How to Repair Car Keys
Car keys may appear tiny and insignificant, but they are crucial to the operation of your vehicle. The cost of replacing the traditional or contemporary transponder car key can range from $200 to upwards of $200.
There are ways to fix your car keys yourself for less than the cost. This article will go over some of the most common car keys issues and their DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
Cars are equipped with remote key fobs that allows opening the doors, trunk and tailgate easier than ever. However, the battery inside this device can die. There are a few strategies you can use to resolve this problem quickly.
Check to see if your car is still in the ignition mode. If it is, then the battery of the key fob may be drained instead of dead. To test this, press the fob's button against the ignition button of the vehicle. If it works, the battery is probably in good condition and only has to be replaced.
To replace the battery in the fob, open the case with the screwdriver. Be cautious not to apply too much pressure as this could cause the fob to split in two. If the fob isn't opening try prying the tool more than once around the outside of the case.
Open the electronic portion of your car after you have removed the mechanical key. Then, insert the battery replacement and snap the shell back together. If your key fob still doesn't work after this, it may be a larger problem with the remote start system of your car. This will require an expert to determine the cause. If this is the case, a trusted mechanic should be able help you. You can also reach out to roadside assistance to assist with your vehicle, if you require it.
Broken Key Ring
There are a few things you can do when your key fob does not function because the ring is broken. Examine if you can locate the broken piece in the ignition. If it is, you should remove it without damaging the door lock or ignition lock. Call a locksmith if you are having trouble removing the key. They have special tools that are able to safely remove a damaged key from the ignition.
Another common cause of broken car keys is the corrosion of the circuit board or frame. You can clean the circuit board by using a cotton swab with ruby alcohol. This will remove any corrosion and ensure that the contact pads don't get damaged.
If your key isn't starting because the ring is broken or was damaged, you might be able to repair it with a strong wire or nail to close the hole. Superglue can be used to fix a broken key ring. After cleaning broken car key repair with a moist cloth Apply a small amount superglue to the ends of the wire or nail. Then, press the pieces together and allow them to dry before using your car. These DIY solutions might seem appealing, however they are only a temporary solution. For long-term repairs, it's recommended to hire an experienced locksmith. They have the expertise and tools to fix a broken key quickly and efficiently. They can replace the battery and reprogram the 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 blade. Fortunately, this issue isn't as bad as it appears at first glance. The main problem is that the metal blade snapped off the case.
One method to fix this is to spray the key hole with fluid that lubricates the key hole. Then, you can use pliers tweezers, or a pin to grab the damaged key and pull it out. You can also make use of a magnet if the key is magnetic. Just be careful not to use a magnetic tool on an ignition key because it could cause the lock tumbler to break.
If you're unable to take the broken piece of the key, call an emergency locksmith. They have tools that permit them to safely remove keys without causing damage.
You can also use super glue to repair a snapped key. Apply a small amount of the glue to the edges and press them together. Wait until the glue has dried before inserting the key into the lock. This method is not very reliable, and you may have to repeat it several times before it is successful. Super glue may not be able to hold the key in place. So, this is more of a temporary measure than an option that can last.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the loop of plastic on your key fob fails it could make the key ineffective. Fortunately, this is a fairly simple fix. You can make use of wire or a nail for finishing to replace it. Drill two holes in the plastic loop that is broken for each end of the wire or nail. Cut the wire or nail to a key width, then place a drop of superglue in each hole. Press the nail or wire into the holes and allow them to dry.
A locksmith who sells replacement shells is another option. They can transfer the programmable section of your key to the new shell, and cut a brand new blade for only a fraction of the price.
It's not the most ideal solution, but it'll bring you back on the road if your key snapped in half. It can be difficult to repair the key blade if it's in the ignition. You can try using hair clips, a needle or an extractor tool to remove the damaged piece of the ignition, but it's risky if not careful. The best choice is to contact a locksmith who has special tools for safely removing damaged keys from the ignition. They can also design new keys with the appropriate cuts for the ignition of your vehicle, so it will work perfectly when it is put into the lock.
Broken Master Key
You'll need to try at regaining the key before it's completely destroyed. There are a variety of methods you can use, including using lubricants, tools, needle nose pliers and tweezers to pick up a piece of the broken key and pull it out.
Spray the inside of the lock with WD-40 or graphite powder. You can also use the hacksaw blade method that involves sliding the blade along the side of a damaged key and then grasping a few of its 'teeth. If you're successful, you should be in a position to remove the broken key.
Another tool that is useful is an extractor for keys spiral, that can be found in many hardware stores. It is a thin rod with spiral threads that can be inserted in the keyway, and then bent into the broken part of the key. Once it is firmly anchored to the serrations you can twist the bar in a circle and pull it against the broken section of the key.
Before contacting a locksmith try to remove the broken master key. If you're not able to take the broken piece off then you'll have to call in the professionals. Locksmiths can create you an entirely new key that will be programmed using the transponder of your car.