How to Repair Car Keys
Car keys may seem small and insignificant, but they are essential to the operation of your vehicle. Replacing a traditional key or a transponder one could cost as much as $200.
There are many ways to repair your car keys yourself at a fraction of the price. This article will discuss the most frequently encountered car keys issues and the DIY solutions to fix them.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
Cars are equipped with a remote key fob that allows opening the doors, trunk and tailgate easier than ever. The battery inside the device is prone to dying. There are repair car key can employ to fix this issue fast.
Check to see if your vehicle is still in ignition mode. If Learn Additional Here is, the battery of the key fob may simply be low instead of dead. To test this, push the button on the key fob straight up against the vehicle's ignition button. If this is successful, the battery is probably in good condition and only needs to be replaced.
To replace the fob battery, start by prying the case open using a screwdriver or watch-type tool. Be careful not to apply too much force, as this may cause the fob's casing to split. If the fob doesn't open, try using your pry tool more than once around the outside of case.
Once the fob is open, remove the mechanical key, and then open the electronic section of the car. Then insert the replacement battery and then snap the shell back together. If the key fob doesn't work after this procedure, it could be that there is a larger problem with the remote starting system of your car. This will require a professional to diagnose. If this is the case, a reliable mechanic should be able assist you. You can also call roadside assistance to assist with your vehicle if needed.
Broken Key Ring
There are a few things you can do in the event that your key fob won't work because the ring is broken. Look to see if can locate the broken piece inside the ignition. If it's still inside it, remove it without damaging either the ignition lock or the door lock. If you have trouble removing it, call a locksmith for assistance. They have tools that can safely remove a broken key from the ignition.
Another common cause of broken car keys is the corrosion of the circuit board or plastic frame. You can clean the circuit board using a cotton swab with ruby alcohol. This will remove any corrosion and ensure that the contact pads don't get damaged.
You can repair a damaged ring by using a thick wire or nail to seal the hole. Superglue can also be used to repair 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 wire or nail. Let the pieces dry and then press them into place. These DIY solutions can appear appealing, but they're just a stopgap measure. It's best to hire an skilled locksmith for any long-term repairs. They have the experience and tools to repair a broken key quickly and efficiently. They can even replace the battery on the key fob and change it's programming if required.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades may break due to wear and tear. If Suggested Looking at happens, it's probably time to purchase a new key. Fortunately, the issue isn't as serious as it may appear at first glance. The problem is that the blade has snapped away from the case.
One way to fix this is to spray the key hole with lubricant. Then you can use pliers tweezers, or a pin to grasp the end of the broken key and remove it. You may also employ a magnet in the event that the key is magnetic. Be careful not to use a magnet on an ignition key as it could cause the lock tumbler to break.
Call a locksmith immediately when you are unable remove the broken part of the key. They have special tools that let them safely remove keys without causing further damage.
Super glue can be used to fix an open lock that has snapped. Apply a small amount glue to the edges of the crack and press them together. Make sure the glue has dried before inserting the key into the lock. This method is not very secure, and you could need to repeat the process several times before it does the trick. Plus the super glue might not be enough strong to hold the key together. This is more of a temporary fix than a permanent one.
Broken Plastic Loop
If your key fob's plastic loop is damaged, it can make the key ineffective. It's a fairly simple fix. You can make use of wire or a finishing nail to replace it. Drill two holes into the broken plastic loop for each end of the nail or wire. Cut the wire or nail into a key width, and then place one drop of superglue in each hole. Then, press the wire or nail into the holes and allow them to dry.
A locksmith who sells replacement shells is an alternative option. They can transfer the programmable part of your key to the new shell, and then cut new blades for only a fraction of the price.
It's not the best solution, but it can help you get back on the road in case your key snapped in half. It can be difficult to repair the blade of the key if it's in the ignition. If you're not careful you could use a hair clip or needle to remove the broken piece from the ignition. Contact a locksmith who has special tools to safely remove broken keys from ignitions. You can also request a new key made with the correct cuts for the ignition of your vehicle.
Broken Master Key
You'll need to try at regaining the key before it is completely destroyed. You can use the tweezers, lubricants and needle nose pliers to grab the fragment of a broken key.
To start, spray the inside of your lock with a lubricant, such as graphite powder or WD-40. You could also try the hacksaw method, that involves carefully sliding the blade along the edge of the broken key, and attaching it to the 'teeth'. If you succeed in doing this, you will be able to remove the broken key from the lock.
Another tool that is useful is a spiral key extractor that can be found in many hardware stores. This tool is a thin flexible rod with spiral threads that can be inserted into the keyway, and then bent into the broken part of the key. Once it has been snagged onto the serrations, you can turn it in a circular direction and press it against the broken portion of the key to take it out.
Before calling a locksmith, try to get rid of the broken master key before calling a locksmith. If you can't get a piece out, it's time to call in the big guns to let a locksmith cut you a new key and reprogram it to your car's transponder.