How to Repair Car Keys
The car keys are small and may not seem important, but they're essential for the proper operation of your vehicle. The cost of replacing a traditional or contemporary transponder car key could be as high as $200.
However, there are ways to repair your car keys at home with a fraction of the cost. This article will go over some of the most frequent car keys issues and the DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
Cars are equipped with remote key fobs that makes opening the doors, trunk and tailgate easier than ever. The battery of this device is prone to dying. There are, however, some techniques that can be employed to resolve this issue in an emergency.
First, make sure that the car is in ignition mode. If it is, the key fob battery may be drained instead of dead. To test, press the fob's button against the ignition button of the vehicle. If this does not work, the battery is probably working fine and just needs to be replaced.
To replace the battery within the fob, you need to open the case using the screwdriver. Don't apply too much force, as this may cause the fob's casing to split. If the fob isn't coming open easily, try wedge your pry tool into several places on the outside of the case.
Open the electronic compartment of your car after you have removed the mechanical key. Then insert the replacement battery and then snap the shell back together. If your key fob still doesn't work after this procedure, it could be that there is a larger problem with the remote start system of your car. This requires an expert to determine the cause. If this is the case, a trusted mechanic should be able to assist you. 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 isn't working because the ring has broken, there are a few options you can try. Look to see if can locate the broken part in the ignition. If it is, you should remove it without damaging the door lock or ignition lock. If you're having difficulty getting it out, contact a locksmith for assistance. They have special tools to safely remove a damaged or broken key from the ignition.
Another reason for the car key breaking is corrosion on the circuit board or frame. Clean the board with the help of rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. This will eliminate corrosion and ensure that the contact pads don't become damaged.
You can repair a damaged ring by using a thick nail or wire to close the hole. You can also use superglue to repair a damaged ring. After cleaning the ring with a wet cloth apply a small amount of superglue to the ends of the wire or nail. Let the pieces dry and then press them together. These DIY solutions can appear appealing, but they're just a stopgap measure. For long-term repairs, you'll want to get an experienced locksmith. They have the tools and expertise to fix a broken car key quickly and efficiently. They can even replace the battery in your key fob and modify it if necessary.
Broken Key Blade
Key blades can break due to wear and tear. If this occurs, you must buy a new one. Luckily, this problem isn't as bad as it may appear at first. The problem is that the metal blade has broken off from the case.
One way to fix this is spraying the key hole with lubricant. Then you can use pliers, tweezers, or a pin to grab the damaged key and remove it. If the key is magnetic, you could also use a magnet to assist in pulling it out. Use a magnet as a aid to you remove the key, but be careful to not damage the tumbler of the lock.
Call a locksmith immediately when you are unable remove the broken part of the key. They have the right tools to safely extract keys without causing damage.
Super glue can be used to fix a snapped lock. Apply a small amount of the glue to the edges and press them together. Wait until the glue dries before you insert your key into the lock. But this method isn't very reliable and you may have to repeat the process multiple times before it is successful. Super glue may not be able to hold the key together. Therefore, this is more of a stopgap measure than a permanent solution.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the loop of plastic on your key fob breaks it could make the key useless. Fortunately, this is an easy fix. You can use thick wire or a nail for finishing to replace it. Make car key fob repairs in the damaged loop of plastic at each end of the wire or nail. Cut the wire or nail to the desired width, then place one drop of superglue in each hole. Then, press the wire or nail into the holes to close them and let it dry.
A locksmith who sells replacement shells is another option. They can transfer the programmable part of your key to the new shell and cut new blades for a fraction of the cost.
key repairs isn't the best solution, but it will help you get back on the road again if your key has split in half. It's not easy to repair when the key blade is in the ignition however. You could try using hair clips or needle extractor tool to remove the damaged part out of the ignition, however it's risky if not careful. Contact a locksmith who has special tools to safely remove broken keys from ignitions. You can also request an entirely new key made using the proper cuts for the ignition of your car.
Broken Master Key
You'll need to at regaining the key before it's completely destroyed. There are a few techniques you can employ, such as using lubricants, tools, needle nose pliers or tweezers to grab a fragment of the key that has been broken and then remove it.
To begin, spray the inside of your lock with a lubricant like graphite powder or WD-40. You can also use hacksaw blades that involves moving the blade across the face of the broken key, and grabbing onto some of its 'teeth.' If you are successful, you should be in a position to remove the broken key.
Another helpful tool is a spiral key extractor that can be found in a wide range of hardware stores. It is a thin rod with spiral threads that can be inserted in the keyway, and later bent to form the broken part of the key. Once it has hooked onto the serrations, you can turn it in a circular motion and push it against the damaged portion of the key to take it out.
It's worth attempting to remove a master key that's broken prior to calling an expert locksmith. If you can't get a piece out, it's time to call in the big guns to let a locksmith make you a brand new key and reprogram it with the transponder in your car.