How to Repair Car Keys
Car keys may appear tiny and insignificant, but they are essential for the proper operation of your vehicle. The cost of replacing a traditional or modern transponder car keys could be as high as $200.
There are ways to fix your car keys yourself for less than the cost. This article will discuss the most common car keys problems and the DIY solutions to fix them.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
The remote key fobs that are included with cars make it easier than ever to open the trunk, doors, and tailgate. The battery of this device is susceptible to dying. However, there are a few tricks you can employ to solve this problem in a pinch.
Check to see if the car is still in the ignition mode. If it is, then the battery on the key fob could simply be depleted instead of dead. To test this, press the button on the key fob against the ignition button. If it works, then the battery is probably fine and only needs to be replaced.
To replace the battery within the fob, pry open the case using the screwdriver. Be careful not to apply too much pressure as this could cause the fob to break apart. If the fob isn't coming easily, try putting your pry tool into several places around the outside of the case.
Once the fob is opened take out the mechanical key, and then open the electronic part of the car. Insert 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 your car's remote start system that requires a professional diagnosis. A reputable mechanic will be in a position to assist you if this is the situation. You can also reach out to roadside assistance to assist with your vehicle in case you need it.
Broken Key Ring
If your key fob won't work because the ring broke, there are a few options you can try. First, you must check to see if the broken piece is still in the ignition. If it's still there it, remove it without damaging either the ignition lock or the door lock. If you're having difficulty removing it, call a locksmith for assistance. They have tools that can safely remove a broken key from the ignition.
Another reason that can lead to broken car keys is corrosion on the circuit board or frame. You can clean the board with cotton swab. This will remove corrosion and ensure the contact pads aren't damaged.
If your key isn't starting because the ring broke or was damaged, you might be able to fix it with a strong wire or nail to close the hole. Superglue can be used to repair a broken key ring. First, clean the broken ring with a damp cloth and then apply a small amount superglue to each end of the wire or nail. Allow the pieces to dry, and then press them in place. These DIY solutions may sound appealing, but they're only a temporary solution. It is recommended to hire an expert locksmith for repairs that last. They have the knowledge and tools to fix damaged keys quickly and effectively. They can replace the battery and reprogram the key fob, if needed.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades may break due to wear and tear. If this happens, it's time to purchase a new key. Fortunately, this issue isn't as bad as it appears at first. The most significant issue is that the metal blade broke off from the case.
Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is a method to fix it. Then, you can use pliers tweezers, or a pin to grasp the end of the broken key and pull it out. If the key is magnetic, you could also try using a magnet to help pull it out. Use a magnet as a aid to you remove the key, but take care to not break the lock tumbler.
Contact a locksmith right away in the event that you are unable to remove the broken part of the key. They're equipped with special tools to safely remove keys without causing damage.
Super glue can be used to fix the snapped lock. Apply a small amount of the glue to the edges and press them in. Wait until the glue has dried before inserting your key into the lock. This method isn't reliable and you may have repeat the process several times before it is successful. Plus key repairs near me may not be strong enough to keep the key in place. Therefore, this is more of a stopgap measure than a permanent solution.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the loop of plastic on your key fob fails it could make the key useless. Luckily, this is an simple fix. You can use wire or a nail for finishing as a replacement. For each end of the wire or nail you need to drill two holes into the plastic loop. Cut the wire or nail to the desired width and then put a drop of superglue on each hole. Put the nail or wire into the holes to seal them and allow it to dry.
A locksmith who sells replacement shells is another option. They can take the programmable part of your key, then transfer it to the new shell, and cut a new blade for much less than a full replacement cost.
This is not the best solution, but it will help you get back on the road again if your key broken in half. It can be difficult to fix the key blade if it's in the ignition. You could try using hair clips or a needle extractor tool to pull the broken part out of the ignition, but it's risky if not careful. The best solution is to contact a locksmith who has special tools for safely removing damaged keys from the ignition. You can also request a new key made with the proper cuts for the ignition of your car.
Broken Master Key
If a key gets damaged inside the lock, you'll have to find it before it gets completely destroyed. You can employ tweezers, lubricants, and needle nose pliers for grabbing the broken fragment of a key.
Spray the inside of the lock with WD-40 or a graphite powder. web page could also try the hacksaw blade method that involves carefully moving the blade down the side of the broken key and hooking onto some of the 'teeth' - if you succeed in doing this, you should be able pull out the broken key from the lock.
Another tool that is useful is a spiral key extractor that can be found in a wide range of hardware stores. This tool is a thin flexible rod with spiral threads that can be placed in the keyway, and then bent to form the broken part of the key. Once it has been snagged onto the serrations, it is possible to twist it in a circular motion, and press it against the broken portion of the key to take it out.
It's worth trying to get rid of a master key that's broken prior to calling a professional locksmith. If you are unable to get a piece out, you need to call in the big guns - get a locksmith to cut you a new key and reprogram it with the transponder of your car.