How to Repair Car Keys
Car keys may appear tiny and insignificant, however they are essential to the operation of your vehicle. Replacing a traditional key or a modern transponder key can cost upwards of $200.
However, there are ways to fix your car keys at home with less than. This article will cover the most common car keys problems and their DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
Cars are equipped with remote key fobs which makes opening doors and trunk easier than ever. The battery of the device is prone to dying. There are some tricks you can employ to fix this problem quickly.
Examine if your vehicle is still in ignition mode. If it is, then the battery on the key fob could simply be low instead of dead. To test this, press the button on the key fob right against the ignition button. If it does not work, the battery is probably working fine and only has to be replaced.
To replace the fob's battery, start by prying open the case with a screwdriver or watch-type tool. Don't apply too much force as this may cause the fob's case to split. If the fob doesn't seem to be coming open with ease, try placing your pry tool into more than one place around the outside of the case.
Open the electronic compartment of your vehicle after you have removed the mechanical key. Then, you can insert the replacement battery and then snap the shell together. If the key fob won't work after this, there may be a bigger issue with your car's remote start system that requires a professional diagnosis. If this is the case, a reputable mechanic should be able to assist you. If you require assistance with your vehicle and you need help, you can call roadside assistance.
Broken Key Ring
There are a few things to do in the event that your key fob won't work because the ring is broken. First, you should check to see if the damaged piece is still inside the ignition. If it is, you should remove it without damaging the door lock or ignition lock. If you have trouble taking it off, call a locksmith for help. They have special tools to safely remove a damaged key from the ignition.
Another reason for a broken car key is corrosion on the circuit board or frame. It is possible to clean the circuit board using rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. This will remove corrosion and ensure the contact pads don't get damaged.
You can repair a damaged ring by using a thick nail or wire to close the hole. Superglue can be used to fix a broken key ring. First, clean the broken rings with a damp cloth and then apply a small amount superglue to each end of the nail or wire. Let the pieces dry and then press them into place. These DIY solutions may look appealing, but they're only temporary solutions. For long-term repairs, it's best to hire an experienced locksmith. related web-site have the tools and knowledge to repair a damaged car key quickly and effectively. They can replace the battery and reprogram the key fob in the event of need.
Broken Key Blade
Key blades may break due to a lot of wear and tear. If this occurs, you ought to buy a new blade. This problem isn't nearly as serious as you might think at first. The problem is that the blade has snapped away from the case.
Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is a solution to repair it. You can then employ pliers or tweezers grab the broken end of the key and pull it. If the key is magnetic, you can also try using a magnetic tool to pull it out. Be careful not to use a magnet on an ignition key since it could cause the tumbler of the lock to break.
Call a locksmith immediately if you are unable to remove the broken piece of the key. They have the right tools that can safely remove keys without causing further damage.
Super glue can be used to fix the snapped lock. Apply a small amount of glue to the edges and press them in. After that, wait until the glue has dried before you insert your key into the lock. This method isn't very reliable, and you may have to repeat it a few times before it works. Super glue may not hold the key in place. This is more of a temporary solution than a permanent one.
Broken Plastic Loop
If your key fob's plastic loop is damaged it could render the key ineffective. Fortunately, this is a fairly simple fix. For a replacement, you can use wire that is thick or a finishing nail. For each end of the nail or wire, drill two holes into the loop of plastic. Cut the nail or wire to key width and place a drop of superglue on each hole. Apply the nail or wire into the holes and let them 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 cut an entirely new blade at a fraction of the cost.
This isn't the most efficient option, but it can help you get back on the road again if your key has been cut in half. It's difficult to repair if the key blade is in the ignition however. If you're not careful, you can use a hair clip or a needle to take the broken piece from the ignition. The best option is to contact a locksmith who has special tools for safely removing damaged keys from the ignition. They can also make you new keys that have the appropriate cuts for your vehicle's ignition, so it will work correctly when inserted into the lock.
Broken Master Key
If a key is broken inside the lock, you'll need to find it before it is completely destroyed. There are a variety of methods you can employ, such as using lubricants, tools, needle nose pliers and tweezers. These tools can take a small piece of the broken key and pull it out.
Spray the inside of your lock with WD-40 or graphite powder. You may also try the hacksaw method, that involves carefully moving the blade down the edge of the broken key, and connecting to a few of the teeth - if you are able to do this you should be able to take the broken key from the lock.
Many hardware stores sell a 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 part of the key. Once it is hooked to the serrations, it is possible to 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 remove the master key that is broken before calling an expert locksmith. If you're not able to take the broken piece off then you'll have to call a locksmith. A locksmith can give you a new key that can be programmed with the transponder in your car.