How to Repair Car Keys
The car keys aren't big and might not seem to be important, but they're essential for the proper operation of your vehicle. Replacing a traditional or a transponder key that is modern could cost as much as $200.
However, there are ways to repair your car keys at home with less than. This article will discuss the most common car key fob repairs keys issues and the DIY solutions to fix them.
Dead Key Fob Battery
The remote key fobs that are included with cars make it easier than ever before to open the trunk, doors, and the tailgate. However, the battery inside the device can fail. There are a few strategies you can use to solve this issue quickly.
Check to see if your car is still in the ignition mode. If so the battery of the key fob might be low instead of dead. To test this, press the button on the key fob against the ignition button. If it does not work, the battery is probably in good condition and only requires to be replaced.
To replace the fob's battery, begin by prying the case open using a screwdriver or watch-type tool. Don't apply too much force, as this may cause the fob's casing to split. If the fob isn't opening open with ease, try placing your pry tool into multiple places around the outside of the case.
Open the electronic compartment of your car after you have removed the mechanical key. Insert the new battery and then snap back the shell. If the key fob isn't working after this, it may be that there is a larger problem with the remote key fob repair near me starting system in your car. This will require an expert to identify. A trusted mechanic will be capable of helping you if this is the situation. You can also contact roadside assistance to assist with your vehicle if needed.
Broken Key Ring
There are a few options that you can do when your key fob does not function because the ring is broken. The first step is to see if the damaged piece is still in the ignition. If it is, remove it without damaging the lock on the ignition or door lock. If you are having trouble getting it out, contact a locksmith for help. They have tools that can safely remove keys that are damaged from the ignition.
Another common cause of the car key breaking is corrosion on the circuit board or plastic frame. You can clean the circuit board using rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. This will get rid of the corrosion and stop damage to the contact pads.
If your key isn't starting because of a broken ring, you may be able fix it by using a thick wire or nail to plug the hole. Superglue can also be used to repair a broken ring. After cleaning the ring with a moist cloth Apply a small amount superglue to each end of the wire or nail. Let the pieces dry and then press them in place. These DIY solutions can look appealing, but they're just temporary solutions. For long-term repairs, it's best to work with an expert locksmith. They have the experience and tools to repair a broken key quickly and effectively. They can replace the battery and reprogram the key fob, if needed.
Broken key repair car Blade
Some key blades can break due to a lot of wear and tear. If this happens, it's probably time to buy a new key. Luckily, this problem isn't as serious as it might seem at first glance. The primary problem is that the blade has snapped away from the case.
Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is a method to repair it. Then, you can employ pliers or tweezers grasp the broken end of the key and pull it. If the key is magnetic, you could also use a magnet to pull it out. Be cautious not to use a magnetic tool on an ignition key because it could cause the lock tumbler to break.
If you are unable to remove the broken piece from the key, call an emergency locksmith. They have tools that allow them to safely remove keys without causing damage.
You can also use super glue to fix a snapped key. Apply a small amount glue to the edges of the break and press them together. Wait until the glue has dried before you insert your key into the lock. But this method isn't very reliable and you may have repeat the process several times before it's successful. Plus the super glue might not be enough strong to keep the key in place. This is more of a temporary solution than a permanent solution.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the plastic loop gets damaged it could render the key useless. Fortunately, this is an simple fix. For a replacement alternative, you can opt for an extremely thick wire or a finishing nail. Drill two holes in the broken plastic loop at each end of the nail or wire. Cut the wire or nail to key width, then place tiny drops of superglue into each hole. Put the nail or wire into the holes to seal them and allow it to dry.
A locksmith who sells replacement shells is another option. They can transfer the programmable part of your key to the new shell and cut an entirely new blade at a fraction of the cost.
It's not the most ideal solution, but it can help you get back on the road if your key broke in half. However, it could be difficult to repair the blade of the key if it's in the ignition. If you're not careful you can employ a hair clip, or needle to remove the damaged part from the ignition. The best option is to call a locksmith with special tools to safely remove broken keys from the ignition. You can also have an entirely new key made using the proper cuts for the ignition of your car.
Broken Master Key
You'll have to attempt to retrieve the key before it becomes completely destroyed. You can make use of tweezers, lubricants, and needle nose pliers to grab the fragments of a damaged key.
To begin, spray the inside of your lock with a lubricant like graphite powder or WD-40. You can also employ the hacksaw blade technique that involves sliding the blade along the side of the broken key, and grasping onto a few of its teeth. If you're successful you will be able to cut the damaged key.
Another helpful tool is an extractor for keys spiral, that can be found in a wide range of hardware stores. This tool has a thin flexible rod with spiral threads that can be inserted in the keyway and then bent into the broken part of the key. Once it has gotten caught on the serrations you can twist the bar in a circle and pull it against the broken section of the key.
It's worth attempting to remove the master key that is broken before calling an expert locksmith. If you can't get a piece out, you need to call in the big guns to let a locksmith cut you a brand new key and reprogram it to your car's transponder.