door latches. In any case, the problem could be that part of the lock has broken.

The best way to determine if a broken lock is the cause of your problem is to check if the remote control works to open or lock one or more doors. Sometimes several door locks can fail at the same time, but if they fail one after the other, it is also a sign that your key is not to blame.

If a car door will not open from either the inside or the outside, this is a good indication that no work needs to be done on the key fob. Locks that don’t move no matter how tampered with are broken locks. Aside from doors, you may also come across the need for trunk lock repair.

It’s not a good idea to neglect your car door locks. If the doors don’t open properly, it’s a major safety hazard. And if your locks don’t close reliably, your security suffers. Be sure to repair your locks as soon as damage begins to affect usability.

Symptoms:

The remote control opens some door locks and not others.

Indicator lights will flash to indicate a signal is being sent without the doors opening.

Door locks visibly move without fully engaging or disengaging.

Locks will not open or lock with the key or when tampered with directly.

Solutions:

Repair of car locks.

Replace car lock.

3. Deprogramming

If a car remote doesn’t work after changing the battery, chances are it’s been deprogrammed. Deprogramming refers to instances where the vehicle’s onboard computer has been procedurally instructed to remove all existing keys from its access list.

Deprogramming can be done by pressing buttons on the remote control. Certain key sequences can send a message to the on-board computer to invalidate any existing keys. If more than one fob stops working after a battery change, deprogramming may occur.

Some key fobs can be programmed to multiple vehicles. These keys have a sequence that changes which vehicle the fob opens. It is possible for your key fob to be accidentally placed in an unprogrammed duplicate key state.

You can check online or your owner’s manual to see if this is a feature of your car. If this is the case, see if you can reprogram your key yourself. Keep in mind that programming the key fob may require professional tools if you don’t have a spare key.

Symptoms:

A vehicle has a self deprogramming or reprogramming process.

Replacement remote doesn’t work either.

The key fob suddenly stopped working.

Solutions:

Self-programming (in limited cases)

call locksmith

Contact dealer

4. Damaged key

For this item, “damage” refers to damage done to the key fob outside of normal wear and tear caused by repeated instances of normal use. This type of damage can be caused by water, blunt force impact, scratches on the circuit board, etc.

You should suspect that a damaged key is the reason your key fob is not working after a battery change if the key fob suddenly stops working after being opened, stepped on or gotten wet. Damage can be visible, but not in all cases.

Unlike a key with worn buttons, a damaged key will need to be replaced entirely. For this reason, if you have a damaged key, you are likely to incur higher key fob replacement costs. If your problems are only due to damage to the case, a partial replacement may be an option.

Symptoms:

Problems arise after sudden damage to the key.

Key is visibly broken off.

Keys don’t move.

A spare key works.

Solutions:

housing replacement.

Complete key fob replacement.

5. Electrical problems

In more serious cases, the cause of a key fob not working after a battery change can be damage to the vehicle’s electrical system. This can happen after the vehicle has been serviced where the dashboard trim or side panels have had to be removed and reinstalled.

As the panels are removed, wires are exposed. They can be unknowingly damaged or separated during maintenance or when reattaching the panels. If you just performed this type of work before your key fob started responding, look for other electrical malfunctions.

Other electrical faults that can accompany key fob problems include the car horn now working, lights not coming on, etc. Fixing this type of problem is beyond what an auto locksmith service offers. An auto mechanic has more training and supplies to solve common electrical problems.

Symptoms:

The car has other electrical malfunctions.

The problems started after the wiring was exposed, edited, or otherwise accessed.

Solutions:

Reconnect cable.

Replace damaged wires.

final considerations

When it comes to a key fob that doesn’t work after a battery change, the solutions become a bit more complex. However, you can always reduce this complexity by calling a locksmith. Mobile locksmith services allow a professional technician to come to you and solve your key fob problem.

In many cases, the simplest solution is to replace your car key’s remote control, but not if the problem is with the locks or the electrical system. If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, please leave a contact below.

The ignition lock cylinder is a crucial component of your car. As important as it is, most car owners pay too much attention to it. You take it for granted until it wears out over time and then you can no longer use it properly or start your vehicle. Then you may need to replace it.

