How to Repair Car Keys
The car keys aren't big and may not seem important, but they are essential to the functioning of your vehicle. Replacing a traditional key or a modern transponder key can cost up to $200.
There are ways to fix your car keys yourself for less than the cost. This article will address the most common car keys issues and the DIY solutions to fix them.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
The remote key fobs that come with cars make it easier than ever before to open the trunk, doors and the tailgate. The battery of the device is prone to dying. There are some tricks you can use to resolve this issue quickly.
Examine if your car is still in the ignition mode. If it is the battery on the key fob may be low, but not dead. To test, press the fob's button against the ignition button on the vehicle. If it works, the battery is probably in good condition and has to be replaced.
To replace the fob's battery, start by prying the case off using a screwdriver or watch-type tool. Be cautious not to apply too much pressure because this could cause the fob's to split apart. If the fob doesn't open, try using your pry tool more than once around the outside of case.
After the fob has been opened then remove the mechanical key and open the electronic section of the car. Install the new battery and snap back the shell. If your key fob still does not work after this procedure, it could be a larger issue with the remote start system in your car. This requires an expert to identify. If this is the case, a trusted mechanic should be able to help you. If you need help with your vehicle, you can contact roadside assistance.
Broken Key Ring
If your key fob won't work because the ring has broken, there are a few options you might try. Check to see if you can locate the broken piece inside the ignition. If it's still inside it, remove it without causing damage to the ignition lock or the door lock. Contact a locksmith if are having difficulty removing the key. They have specialized tools that allow you to safely remove the damaged key from the ignition.
Another common cause of the car key breaking is the corrosion of the circuit board or plastic frame. Clean car key fob repairs using rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. This will get rid of the corrosion and stop damage to the contact pads.
You can repair a damaged rings by using a thick wire or nail to seal the hole. Superglue can be used to fix the broken key ring. First, clean the broken ring with a damp cloth and then apply a small amount of superglue to the ends of the wire or nail. Allow the pieces to dry, and then press them into place. These DIY solutions may seem appealing, but they are only a temporary measure. For long-term repairs, it's recommended to get an experienced locksmith. They have the expertise and tools to fix the broken key quickly and efficiently. They can replace the battery and reprogram your key fob in the event of need.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades can break due to a lot of wear and tear. If this occurs, you must buy a new blade. Luckily, this problem isn't as serious as it might seem at first glance. The problem is that the metal blade has broken off from the case.
Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is one solution to repair it. Then you can use pliers pins, or tweezers to grasp the end of the broken key and remove it. If the key is magnetic, you can also try using a magnet to assist in pulling it out. Be careful not to use a magnetic tool on an ignition key since it could cause the tumbler in the lock to break.
Contact a locksmith right away in the event that you are unable to take out the damaged part of the key. They're equipped with special tools that can safely remove keys without causing any further damage.
You can also use super glue to repair a snapped key. Apply a small amount of glue to the edges and press them together. Then, wait until the glue has dried before you insert your key into the lock. This method is not very reliable, and you may have to repeat it a few times before it works. Plus, the super glue may not be enough to keep the key in place. This is more of a temporary solution rather than a permanent one.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the plastic loop on your key fob breaks it can render the key ineffective. It's a fairly easy fix. You can use thick wire or a finishing nail to replace it. For each end of the wire or nail make two holes in the loop of plastic. Cut the wire or nail to a key width, then put the superglue drop in each hole. Apply the nail or wire into the holes and let them dry.
Another option is to purchase a replacement shell from a locksmith who sells them. They can transfer the programmable section of your key to the new shell and cut an entirely new blade at a fraction of the cost.
This isn't the most efficient option, but it can get you on the road once more if your key split in half. It can be 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 broken piece from the ignition. The best solution is to call an expert locksmith who has tools for safely removing damaged keys from the ignition. They can also create new keys that have the correct cuts for your ignition, so it will work perfectly when it is put into the lock.
Broken Master Key
If a key breaks inside the lock, you'll need to try to retrieve it before it's completely destroyed. There are key repairs of methods you can use, including using lubricants, tools, needle nose pliers and tweezers to grab a fragment of the key that has been broken and pull it out.
To begin, spray the inside of your lock with a lubricant like WD-40 or graphite powder. You could also try the hacksaw blade method, which involves carefully moving the blade down the edge of the broken key and connecting to a few of the 'teeth' - if you are able to do this you should be able pull out the broken key from the lock.
Another tool that is useful is a spiral key extractor that can be found in a wide range of hardware stores. This has a thin flexible bar with spiral threads, which can be put into the keyway and then bent to get into the damaged section of the key. Once it has caught onto the serrations, you can turn the bar into a circle and then pull it against the damaged section of the key.
Before contacting key repairs , try to get rid of the broken master key before calling a locksmith. If you are unable to get the piece out, it's time to call the big guns - let a locksmith make you a brand new key and reprogram it using the transponder of your car.