How to Repair Car Keys
Car keys may seem tiny and insignificant, however they are vital for the proper operation of your vehicle. Replacing a traditional key or a transponder one can cost up to $200.
However, there are ways to fix your car keys at home for a fraction of the cost. This article will discuss the most frequent car keys issues as well as their DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Battery
Cars are equipped with remote key fobs which makes opening doors and trunk easier than ever before. However, the battery inside this device can die. However, there are a few tricks you can employ to solve this problem in the event of a need.
Check to see if the car is still in the ignition mode. If it is, the battery on the key fob could simply be depleted instead of dead. To test this, push the button on the key fob towards the ignition button. If it works, then the battery is probably fine and only needs to be replaced.
To replace the battery within the fob, open the case using an screwdriver. Be cautious not to apply too much pressure as this could cause the fob's to split in two. If the fob isn't opening, try using your pry tool several times around the outside of case.
Open the electronic portion of your car after you have removed the mechanical key. Insert the new battery and snap back the shell. If the key fob doesn't work after this, it may be due to an problem with the remote start system of your car. This will require an expert to determine the cause. A trusted mechanic will be in a position to assist you if this is the situation. You can also reach out to roadside assistance for help with your vehicle if needed.
Broken Key Ring
If your key fob won't work because the ring is broken there are a few things you can try. Check to see if you can locate the broken piece within the ignition. If it's still there, remove it without damaging the ignition lock or the door lock. Contact a locksmith if are having trouble getting rid of the key. They have the right tools to safely remove a damaged or broken key from the ignition.
A damaged car key could be caused by corrosion of the plastic frame or circuit board. You can clean the board with the help of rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. This will remove the corrosion and prevent damage to the contact pads.
You can repair a damaged ring by using a thick wire or nail to close the hole. Superglue can also be used to fix a broken ring. First, clean the damaged ring with a damp towel and then apply a small amount of superglue to the ends of the nail or wire. Let the pieces dry and then press them in place. These DIY solutions can appear appealing, but they're only temporary solutions. For long-term repairs, it's best to hire a professional locksmith. They have the experience and tools to repair damaged keys 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 purchase a new one. The issue isn't as serious as you might believe at first. The primary problem is that the metal blade has snapped away from the case.
Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is one solution to fix it. Then, you can use pliers pins, or tweezers to grab the end of the broken key and pull it out. If the key is magnetic, you could also try using a magnet to pull it out. Use a magnet to assist you remove the key, but take care to not sever the lock tumbler.
If you're unable to get the broken piece of the key, call an emergency locksmith. They have tools that allow them to safely remove 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 is dry before inserting the key into the lock. But this method isn't very secure and you may need repeat the process several times before it's successful. Plus the super glue might not be enough to hold the key together. This is more of a stopgap measure rather than an option that can last.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the loop of plastic on your key fob fails it can render the key useless. This is a relatively easy fix. For a replacement, you can use wire that is thick or a finishing nail. For each end of the nail or wire make two holes in the loop of plastic. Cut the wire or nail to key width, and then place tiny drops of superglue in each hole. Apply the nail or wire into the holes and allow them to dry.
Another option is to purchase a replacement shell from a locksmith that sells them. They can take the programmable component of your key, move it to the new shell, and cut an entirely new blade for less than the full replacement cost.
This isn't the best solution, but it will allow you to travel once more if your key been cut in half. It's difficult to fix if the key blade is in the ignition however. If you're not cautious you could use a hair clip or a needle to remove the damaged part from the ignition. Contact car key and repair who has special tools to safely remove damaged keys from ignitions. You can also get a new key made with the correct cuts to fit the ignition of your car.
Broken Master Key
If a key is broken inside the lock, you'll have to attempt to retrieve it before it gets completely destroyed. There are a few techniques that you can try, such as using lubricants and tools like needle nose pliers and tweezers to grab a fragment of the broken key and pull it out.
To begin, spray the interior of your lock with a lubricant, such as graphite powder or WD-40. You may also try the hacksaw blade method, which involves carefully 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.
Many hardware stores carry the spiral key extraction tool. This tool has a thin flexible rod with spiral threads that can be inserted in the keyway and then bent to the broken portion of the key. Once it is firmly anchored to the serrations, you can twist the bar in a circle and then pull it against the damaged section of the key.
Before contacting a locksmith, try to remove the broken master key before calling a locksmith. If you're not able to remove the broken piece, you'll need to contact a professional locksmith. A locksmith can make you a new key that can be programmed to the transponder in your car.