Once you have the key, removing it is relatively easy. Without them, the process requires a few extra steps.

Tools you need to change an ignition key lock without a key

To successfully complete the process of removing an ignition lock cylinder without a key, you must ensure that you have the following tools:

drilling machine

drill

flathead screwdriver

Step One – Battery Disconnect

The first part of removing or replacing a keyless ignition cylinder involves disconnecting the battery. This is a safety precaution to ensure you don’t short out or get an electric shock in your car.

To do this, you need to remove the negative cable clamp.

Step Two – Remove steering wheel

Next you need to remove your car’s steering wheel so you have full access to the lock cylinder. Remove all the screws from the top and bottom covers of the steering wheel and after removing the covers, lift the steering wheel up and pull the middle cover. You can now disconnect the wires to the car horn.

Be sure to set the nuts and washers securely, then pull the steering wheel completely off its axis.

Step Three – Remove the windshield wipers and turn signal switches

These are easy to find using your car’s owner’s manual and just need to be removed from their place.

Step 4 – Removal of the steering column sleeve

Inside the car’s steering wheel column you should be able to find the spacer columns. Once you find them, slide them up.

Step 5 – Disconnect the electrical system from the ignition switch

Locate and loosen the ignition switch mounting screws, and then pull out the ignition switch.

You must be careful to disconnect all wires from the appropriate connector on the underside of the ignition switch. Release the tabs and pull the switch out.

Step Six – Remove the mounting screws

Use either a screwdriver or socket wrench to remove the mounting studs or screws from the ignition switch. Completely detach the housing and switch assembly holding the lock barrel.

You will find that most car models have interchangeable universal lock cylinders. These are easy enough to remove by using a pin in the pinhole to operate the release mechanism.

Step Seven – Check the ignition switch housing mounting screws

You will find that some car models, depending on the manufacturer, have easy-to-remove breakaway security screw heads. This component is designed to prevent thieves from breaking into your car and changing the ignition switch so they can drive your vehicle without a key. You may need to use a drill with special pullers designed to remove the screws on the ignition switch to remove it from the steering wheel column.

Step Eight – Key Cylinder Lock

Take the ignition lock cylinder and a straightened paper clip and insert the clip into the slot and then twist counterclockwise. This will lock the cylinder and not start the ignition.

Step Nine – Screwdriver

Take your screwdriver and insert it into the ignition lock cylinder. Turn it clockwise as far as possible. Then drag the paper clip to the right as far as possible. The switch should then pull out easily.

That’s all there really is to it. If you have an older vehicle and this is the first time you’ve tinkered with the ignition lock cylinder, this may not be the easiest thing to do. This is because a lot of dust and dirt has accumulated in and around the cylinder.

Step 10 – Replacing the ignition lock cylinder

Whether cleaning and replacing a keyless ignition lock cylinder is necessary depends on the individual components and their condition. You can use the same keys and rebuild it if everything looks fine and seems to be working fine after a good cleaning and oiling. However, it may be time to buy a brand new ignition switch.

You have to keep in mind that unless you know for sure that a generic ignition lock cylinder (or the individual components you need to replace ) work in your car how to get spare keys. Be sure to include the exact model, year and make of your vehicle along with the VIN number to ensure you receive the correct part.

You may have had trouble starting the car, which seems normal. You may feel less worried until the steering wheel locks up. If the steering wheel locks, you cannot turn the ignition key either. There are many reasons why this could show up. In this article I will show you how to unlock a steering wheel without a key. Sounds impossible right? Well, a lot is possible. But before we get to that, I’ll also explain how to unlock a steering wheel with a key, why there are steering wheel locks, and possible causes of steering wheel locks.

Why steering wheel locks?

Are you surprised that your steering wheel locks up without doing anything stupid? Well, there are two reasons why your steering wheel suddenly locks up. The first reason is security. Every time you turn off the ignition and remove the key, the steering will automatically lock when you try to turn the steering wheel. Car manufacturers build this feature into cars so cars don’t move on their own.

The second reason is to protect your car from auto theft. Crooks can easily steal your vehicle using hot wire techniques. In order to minimize the number of car thefts, car manufacturers add this function to their vehicles.

