How to Repair Car Keys
Car keys might seem small and insignificant, but they are vital to the operation of your vehicle. Replacing an old key or a transponder one can cost upwards of $200.
There are solutions to fix your car keys yourself at a fraction of the price. This article will cover the most frequently encountered car keys problems and their DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
Cars come with a remote key fob that allows opening the doors, trunk and tailgate easier than ever before. However, the battery in the device could die. However, there are some techniques that can be employed to fix this issue in a pinch.
Check to see if the vehicle is in ignition mode. If it is the battery of the key fob may be low, but not dead. To test this, push the button on the key fob against the ignition button. If this is successful, the battery is likely fine and needs to be replaced.
To replace the battery within the fob, the case open using an screwdriver. Be careful not to press too hard as this could cause the fob to split into two pieces. If the fob won't open try prying the tool several times around the outside of the case.
Open the electronic portion of your car after you have removed the mechanical key. Install the new battery and then snap back the shell. If the key fob won't work after this, there may be a more serious issue with your car's remote start system that requires a professional diagnosis. A trusted mechanic will be able help you if this is the situation. If you require assistance with your car and you need help, you can call roadside assistance.
Broken Key Ring
There are a few options you can do if your key fob doesn't function because the ring is broken. Look to see if can locate the broken part inside the ignition. If it's still in there the ignition, take it out without damaging either the ignition lock or the door lock. Call a locksmith if you are having trouble getting rid of the key. They have specialized tools that allow you to safely remove the damaged key from the ignition.
A broken car key could also be the result of corrosion on the plastic frame or circuit board. Clean the board with cotton swab. This will remove corrosion and ensure that the contact pads don't become damaged.
You can fix a broken ring by using a thick wire or nail to seal the hole. Superglue can be used to fix a broken key ring. After cleaning the ring with a moist cloth Apply a small amount superglue to the ends of the wire or nail. Let the pieces dry and then press them into place. These DIY solutions may look appealing, but they're only a stopgap measure. It is best to employ an experienced locksmith for long-term repairs. They have the tools and expertise 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 from a lot of wear and tear. If this occurs, you ought to purchase a new one. key repairs isn't as serious as you might believe at first. The issue is that the metal blade has snapped away from the case.
One way to fix this is spraying the key hole with lubricant. You can then use pliers or tweezers to grasp the damaged end of the key and pull it. If the key is magnetic, you can also try using a magnetic tool to pull it out. Use a magnet to help you remove the key, but be careful to not damage the lock tumbler.
Contact a locksmith immediately if you are unable to take out the damaged part of the key. They have special tools that can safely remove keys without causing further damage.
Super glue can be used to fix the snapped lock. Apply a small amount glue to the edges of the break and press them together. Make sure the glue is dry before inserting the key into the lock. This method isn't secure and you may need to repeat the process a few times before it works. In addition the super glue may not be enough strong to hold the key together. This is more of a temporary solution rather than an option that is permanent.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the plastic loop on your key fob fails it could render the key useless. This is a simple fix. For a replacement alternative, you can use a thick wire or finishing nail. For each end of the wire or nail make two holes in the loop of plastic. Cut the wire or nail into a key width, and place a small drop of superglue in each hole. Then, press the wire or nail into the holes and let them dry.
Another option is to purchase an alternative shell from a locksmith who sells them. They can take the programmable component of your key, transfer it to the new shell and cut the new blade for less than the full replacement cost.
This isn't the most efficient solution, but it will help you get back on the road again if your key has been cut in half. It can be difficult to fix the key blade if it is in the ignition. If you're not cautious you could use a hair clip or a needle to remove the broken piece from the ignition. The best solution is to contact a locksmith who has special tools to safely remove broken keys from the ignition. They can also create new keys that have the correct cuts for your ignition and ensure it works perfectly when it is put into the lock.
Broken Master Key
If a key breaks inside the lock, you'll have to find it before it's completely destroyed. You can employ lubricants, tweezers, and needle nose pliers for grabbing the fragments of a damaged key.
Spray the inside of the lock with WD-40 or a graphite powder. You can also use hacksaw blades that involves moving the blade across the face of a broken key and grasping onto a few of its teeth.' If you are successful you will be able to take the broken key out.
Another helpful tool is a spiral key extractor which you can find in a variety of hardware stores. This tool has a thin rod that is flexible and has spiral threads that can be inserted into the keyway and then bent to form the broken part of the key. Once it is hooked to the serrations, you can twist it in a circular motion and press it against the broken portion of the key to take it out.
Before calling a locksmith, attempt to take out the damaged master key. If you're unable to remove the broken piece it's time to contact a professional locksmith. Locksmiths can create you an entirely new key that will be programmed to the transponder of your car.