How to Repair Car Keys
The car keys are tiny and may not seem important, but they're essential to the functioning of your car. The cost of replacing the traditional or contemporary transponder car key can range from $200 to upwards of $200.
There are solutions to fix your car keys yourself for less than the cost. This article will go over some of the most frequent car keys issues and their DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
The remote key fobs that come with cars make it simpler than ever to open the trunk, doors, and tailgate. The battery in the device is prone to dying. There are a few tricks you can employ to fix this issue quickly.
First, check if the car is still in ignition mode. If it is, the key fob battery may simply be depleted instead of dead. To test this, push the button on the key fob towards the ignition button. If it works, the battery is probably in good condition and just has to be replaced.
To replace the battery in the fob, you need to open the case with the screwdriver. Be careful not to put too much pressure on the fob since this could cause the fob to break in two. If the fob isn't coming open with ease, try placing your pry tool in several places around the outside of the case.
Once the fob is open, remove the mechanical key and then open the electronic part of the car. Install the new battery and snap it back into the shell. If the key fob won't work after this procedure, there could be a more serious problem with the remote start system that requires a professional diagnosis. A trusted mechanic will be able help you if this is the situation. If you need help with your car, you can contact roadside assistance.
Broken Key Ring
There are a few steps that you can do in the event that your key fob won't work because the ring has been broken. First, you should check to see if the broken piece is still inside the ignition. If it is, you should remove it without damaging the lock on the ignition or door lock. If you are having trouble taking it off, call a locksmith for assistance. They have tools that are able to safely remove the damaged key from the ignition.
Another reason for a broken car key is the corrosion of the circuit board or plastic frame. You can clean the circuit board using a cotton swab and ruby alcohol. This will remove corrosion and ensure the contact pads don't get damaged.
If broken car key repair won't start because of a broken ring it, you might be able fix it using a sturdy wire or nail to plug the hole. Superglue can be used to repair damaged key rings. After cleaning the ring using a damp cloth Apply a small amount superglue to the ends of the wire or nail. Then, press the pieces together and let them dry before using your vehicle. These DIY solutions might seem appealing, but they're really just temporary solutions. It is best to employ an experienced locksmith for long-term repairs. They have the tools and knowledge to fix a broken car key quickly and effectively. They can even replace the battery in the key fob and reprogram it if needed.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades might break due to wear and tear. If this occurs, you must buy a new blade. Luckily, this problem isn't as severe as it appears at first glance. The most significant issue is that the metal blade broke off from the case.
Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is a method to fix the problem. You can then employ pliers or tweezers grab the broken end of the key and pull it. You can also use a magnet if the key is magnetic. Use a magnet to help you remove the key, but take care to not break 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're equipped with special tools to safely extract keys without causing damage.
You can also use super glue to repair a snapped key. Apply a small amount glue to the edges of the break and press them together. After that, wait until the glue is dry before inserting your key into the lock. This method isn't very reliable, and you might have to repeat it a few times before it does the trick. In addition the super glue might not be strong enough to keep the key in place. This is more of a temporary solution rather than an option that is permanent.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the loop of plastic on your key fob is damaged it could make the key useless. It's an easy fix. As a replacement, you can use a thick wire or finishing nail. Make two holes in the damaged loop of plastic for each end of the nail or wire. Cut the wire or nail to the desired width, and place a small drop of superglue in each hole. Then, press the wire or nail into the holes until it closes them and let it dry.
A locksmith who sells replacement shells is an alternative option. They can transfer the programmable part of your key to the new shell, and cut a brand new blade for a fraction of the cost.
This isn't the best solution, but will get you on the road again if your key been cut in half. It's difficult to fix when the key blade is in the ignition, however. If you are not careful you could employ a hair clip, or a needle to remove the broken part from the ignition. Contact a locksmith who has special tools to safely remove damaged keys from ignitions. They can also design new keys with the correct cuts for the ignition of your vehicle to ensure that it functions properly when it is inserted into the lock.
Broken Master Key
If a key breaks inside the lock, you'll have to find it before it's completely destroyed. There are a variety of methods you can employ, such as using lubricants and tools like needle nose pliers and tweezers. These tools can take a small piece of the broken key and then remove it.
Spray the inside of the lock with WD-40 or graphite powder. You can also try hacksaw blades by sliding the blade along the sides of a damaged key and grabbing onto some of its teeth. If you're successful, you should be able to remove the broken key.
Many hardware stores sell the spiral key extraction tool. This has a thin flexible bar with spiral threads that can be inserted into the keyway, and then bent to get into the broken section of the key. Once it has caught onto the serrations you can twist the bar around and then pull it against the broken section of the key.
Before contacting a locksmith, try to remove the broken master key before calling a locksmith. If you're unable to pull the piece out, it's time to call the big guns and let a locksmith make you a brand new key and reprogram it to the transponder of your car.