How to Repair Car Keys
The car keys are tiny and might not seem to be important, but they are essential for the proper operation of your car. Replacing a traditional or a modern transponder key can cost upwards of $200.
There are ways to fix your car keys yourself for less than the cost. This article will address the most frequent car keys issues and their DIY fixes.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
The remote key fobs that come with cars make it easier than ever before to open the trunk, doors, and tailgate. The battery inside this device is susceptible to dying. However, there are a few tricks that can be used to solve this problem in the event of a need.
Check to see if the vehicle is still in ignition mode. If it is, then the key fob battery may simply be depleted instead of dead. To test, press the fob's button against the ignition button on the vehicle. If it works, then the battery is probably working fine and needs to be replaced.
To replace the battery in the fob, pry open the case with the screwdriver. Be cautious not to put too much pressure on the fob as this could cause the fob to split into two pieces. If the fob doesn't seem to be coming open with ease, try placing your pry tool in multiple places on the outside of the case.
Open the electronic part of your car once you have removed the mechanical key. Install the new battery and snap it back into the shell. If your key fob doesn't work after this, it may be an problem with the remote start system of your car. This requires an expert to determine the cause. If this is the case, a reliable mechanic should be able to help you. If you need help with your vehicle or vehicle, you can get roadside assistance.
Broken Key Ring
There are a few steps to do if your key fob doesn't work because the ring has been broken. The first step is to see if the broken piece is still in the ignition. If it is, you should remove it without damaging the lock on the ignition or door lock. Contact a locksmith if have difficulty taking the key off. They have special tools to safely remove a damaged or broken key from the ignition.
Another reason for a broken car key is corrosion on the circuit board or frame. You can clean the circuit board by using a cotton swab and rubbing alcohol. This will remove any corrosion and ensure that the contact pads aren't damaged.
Repair a damaged ring by using a thick wire or nail to seal the hole. You can also use superglue to fix a broken ring. After cleaning the ring with a wet cloth apply a small amount of superglue to the ends of the wire or nail. Allow the pieces to dry, and then press them into place. These DIY solutions may seem appealing, but they're only a stopgap measure. It's best to hire an expert locksmith for repairs that last. They have the knowledge and tools to fix the broken key quickly and effectively. They can replace the battery and reprogram your key fob in the event of need.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades might break due to wear and tear. If this occurs, you ought to buy a new one. Fortunately, the issue isn't as bad as it may appear at first. The problem is that the metal blade has snapped away from the case.
Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is a way to fix the problem. Then you can use pliers tweezers, or a pin to grasp the damaged key and pull it out. You can also employ a magnet in the event that the key is magnetic. Use a magnet to assist you remove the key, but be cautious to not damage the tumbler of the lock.
Call a locksmith immediately in the event that you are unable to take out the damaged part of the key. They have special tools that let them safely remove keys without causing further damage.
You can also try super glue to fix a snapped key. Apply a small amount of glue to the edges of the crack and press them together. Wait until the glue is dry before inserting your key into the lock. This method isn't reliable and you may have repeat the process several times before it is successful. Plus the super glue may not be strong enough to hold the key together. This is more of a temporary solution than a permanent solution.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the plastic loop gets damaged it can render the key ineffective. Fortunately, this is an simple fix. You can make use of wire or a finishing nail as a replacement. Drill two holes in the plastic loop that is broken for each end of the wire or nail. Cut the nail or wire to the desired width and then put the superglue drop in each hole. Then, press the wire or nail into the holes and allow them to dry.
Another option is to get an alternative shell from a locksmith that sells them. They can remove the programmable part of your key, move it to the new shell, and cut an entirely new blade for less than a full replacement cost.
It's not the most ideal solution, but it will bring you back on the road if your key broke in half. However, it can be difficult to fix the blade of the key if it's in the ignition. If you're not careful you can use a hair clip or needle to remove the damaged part from the ignition. Contact a locksmith who has special tools to safely remove broken keys from ignitions. They can also create new keys with the appropriate cuts for your vehicle's ignition, so it will work properly when it is inserted into the lock.
Broken Master Key
If a key is broken inside the lock, you'll have to attempt to retrieve it before it's completely destroyed. car remote key repair near me can make use of tweezers, lubricants, and needle nose pliers for grabbing the fragment of a broken key.
Spray the inside of your lock with WD-40 or graphite powder. You can also use the hacksaw blade technique that involves sliding the blade along the sides of a damaged key and grasping onto a few of its 'teeth.' If you are successful you will be in a position to remove the broken key.
Many hardware stores sell a spiral key extraction tool. It's a thin and flexible bar with spiral threads, which can be put into the keyway and bent to reach into the damaged section of the key. Once it is firmly anchored to the serrations, you can twist the bar around and then pull it against the broken section of the key.
It's worth trying to remove a master key that's broken prior to calling a professional locksmith. If you are unable to take the broken piece off it's time to call a locksmith. A locksmith can make you an entirely new key that will be programmed to the transponder in your car.