How to Repair Car Keys
The car keys are tiny and may not be considered important, but they're vital for the proper operation of your vehicle. The cost of replacing the traditional or contemporary transponder car key can be upwards to $200.
There are many ways to repair your car keys yourself for less than the cost. This article will cover the most frequently encountered car keys issues and their DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
The remote key fobs for keys that come with cars make it simpler than ever to open the trunk, doors, and tailgate. The battery in the device is prone to dying. There are a few strategies you can use to solve this problem quickly.
Check to see if your vehicle is still in ignition mode. If it is, then the battery of the key fob may simply be depleted instead of dead. To test this, press the button on the fob against the ignition button on the vehicle. If this is successful, the battery is probably fine and only needs to be changed.
To replace the fob's battery, first pry open the case with a screwdriver or watch-type tool. Be cautious not to press too hard because this could cause the fob to split apart. If the fob doesn't open, try using your pry tool several times around the outside of the case.
Once the fob is open then remove the mechanical key and open the electronic part of the car. Then insert the replacement battery and then snap the shell back together. If electronic car key repair near me does not work after this, it could be due to an problem with the remote starting system in your car. This will require an expert to identify. A reputable mechanic will be able help you in this situation. You can also reach out to roadside assistance for help with your vehicle in case you need it.
Broken Key Ring
If your key fob isn't functioning because the ring broke, there are a few things you can try. Check to see if you can locate the broken part within the ignition. If it is, remove it without damaging the door lock or ignition lock. Contact a locksmith if have difficulty removing the key. They have tools that can safely remove a damaged or broken key from the ignition.
A broken car key could be caused by corrosion on the plastic frame or circuit board. Clean the circuit board using the help of rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. This will remove corrosion and ensure the contact pads aren't damaged.
If your key isn't working because the ring is broken, you may be able to fix it by using a thick wire or nail to seal the hole. You can also use superglue to fix a broken ring. First, clean the damaged ring with a damp cloth and then apply a small amount superglue to the ends of the wire or nail. Press the pieces together and allow them to dry before using your car. These DIY solutions might seem appealing, but they're really just temporary solutions. For long-term repairs, it's best to work with a professional locksmith. They have the knowledge and tools to repair damaged keys quickly and efficiently. They can replace the battery and reprogram the key fob if necessary.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades may break due to wear and tear. If this happens, it's time to get a new key. This problem isn't nearly as serious as you might think at first. The primary problem is that the metal blade has snapped away 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 grab the end of the broken key and remove it. If the key is magnetic, you could also try using a magnet to pull it out. Use a magnet to help you remove the key, but be careful to not break the lock tumbler.
Contact a locksmith immediately in the event that you are unable to take out the damaged part of the key. They're equipped with special tools to safely extract keys without causing damage.
You can also apply super glue to fix a snapped key. Apply a small amount of the glue to the edges and press them together. Make sure the glue is dry before inserting the key into the lock. This method isn't reliable and you may have repeat the process several times before it's successful. In addition the super glue might not be strong enough to hold the key together. So, this is more of a stopgap measure rather than a permanent solution.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the loop of plastic on your key fob breaks it could cause the key to become ineffective. This is a relatively easy fix. To replace it alternative, you can use wire that is thick or a finishing nail. Drill two holes into the damaged loop of plastic at each end of the nail or wire. Cut the wire or nail to key width and put the superglue drop in each hole. Apply 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 portion of your key to the new shell, and then cut new blades for a fraction of the cost.
It's not the most ideal solution, but it'll bring you back on the road if your key snapped in half. However, it could be difficult to repair the key blade if it is in the ignition. You can try using hair clips or a needle extractor tool to pull the broken piece of the ignition, however this is risky if you're not cautious. The best choice is to call a locksmith with special tools for safely removing damaged keys from the ignition. They can also make you new keys with the appropriate cuts for your ignition to ensure that it functions properly when it is inserted into the lock.
Broken Master Key
If a key gets damaged inside the lock, you'll have to find it before it's completely destroyed. You can employ the tweezers, lubricants and needle nose pliers to grab the broken fragment of a key.
Spray the inside of your lock with WD-40 or a graphite powder. You could also try the hacksaw blade method which involves gently sliding the blade along the side of the broken key, and connecting to a few of the 'teeth'. If you succeed in doing this you should be able to take the broken key from the lock.
Another tool that is useful is an extractor for keys spiral, which you can find in a wide range of hardware stores. This tool has a thin flexible rod with spiral threads that can be inserted in the keyway and then bent to form the broken part of the key. Once it is firmly anchored to the serrations, you can twist the bar around and pull it against the broken section of the key.
Before contacting a locksmith, try to get rid of the broken master key before calling a locksmith. If you're unable to get rid of the broken piece, you'll need to call a locksmith. Locksmiths can create you a new key that will be programmed with the transponder of your car.