How to Repair Car Keys
Car keys might seem tiny and insignificant, but they are vital to the operation of your vehicle. Replacing a traditional key or a transponder one could cost as much as $200.
However, there are ways to fix your car keys at home with less than. This article will address the most frequent car keys issues and their DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
Cars come with remote key fobs that allows opening the doors, trunk and tailgate easier than ever before. The battery in this device is susceptible to dying. There are a few tricks you can employ to fix this issue fast.
First, check if the car is still in ignition mode. If it is, then the battery of the key fob may be drained instead of dead. To test this, press the button on the key fob right towards the ignition button. If it does not work, the battery is probably working fine and needs to be replaced.
To replace the battery in the fob, open the case with a screwdriver. Be cautious not to apply too much pressure because this could cause the fob's to split apart. If the fob doesn't open Try using your pry tool more than once around the outside of case.
Open the electronic compartment of your car once you have removed the mechanical key. Insert the new battery and snap it back into the shell. If the key fob doesn't work after this procedure, there could be a larger issue with your car's remote start system that requires a professional diagnosis. If this is the case, a trusted mechanic should be able assist you. If you require assistance with your car, you can contact roadside assistance.
Broken Key Ring
If your key fob isn't working because the ring broke there are a few options you could try. Check to see if you can find the broken piece in the ignition. If it's still there the ignition, take it out without damaging the ignition lock or the door lock. Contact a locksmith if are having trouble getting rid of the key. They have special tools that can safely remove a damaged key from the ignition.
A damaged car key could also be the result of corrosion on the plastic frame or circuit board. You can clean the circuit board by using a cotton swab with rubbing alcohol. This will get rid of the corrosion and stop damage to the contact pads.
If your key won't start because the ring broke it, you might be able fix it using a sturdy wire or nail to seal the hole. Superglue can be used to repair a broken key ring. After cleaning the ring with a wet cloth apply a small amount of superglue on each end of the wire or nail. Let the pieces dry and then press them into place. These DIY solutions can look appealing, but they're only a stopgap measure. For long-term repairs, it's best to hire an expert 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 necessary.
Broken Key Blade
Key blades can break due to wear and tear. If this occurs, you must purchase a new one. This problem isn't nearly as serious as you might think at first. The main issue is that the metal blade has broken off from the case.
Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is one method to repair it. Then, you can employ pliers or tweezers grasp the damaged 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. Just be careful not to use a magnetic tool on an ignition key since it could cause the lock tumbler to break.
If you're not able to take the broken piece of the key, call a locksmith right away. They're equipped with special tools to safely remove keys without causing any further damage.
Super glue can be used to fix an open lock that has snapped. 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. However, this method isn't secure and you may need repeat the process several times before it is successful. car key repair service may not be able to hold the key in place. This is more of a temporary solution than a permanent solution.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the plastic loop on your key fob is damaged it could render the key ineffective. It's an easy fix. You can use wire or a finishing nail to replace it. Drill two holes into the plastic loop that is broken for each end of the nail or wire. Cut the wire or nail into a key width, and then place one drop of superglue into each hole. Put the nail or wire into the holes until it closes them and let it dry.
A locksmith who sells replacement shells is a different option. They can transfer the programmable portion 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 get you back on the road in case your key split in half. It can be difficult to fix if the key blade is in the ignition, however. If you're not careful you could make use of a hair clip or needle to remove the damaged part from the ignition. The best solution is to call an expert locksmith who has tools for safely removing damaged keys from the ignition. You can also get a new key that is made using the proper cuts for the ignition of your car.
Broken Master Key
If a key gets damaged inside the lock, you'll need to attempt to retrieve it before it's completely destroyed. You can make use of the tweezers, lubricants and needle nose pliers to grasp the fragment of a broken key.
Spray the inside of your lock with WD-40 or a graphite powder. You may also try the hacksaw blade method which involves gently moving the blade down the edge of the broken key, and hooking onto some of the 'teeth' - if you succeed in doing this, you will be able to pull out the broken key from the lock.
Many hardware stores offer the spiral key extraction tool. This has a thin flexible bar with spiral threads which can be inserted into the keyway, and then bent to reach into the broken part of the key. Once it is hooked to the serrations, you can twist it in a circular direction and lever it against the broken portion of the key to pull it out.
It's worth trying to remove a broken master key before calling an expert locksmith. If you are unable to get the piece out, you need to call the big guns - let a locksmith cut you a brand new key and reprogram it using your car's transponder.