Now that you know why the steering wheel locks, let’s quickly look at the only objective of this article, which is how to unlock the steering wheel without a key. You will also learn how to unlock the steering wheel with a dead battery. There are several ways to unlock the steering wheel, with or without the ignition key – and you’ll need some common mechanic’s tools.

WD40

screwdriver

hammer

chisel

canned air

Let’s look at the ways in quick succession.

Method 1: Try to unlock the steering yourself.

There are four steps to follow in this method.

Try inserting the key: Try inserting the key and turning the ignition on at the same time. You can try to spin the wheel on the side you spun it on before it locks up. If you can’t remember, try both sides. If your steering locks up as a result of an accident, this trick will help quickly.

Tip: Don’t apply too much pressure when spinning the wheel. Use moderate force to avoid further damage to the locking mechanism.

Try a different key: If the primary key fails, try a different key. In most cases the problem could be the ignition key. If you bought the vehicle used, it could be that the previous owner was not good with the key. Or you don’t handle it well either. Try the spare key if you have it. Chances are, it might work. If the surrogate key fails, try again with the primary key. However, most newer cars may not provide you with spare keys.

Try spraying WD40: If steps 1 and 2 above fail, try spraying WD40 into the ignition key hole. The wheel could be stuck in the locking tumblers due to dirt, debris, or solidification. Spraying WD40 could save you from the stress you are in. After spraying WD40, insert the key and try turning it back and forth. If this trick works, you’ll need to replace your lock cylinder.

Insert the key and tap it with a hammer: This method may sound strange, but it works. Try inserting the key a few times. You want to insert the key halfway and tap it with a hammer. You should make sure you hit straight to avoid bending or breaking the key.

Method 2: Unlocking by ignition replacement set

This method requires technical knowledge. But before you jump into this method, you want to try the above method first. You may need to seek professional help. And yes, you must consult your owner’s brochure before attempting this method.

Remove the pillar trims: You want to remove the pillar trim in the steering wheel by losing the screws that hold the bottom of the steering wheel. Locate the tab on the cover and press it. This way, the downward column will fall stress-free. You also want to remove the top column.

Enable cylinder lock: You want to locate the lock cylinder. Release the tab in the ignition lock assembly and push down while simultaneously turning the key until the cylinder retracts. Try this method a few times to loosen the lock cylinder.

Install new ignition lock system: Install new ignition lock system and try to unlock it with the old key.

Reinstall the cylinder lock as it was in the steering column.

Make sure you have inserted the locking tab into the barrel lock before proceeding.

Check if the key returns completely.

You want to make sure the key is returned before repairing the column again.

Reinstall the column: Reinstall the upper column before installing the lower part. Attach the screws and tighten them as they were.

Method 3. Unlock by loosening sticky locks

Another method to unlock a steering wheel lock without a key is to unlock sticky locks.

Spray electric cleaner in the ignition keyhole: Assuming you have a large lock cylinder, take your electric cleaner and spray it in the hole. Then you want to insert and remove your key. Do this a few times to gently smear it.

Spray compressed air from a can into the ignition: It is possible that the steering wheel is locked due to dirt and foreign objects caught in the ignition. In this case, insert the spray nozzle from the can into the ignition hole and spray into the air. It helps in removing the trapped debris.

Plug and unplug the key a few times: chances are you got caught in foreign objects in the pins of the ignition cylinder. So pushing the key in helps remove trapped dirt.

Check that the key is not damaged or bent: in some cases, the inability to unlock the steering wheel can be caused by a bent or damaged key. If you have a damaged key, the key’s broken teeth will not be able to engage the ignition cylinder pins to turn. You can replace the key or contact a dealer to have it serviced.

Tip: Make sure to check the power steering pump fluid level. Little or no steering fluid can also cause other problems.

Also Read: How to Start a Car with a Bad Ignition Switch

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How do I unlock a steering wheel bump to start?

How do you unlock a steering wheel push to start button? You must have noticed that when you turn off your car and remove your key, the steering locks. So you have two options for unlocking your steering wheel with the push of a button.

You can try stepping on the brake and pressing the push start button once while gently shaking the steering wheel back and forth. You can take your leg off the brake pedal and hit the start button twice while also wiggling the steering wheel. Both options also turn on the ignition.

