How to Repair Car Keys
Car keys might seem tiny and insignificant, but they are essential to the functioning of your vehicle. The cost of replacing an old or modern transponder car keys can be upwards to $200.
There are methods to fix your car keys at home for only a fraction of the cost. This article will cover the most common car keys issues as well as their DIY fixes.
Dead Key Fob Battery
Cars are equipped with a remote key fob which makes opening doors and trunk easier than ever before. The battery in this device is susceptible to dying. There are a few tricks you can use to solve this issue quickly.
Check to see if your vehicle is in ignition mode. If it is, then the key fob battery may simply be depleted instead of dead. To test this, press the fob's button against the ignition button of the vehicle. If this works, then the battery is probably fine and will only need to be changed.
To replace the battery inside the fob, pry open the case using an screwdriver. Be cautious not to apply too much pressure as this could cause the fob to break in two. If the fob doesn't seem to be coming easily, try putting your pry tool in several places on the outside of the case.
Open the electronic compartment of your car once you have removed the mechanical key. Then insert the replacement battery and then snap the shell together. If the key repair car fob isn't working after this, there could be a larger problem with your car's remote start system that requires a professional to diagnose. If this is the case, a reputable mechanic should be able help you. You can also contact roadside assistance to assist with your vehicle in case you need it.
Broken Key Ring
There are a few options you can do in the event that your key fob won't function because the ring is broken. Look to see if can locate the broken part within the ignition. If it's still there, remove it without damaging the ignition lock or the door lock. Call a locksmith if you are having trouble getting rid of the key. They have tools that are able to safely remove the damaged key from the ignition.
A damaged car key could also be caused by corrosion of the plastic frame or circuit board. You can clean the circuit board by using a cotton swab soaked in ruby alcohol. This will eliminate corrosion and ensure that the contact pads aren't damaged.
If your key won't start because of a broken ring or was damaged, you might be able to repair key fob it with a strong wire or nail to close the hole. Superglue can also be used to repair a broken ring. After cleaning the ring using a damp cloth Apply a small amount superglue to the ends of the nail or wire. Allow the pieces to dry, and then press them into place. These DIY solutions may sound appealing, but they are only a temporary solution. For long-term repairs, it's best to hire a professional locksmith. They have the tools and expertise to repair a damaged car key quickly and efficiently. They can replace the battery and reprogram your key fob, if needed.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades can break because of a lot wear and tear. If this occurs, you ought to buy a new one. Fortunately, this issue isn't as bad as it might seem at first. The main problem is that the blade broke off from the case.
Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is a way to fix it. Then, you can use pliers or tweezers to grasp the broken end of the key and pull it. If the key is magnetic, you can also try using a magnetic tool to help pull it out. Use a magnet to help you remove the key, but be cautious to not sever the lock tumbler.
If you're unable to take the broken piece of key, contact an emergency locksmith. They have the right tools to safely extract keys without causing damage.
You can also apply super glue to fix a snapped key. Apply a small amount of glue to the edges of the crack and press them together. Then, wait until the glue dries before inserting your key into the lock. But this method isn't very secure and you may need repeat the process several times before it's successful. Plus the super glue may not be enough to hold the key together. Therefore, this is more of a temporary measure than a permanent solution.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the loop of plastic on your key fob is damaged it could make the key ineffective. This is a simple fix. You can make use of wire or a finishing nail to replace it. For each end of the wire or nail, drill two holes into the plastic loop. Cut the wire or nail to the desired width, and then place tiny drops of superglue into each hole. Then, press the wire or nail into the holes and let them dry.
A locksmith who sells replacement shells is another option. They can transfer the programmable part of your key into the new shell, and then cut an entirely new blade at only a fraction of the price.
It's not the most ideal solution, but it'll help you get back on the road if your key split in half. However, it can be difficult to repair car Key - pattern-wiki.win - the blade of the key if it's in the ignition. If you're not careful you can make use of a hair clip or a needle to take the broken piece from the ignition. Call a locksmith with special tools to safely remove damaged keys repair from ignitions. You can also request an entirely new key made using the correct cuts to fit the ignition of your car.
Broken Master Key
You'll have to attempt in vain to recover the key before it's completely destroyed. There are several methods that you can try, such as using lubricants as well as tools such as needle nose pliers and tweezers to grab a fragment of the broken key and remove it.
To begin, spray the interior of your lock with a lubricant such as graphite powder or WD-40. You can also try the hacksaw blade method, which involves carefully sliding the blade down along the side of the broken key and attaching it to the 'teeth'. If you are able to do this you should be able to pull out the broken key from the lock.
Many hardware stores carry the spiral key extraction tool. This tool is a thin flexible rod with spiral threads that can be placed in the keyway, and then bent to form the broken part of the key. Once it has been snagged onto the serrations, it is possible to twist it in a circular motion, and lever it against the broken section of the key to take it out.
Before contacting a locksmith, try to get rid of the broken master key. If you're not able to get rid of the broken piece, you'll need to call in the professionals. Locksmiths can create you a new key that can be programmed using the transponder in your car.