How to Repair Car Keys
The car keys are tiny and may not seem important, but they're essential for the operation of your car. The cost of replacing the traditional or modern transponder car keys can range from $200 to upwards of $200.
There are ways to fix your car keys yourself for just a fraction of the cost. This article will discuss some of the most common car keys issues and their DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
The remote key fobs that come with cars make it easier than ever before to open the trunk, doors and the tailgate. The battery in this device is prone to dying. There are some tricks you can employ to fix this issue quickly.
Check to see if your car is still in the ignition mode. If so, the key fob's battery might be low instead of dead. To test this, press the button on the key fob right against the ignition button. If this works, the battery is probably fine and just needs to be replaced.
To replace the battery inside the fob, open the case with the screwdriver. Be keys repair not to put too much pressure on the fob because this could cause the fob to split in two. If the fob won't open try prying the tool several times around the outside of the case.
Open the electronic part of your car once you have removed the mechanical key. Insert the new battery and snap it back into the shell. If your key fob isn't working after this, it may be an problem with the remote starting system of your vehicle. This requires an expert to determine the cause. If this is the case, a reputable mechanic should be able assist you. If you require assistance with your car and you need help, you can call roadside assistance.
Broken Key Ring
There are a few options that you can do if your key fob doesn't work because the ring has been broken. The first step is to see if the broken piece is still inside the ignition. If it is, you should remove it without damaging the ignition lock or door lock. If you are having trouble taking it off, call a locksmith for assistance. They have tools that can safely remove a damaged key from the ignition.
A damaged car key could also be the result of corrosion of the plastic frame or circuit board. Clean the circuit board using the help of rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. This will get rid of the corrosion and protect to the contact pads.
If your key won't start because the ring broke or was damaged, you might be able fix it by using a thick wire or nail to close the hole. Superglue can also be used to repair a damaged ring. First, clean the damaged ring with a damp cloth and then apply a small amount of superglue to the ends of the nail or wire. Allow the pieces to dry, and then press them in place. These DIY solutions might seem appealing, but they are only a temporary measure. For long-term repairs, it's best to get a professional locksmith. They have the experience and tools to repair the broken key quickly and effectively. They can replace the battery and reprogram the key fob, if needed.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades break from a lot of wear and tear. If this happens, you should probably purchase a new one. Luckily, this problem isn't as serious as it may appear at first. electronic car key repair near me is that the metal blade broke off from the case.
One solution is spraying the key hole with a oil-based lubricant. You can then employ pliers or tweezers grasp the damaged end of the key and pull it. If the key is magnetic, you could also try using a magnetic tool to assist in pulling it out. Be cautious not to use a magnetic tool on an ignition key as it could cause the tumbler in the lock to break.
Contact a locksmith immediately if you are unable to remove the broken piece of the key. They're equipped with special tools to safely remove keys without causing further damage.
Super glue can be used to fix a snapped lock. Apply a small amount of glue to the edges and press them in. Make sure the glue has dried before inserting the key into the lock. This method isn't extremely secure, and you could have to repeat it several times before it does the trick. Super glue may not hold the key together. This is more of a temporary solution rather than a permanent solution.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the loop of plastic on your key fob fails, it can cause the key to become ineffective. This is a simple fix. You can make use of wire or a finishing nail as a replacement. For each end of the nail or wire, drill two holes into the loop of plastic. Cut the wire or nail into a key width, and then place one drop of superglue in each hole. Put the nail or wire into the holes until it closes them and let it dry.
Another option is to get an alternative shell from a locksmith that sells them. They can transfer the programmable section of your key into the new shell, and then cut new blades for only a fraction of the price.
This is not the best option, but it can get you on the road again if your key has broken in half. It's not easy to fix when the key blade is inside the ignition, however. If you're not cautious you could use a hair clip or a needle to take the damaged part from the ignition. Contact a locksmith who has special tools to safely remove damaged keys from ignitions. They can also create a new key with the appropriate cuts for your vehicle's ignition, so it will work correctly when inserted into the lock.
Broken Master Key
If a key gets damaged inside the lock, you'll need to find it before it is completely destroyed. There are a few techniques you can use, including using lubricants as well as tools such as needle nose pliers or tweezers to pick up a piece of the key that has been broken and remove it.
Spray the inside of your lock with WD-40 or a graphite powder. You can 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 remove the broken key from the lock.
Another useful tool is a spiral key extractor that is available in a wide range of hardware stores. It is a thin flexible rod with spiral threads that can be inserted into the keyway and then bent to the broken portion 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 section of the key to get it out.
It's worth trying to get rid of the master key that is broken before calling a professional locksmith. If you're unable to pull a piece out, you need to call the big guns - let a locksmith make you a brand new key and reprogram it to your car's transponder.