How to Repair Car Keys
The car keys are small and might not seem to be important, but they are essential to the functioning of your car. The cost of replacing a traditional or modern transponder car key can be upwards to $200.
There are solutions to fix your car keys yourself at less than the cost. This article will discuss the most frequently encountered car keys issues and their DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Battery
The remote key fobs that come with cars make it easier than ever before to open the trunk, doors, and the tailgate. repair car key inside the device is prone to dying. There are a few tricks you can use to solve this problem quickly.
Examine if your vehicle is still in ignition mode. If it is, the key fob battery may simply be depleted instead of dead. To test this, push the button on the key fob right towards the ignition button. If this works, then the battery is probably in good condition and just needs to be replaced.
To replace the fob's battery, first pry the case open using a screwdriver or watch-type tool. Be cautious not to put too much pressure on the fob as this could cause the fob's to split into two pieces. If the fob doesn't seem to be coming open easily, try wedge your pry tool in multiple places on the outside of the case.
Once the fob is open take out the mechanical key and then open the electronic portion of the car. Install the new battery and snap back the shell. If your key fob still does not work after this, it could be that there is a larger problem with the remote start system of your vehicle. This requires an expert to identify. If this is the case, a reputable mechanic should be able help you. You can also call roadside assistance for assistance with your vehicle, if you require it.
Broken Key Ring
There are a few steps you can do when your key fob does not work because the ring is broken. First, you must check to see if the broken piece is still inside the ignition. If it is, remove it without damaging the lock on the ignition or door lock. Call a locksmith if you are having difficulty removing the key. They have tools that can safely remove a damaged or broken key from the ignition.
Another reason for the car key breaking is corrosion on the circuit board or plastic frame. You can clean the circuit board using the help of rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. This will remove any corrosion and ensure that the contact pads aren't damaged.
Repair a damaged ring by using a thick wire or nail to close the hole. Superglue can be used to repair damaged key rings. First, clean the broken rings with a damp cloth and then apply a small amount of superglue on each end of the nail or wire. Then, press the pieces together and let them dry before using your vehicle. These DIY solutions might seem appealing, but they're only a stopgap measure. It's best to hire an skilled locksmith for any long-term repairs. They have the tools and expertise to repair a damaged car key quickly and effectively. They can replace the battery and reprogram the key fob, if needed.
Broken Key Blade
Key blades can break due to wear and tear. If this occurs, you ought to buy a new blade. Luckily, this problem isn't as serious as it might seem at first glance. The main problem is that the blade has separated from the case.
One method to fix this is to spray the key hole with lubricant. Then you can use pliers, tweezers, or a pin to grasp the end of the broken key and take it out. If the key is magnetic, you can also try using a magnetic tool to assist in pulling it out. Just be careful not to use a magnet on an ignition key as it could cause the lock tumbler to break.
Contact a locksmith immediately in the event that you are unable to 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 an open lock that has snapped. Apply a small amount glue to the edges of the crack and press them together. Wait until the glue has dried before inserting the key into the lock. This method isn't secure and you may need to repeat the process multiple times before it's successful. Super glue might not be able to hold the key in place. This is more of a temporary solution than a permanent one.
Broken Plastic Loop
If your key fob's plastic loop is damaged it could render the key ineffective. It's an easy fix. You can make use of wire or a nail for finishing to replace it. Make two holes in the plastic loop that is broken at each end of the nail or wire. Cut the wire or nail to the desired width, and place one drop of superglue in each hole. Press the nail or wire into the holes and let them dry.
Another option is to get a replacement shell from a locksmith that sells them. They can transfer the programmable section of your key to the new shell and cut a brand new blade for a fraction of the cost.
It's not the ideal solution, but it will get you back on the road in case your key snapped in half. It can be difficult to repair the key blade if it is in the ignition. You could try using hair clips, a needle or an extractor tool to remove the damaged piece of the ignition, but this is risky if you're not cautious. The best solution is to contact a locksmith who has special tools for safely removing damaged keys from the ignition. You can also have a new key made with the proper cuts to fit the ignition of your vehicle.
Broken Master Key
You'll have to attempt at regaining the key before it becomes completely destroyed. There are several methods you can use, including using lubricants, tools, needle nose pliers and tweezers. These tools can take a small piece of the broken key and then remove it.
To start, spray the inside of your lock with a lubricant like WD-40 or graphite powder. You can also employ the hacksaw blade method that involves moving the blade along the side of a broken key and grabbing onto some of its 'teeth. If you're successful, you should be able to take the broken key out.
Many hardware stores carry tools for key extraction that spiral. This tool has a thin rod that is flexible and has spiral threads that can be placed in the keyway, and later bent into the broken part of the key. Once it has been snagged onto the serrations, you can twist it in a circular direction and press it against the broken part of the key to take it out.
It's worth trying to remove a broken master key before calling an expert locksmith. If you're unable to pull an item out, it's time to call the big guns and have a locksmith cut you a brand new key and reprogram it with your car's transponder.