How to Repair Car Keys
Car keys may appear tiny and insignificant, however they are crucial for the proper operation of your vehicle. The cost of replacing a traditional or contemporary transponder car key can range from $200 to upwards of $200.
There are ways to fix your car keys yourself at less than the cost. This article will discuss some of the most common car keys problems and their DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
Cars come with a remote key fob that makes opening the doors and trunk easier than ever. The battery of the device is prone to dying. There are a few strategies you can employ to fix this issue quickly.
First, make sure that the car is in ignition mode. If it is, the battery of the key fob may simply be low instead of dead. To test this, press the fob's button against the ignition button of the vehicle. If it does not work, the battery is probably fine and only needs to be replaced.
To replace the battery within the fob, you need to open the case using a screwdriver. Be car key repair near me not to apply too much force, as this could cause the fob's case split. If the fob doesn't seem to be coming open easily, try wedge your pry tool into several places on the outside of the case.
Once the fob is open then remove the mechanical key and then open the electronic section of the car. Insert the new battery and then snap back the shell. If the key fob won't work after this, there may be a bigger issue with your car's remote start system that requires a professional diagnostic. A trusted mechanic will be capable of helping you in this situation. You can also contact roadside assistance for help with your vehicle if needed.
Broken Key Ring
There are a few things to do in the event that your key fob won't function because the ring is broken. First, you must check to see if the broken piece is still in the ignition. If it is, you should remove it without damaging the door lock or ignition lock. Call a locksmith if you have difficulty removing the key. They have specialized tools that allow you to safely remove a damaged key from the ignition.
A broken car key could be caused by corrosion of the plastic frame or circuit board. You can clean the circuit board using a cotton swab with ruby alcohol. This will get rid of the corrosion and protect to the contact pads.
You can repair a damaged ring by using a thick wire or nail to close the hole. Superglue can be used to fix damaged key rings. First, clean the broken rings with a damp cloth and then apply a small amount superglue to each end of the wire or nail. Then, press the pieces together and let them dry prior to using your vehicle. These DIY solutions might seem appealing, however they are only temporary solutions. It is recommended to hire an expert locksmith for repairs that last. They have the knowledge and tools to fix a broken key quickly and effectively. They can replace the battery and reprogram the key fob in the event of need.
Broken Key Blade
Key blades may break because of a lot wear and tear. If this happens, you should probably purchase a new one. Luckily, this problem isn't as bad as it may appear at first glance. The primary problem is that the metal blade has separated from the case.
Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is a solution to fix the problem. Then, you can employ pliers or tweezers grab the broken end of the key and pull it. You can also use a magnet if the key is magnetic. Use a magnet to help you remove the key, but take care to not sever the lock tumbler.
Contact a locksmith immediately if you are unable to take out the damaged 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 a snapped lock. Apply a small amount of glue to the edges and press them in. Make sure the glue is dry before inserting the key into the lock. This method isn't extremely secure, and you could have to repeat it several times before it is successful. Super glue may not be able to hold the key together. This is more of a stopgap measure than an option that can last.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the plastic loop breaks off, it can make the key ineffective. It's a fairly simple fix. For a replacement alternative, you can opt for an extremely thick wire or a finishing nail. Make two holes in the plastic loop that is broken for each end of the nail or wire. Cut the wire or nail to the desired width, and place tiny drops of superglue in each hole. Press the nail or wire into the holes and allow them to dry.
A locksmith who sells replacement shells is a different option. They can transfer the programmable section of your key to the new shell and cut an entirely new blade at less than the cost.
It's not the best solution, but it will help you get back on the road in case your key broke in half. It's difficult to fix when the blade of the key is in the ignition however. If you're not cautious you could make use of a hair clip or a needle to remove the broken piece from the ignition. The best choice is to call an expert locksmith who has tools for safely removing broken keys from the ignition. They can also design a new key with the appropriate cuts for the ignition of your vehicle, so it will work perfectly when it is put into the lock.
Broken Master Key
You'll need to try to retrieve the key before it's completely destroyed. There are a few techniques you can use, including using lubricants and tools like needle nose pliers and tweezers to take a small piece of the damaged key and remove it.
To begin, spray car key fob repair near me of your lock with a lubricant, such as graphite powder or WD-40. You can also employ the hacksaw blade method by sliding the blade across the face of a broken key and grasping onto a few of its teeth. If you're successful then you should be able to cut the damaged key.
Many hardware stores sell the spiral key extraction tool. It's a thin and flexible bar with spiral threads which can be put into the keyway, and then bent to get into the broken section of the key. Once it has gotten caught on the serrations, you can turn the bar in a circle and then pull it against the broken section of the key.
It's worth trying to remove a broken master key before calling a professional locksmith. If you're unable to get rid of the broken piece, you'll need to contact a professional locksmith. A locksmith can give you a new key that can be programmed with the transponder of your car.