How to Repair Car Keys
Car keys might seem small and insignificant, but they are vital for the proper operation of your vehicle. Replacing a traditional key or a modern transponder key could cost as much as $200.
However, there are ways to fix your car keys at home with only a fraction of the cost. This article will discuss the most frequently encountered car keys issues and their DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
The remote key fobs that come with cars make it simpler than ever to open the trunk, doors, and tailgate. However, the battery inside the device could die. Fortunately, there are a few tricks you can employ to resolve this issue in the event of a need.
Check to see if your vehicle is in ignition mode. If it is, the key fob battery may simply be depleted instead of dead. To test, press the button on the fob against the ignition button on the vehicle. If this works, then the battery is probably in good condition and will only need to be changed.
To replace the battery inside the fob, the case open using a screwdriver. Be careful not to press too hard since this could cause the fob to break into two pieces. If the fob isn't coming easily, try putting your pry tool in multiple places on the outside of the case.
Once car key remote repair is open take out the mechanical key, and then open the electronic portion of the car. Then insert the replacement battery and snap the shell back together. If your key fob still does not work after this, it may be an problem with the remote start system in your car. This requires an expert to determine the cause. A trusted mechanic will be capable of helping you if this is the situation. If you need help 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 things you can try. First, you should check to see if the broken piece is still inside the ignition. If it is, you should remove it without damaging the door lock or ignition lock. If you're having difficulty taking it off, call a locksmith for help. They have the right tools to safely remove a damaged or broken key from the ignition.
Another common cause of the car key breaking is corrosion on the circuit board or frame. You can clean the board with rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. This will eliminate the corrosion and stop damage to the contact pads.
If your key won't start because the ring is broken or was damaged, you might be able fix it using a sturdy wire or nail to close the hole. Superglue can also be used to repair a damaged ring. After cleaning broken car key repair near me with a wet cloth Apply a small amount superglue to the ends of the wire or nail. Let the pieces dry and then press them together. These DIY solutions may sound appealing, but they're only a temporary solution. For long-term repairs, it's recommended to get an expert locksmith. They have the knowledge and tools to repair the broken key quickly and efficiently. They can replace the battery and reprogram the key fob if necessary.
Broken Key Blade
Key blades may break from a lot of wear and tear. If this occurs, you ought to buy a new one. This problem isn't nearly as serious as you might think at first. The problem is that the blade has broken off from the case.
One method to fix this is spraying the key hole with a oil-based lubricant. Then, you can use pliers, pins, or tweezers to grab the broken end of the key and take it out. You may also use a magnet if the key is magnetic. Use a magnet to help you remove the key, but take care to not break the tumbler of the lock.
Contact a locksmith right away if you are unable to take out the damaged part of the key. They're equipped with special tools that can safely remove keys without causing damage.
You can also try super glue to fix a snapped key. Apply a small amount glue to the edges of the break and press them together. After that, wait until the glue has dried before inserting your key into the lock. This method isn't secure and you may need to repeat the process a few times before it's successful. Super glue may not hold the key together. This is more of a temporary fix than a permanent one.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the loop of plastic on your key fob breaks, it can make the key ineffective. This is a relatively easy fix. To replace it alternative, you can opt for wire that is thick or a finishing nail. Drill two holes in the broken plastic loop for each end of the wire or nail. Cut the wire or nail to the desired width and then place a drop of superglue in each hole. Press the nail or wire into the holes and let them dry.
A locksmith who sells replacement shells is another option. They can transfer the programmable section of your key into the new shell and cut a brand new blade for less than the cost.
It's not the most ideal solution, but it'll bring you back on the road if your key split in half. It can be difficult to fix when the key blade is in the ignition however. You could try using a hair clip or needle extractor tool to pull the broken part out of the ignition, however it's risky if not careful. The best solution is to contact an expert locksmith who has tools for safely removing broken keys from the ignition. You can also get a new key that is made using the proper cuts for the ignition of your vehicle.
Broken Master Key
If a key gets damaged inside the lock, you'll need to try to retrieve it before it gets completely destroyed. There are several methods that you can try, such as using lubricants and tools like needle nose pliers or tweezers to take a small piece of the key that has been broken and remove it.
To start, spray the inside of your lock with a lubricant, such as graphite powder or WD-40. You could also try the hacksaw blade method, which involves gently sliding the blade along the side of the broken key and hooking onto some of the teeth - if you succeed in doing this you should be able to pull out the broken key from the lock.
Many hardware stores carry a spiral key extraction tool. This tool is a thin rod that is flexible and has spiral threads that can be placed in 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 direction and lever it against the broken section 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 the piece out, it's time to call the big guns - get a locksmith to cut you a new key and reprogram it to your car's transponder.