How to Repair Car Keys
The car keys are tiny and may not seem important, but they're vital for the operation of your vehicle. Replacing key repair or a transponder key that is modern could cost as much as $200.
However, there are ways to fix your car keys at home with only a fraction of the cost. This article will discuss some of the most frequent car key problems and the DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
Cars come with a remote key fob which makes opening doors, trunk and tailgate easier than ever before. However, the battery in the device can fail. There are, however, a few techniques that can be employed to fix this issue in an emergency.
First, determine if the car is still in ignition mode. If so, the key fob's battery might be low instead of dead. To test this, press the button on the key fob right against the ignition button. If this works, the battery is probably fine and only has to be replaced.
To replace the battery within the fob, the case open using an screwdriver. Be cautious not to press too hard since this could cause the fob to break into two pieces. If the fob isn't opening Try using your pry tool several times around the outside of the case.
Open the electronic portion of your car once you have removed the mechanical key. Install the new battery and snap it back into the shell. If the key fob won't work after this, there may be a larger problem with the remote start system that requires a professional diagnostic. If this is the case, a trusted mechanic should be able to assist you. You can also call roadside assistance for assistance with your vehicle in case you need it.
Broken Key Ring
If your key fob won't work because the ring has broken, there are a few options you could try. Examine if you can find the broken piece within the ignition. If it is, you should remove it without damaging the door lock or ignition lock. Contact a locksmith if are having trouble getting rid of the key. They have the right tools to safely remove a damaged or broken key from the ignition.
Another reason that can lead to the car key breaking is the corrosion of the circuit board or frame. You can clean the circuit board using cotton swab. This will remove any corrosion and ensure the contact pads don't get damaged.
If your key won't start because the ring is broken, you may be able to fix it with a strong wire or nail to close the hole. You can also use superglue to fix a broken ring. First, clean the broken ring with a damp cloth and then apply a small amount of superglue on each end of the nail or wire. Then, press the pieces together and let them dry before using your vehicle. These DIY solutions might seem appealing, but they're only temporary solutions. It is recommended to hire an expert locksmith for repairs that last. They have the tools and knowledge to fix a broken car key quickly and effectively. They can even replace the battery in your key fob, and change it's programming if required.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades might break due to wear and tear. If this happens, it's time to buy a new key. Fortunately, this issue isn't as bad as it may appear at first. The primary issue is that the metal blade has snapped away from the case.
One method to fix this is to spray the key hole with lubricant. Then you can use pliers, pins, or tweezers to grasp the end of the broken key and pull it out. If the key is magnetic, you could also use a magnet to pull it out. Just be careful not to use a magnetic tool on an ignition key because it could cause the tumbler of the lock to break.
Contact a locksmith immediately when you are unable remove the broken piece of the key. They have special tools that can safely remove keys without causing further damage.
You can also apply 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 has dried before inserting your key into the lock. This method is not very secure, and you could have to repeat it a few times before it works. Super glue may not be able to hold the key together. This is more of a temporary measure rather than a permanent solution.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the loop of plastic on your key fob breaks, it can render the key useless. This is a simple fix. You can make use of wire or a nail for finishing as a replacement. Drill two holes in the broken plastic loop at each end of the nail or wire. Cut the wire or nail to the desired width, then place a small drop of superglue into each hole. Then, press the wire or nail into the holes and allow them to dry.
Another option is to purchase the replacement shell from a locksmith that sells them. They can transfer the programmable section of your key into the new shell, and then cut an entirely new blade at a fraction of the cost.
It's not the ideal solution, but it can bring you back on the road if your key snapped in half. However, it could be difficult to repair the key blade if it is in the ignition. If you're not careful you could make use of a hair clip or a needle to take the broken part from the ignition. Call a locksmith with special tools to safely remove broken keys from ignitions. They can also make you new keys with the correct cuts for your ignition, so it will work correctly when inserted into the lock.
Broken Master Key
You'll need to to retrieve the key before it becomes completely destroyed. There are a few techniques you can use, including using lubricants, tools, needle nose pliers and tweezers to pick up a piece of the broken key and remove it.
To begin, spray the inside of your lock with a lubricant such as WD-40 or graphite powder. You can also employ the hacksaw blade method by moving the blade across the face of the broken key, and then grasping a few of its 'teeth. If you're successful you will be able to remove the broken key.
Many hardware stores sell a spiral key extraction tool. car key and repair is a thin rod that is flexible and has spiral threads that can be inserted in the keyway, and later bent to the broken portion of the key. Once it has hooked onto the serrations, you can twist it in a circular motion, and press it against the broken part of the key to get it out.
It's worth trying to get rid of the master key that is broken before calling a professional locksmith. If you can't get an item out, you need to call the big guns to have a locksmith cut you a brand new key and reprogram it to the transponder in your car.