Q: What causes the power steering wheel to lock up?

Few reasons can cause your power steering wheel to lock up. They are as follows;

(1) power steering system problem; If your power steering is binding or stuck, or you have a power steering fluid leak, it can cause a steering wheel lockup.

(2) Automatic steering lock function; The steering wheel has a feature that locks the steering when you turn off the car and remove your key from the ignition socket. This feature was added to minimize the car theft rate.

(3) failure of steering column or steering rack or suspension components; such a case could cause your steering wheel to lock while driving. Although this is not common, it does happen.

Q: What happens if my steering wheel locks up?

If your steering wheel suddenly locks up while driving, you will not be able to turn your steering wheel to go off the road, resulting in a serious car accident when a vehicle tries to overtake you. However, the possible cause of this could be power steering leaks, dirty steering fluid, or a failure of the suspension or steering column.

Q: Can a steering wheel lock up while driving?

Yes! Although this is a rare case. Since most modern cars are equipped with an automatic locking steering mechanism, they are only intended to activate when the vehicle is not operating and is parked. This is a theft and security mechanism.

Q: How much does it cost to unlock a steering wheel?

Unlocking a steering wheel can cost you practically nothing if you follow the guidelines above. However, the cost of unlocking a steering wheel can range from $100 to $400 depending on the cause of the problem, parts, and service fee.

How to fix a locked steering wheel tutorial YouTube

last thought

I believe this article provides clearly outlined steps and answers to questions like how to unlock my Honda Civic steering wheel or any other BMW, Mercedes and Audi car model. If you are having trouble understanding any part of the information in this article, consult your mechanic for proper verification and correction. So that’s all you need to know about how to unlock the steering wheel without a key.

Continue reading:

Instantly Lower All Windows: One of the more common hidden features of many of today’s key fobs is the ability to lower all windows and open the sunroof simultaneously with the press of a single button. It is convenient and helps cool the car on a hot summer day. However, it is not often written on the key fob, so the owner needs to know the key sequence.

On most cars that have this feature, this is accomplished by pressing the unlock button on the fob once, then again (within 10 seconds) and holding until all windows are open.

Remote Start: On most key fobs, the remote engine start button is marked with a circular arrow (but often not with the words “remote start”). Typically, the owner first presses the lock button, followed by a press of the remote start button. Other remote controls require the driver to press the circular arrow button twice (indicated by a “2x” or “x2”).

But with some new BMWs, the optional remote start function is completely hidden. For a limited time, owners can start the engine by pressing the lock button on the fob three times within one second.

Fold mirrors: Some cars automatically fold the side mirrors as part of the door locking process. For others, this feature is optional and the owner must know how to use it.

For example, on newer Chevrolet and GMC pickups equipped with remote mirror folding, the owner will hold the key fob lock button for a full second to fold the mirrors. This is a handy feature when parking on city streets or in a narrow alley, given how large pickup side mirrors are.

Vehicle Summoning: The Tesla Model S and Model X keychains—which look like a miniature car—have no tags, belying their many uses. One of them is the Tesla Summon feature, which allows the car to park in and out of tight spaces while the driver stands outside the car.

Before using Summon, owners must first activate the system from the vehicle’s center screen. This only needs to be done once.

To activate Summon, press the button in the center of the key fob – or minicar’s roof – until the hazard lights illuminate. Then when you want the car to move forward, press the button on the front of the key fob (it looks like the hood of the mini car). To stop the progress, press the same button again. The car can also reverse by following a similar procedure. Push the roof of the car and once the hazard lights come on, push the button on the back of the key fob (or where the trunk would be in a compact car). Once it has gone far enough, press this button a second time to stop the car from moving.

Tesla Model X owners may also not realize that pressing the top of the fob closes all open doors – front, rear or tailgate – at once.

Mechanical Key: Owners of cars with push button start systems may not be aware that there is a mechanical key in the key fob. This is so that owners can still unlock the driver’s door if the car battery or key fob battery is dead or the key fob is defective. The key is typically accessed by pressing a button on the fob and removing the key, although on some remotes the release is not obvious.