How to Repair Car Keys
The car keys aren't big and may not seem important, but they're essential for the proper operation of your car. The cost of replacing a traditional or contemporary transponder car key can range from $200 to upwards of $200.
There are solutions to fix your car keys yourself for less than the cost. This article will cover the most frequently encountered car keys problems and the DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
Cars are equipped with a remote key fob which makes opening doors, trunk and tailgate easier than ever before. The battery inside the device is prone to dying. There are some tricks you can use to resolve this issue fast.
First, determine if the car is still in ignition mode. If it is, then the battery on the key fob could simply be depleted instead of dead. To test this, press the button on the key fob straight up against the vehicle's ignition button. If this works, then the battery is probably in good condition and requires to be replaced.
To replace the fob's battery, first pry open the case with an instrument like a screwdriver, or watch-type tool. Do not apply too much force since this could cause the fob's case split. If the fob isn't opening easily, try putting your pry tool in more than one place on the outside of the case.
Once the fob is opened take out the mechanical key, and then open the electronic portion of the car. Install the new battery and snap back the shell. If the key fob isn't working after this, there could be a larger problem with the remote start system that requires a professional diagnosis. A reputable mechanic will be capable of helping you if this is the situation. If you need help with your vehicle, you can contact roadside assistance.
Broken Key Ring
If your key fob isn't working because the ring broke there are a few options you could try. The first step is to see if your broken piece is still in the ignition. If it's still in there, remove it without damaging the ignition lock or the door lock. Contact a locksmith if have difficulty taking the key off. They have tools that can safely remove a damaged key from the ignition.
A damaged car key could also be caused by corrosion on the plastic frame or circuit board. Clean the circuit board using cotton swab. This will get rid of the corrosion and protect to the contact pads.
If your key won't start because the ring is broken it, you might be able fix it by using a thick wire or nail to seal the hole. how to repair car key fob can also use superglue to repair a broken ring. First, clean the damaged ring with a damp towel and then apply a small amount superglue on each end of the wire or nail. Press the pieces together and allow them to dry before using your vehicle. These DIY solutions might seem appealing, but they are only a temporary solution. It's best to hire an skilled locksmith for any long-term repairs. They have the expertise and tools to fix damaged keys quickly and efficiently. They can even replace the battery on your key fob, and modify it if necessary.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades might break due to wear and tear. If this happens, you should probably purchase a new one. Fortunately, the issue isn't as serious as it might seem at first. The main problem is that the blade has broken off from the case.
Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is one solution to fix it. Then you can use pliers pins, or tweezers to grasp the broken end of the key and remove it. You could also employ a magnet in the event that the key is magnetic. Be careful not to use a magnetic tool on an ignition key as it could cause the tumbler in the lock to break.
Contact a locksmith right away in the event that you are unable to remove the broken piece of the key. They have tools that permit them to safely remove keys without causing damage.
You can also apply super glue to fix a snapped key. Apply a small amount glue to the edges of the break and press them together. Make sure the glue is dry before inserting the key into the lock. This method is not very secure, and you could have to repeat it a few times before it is successful. Super glue may not be able to hold the key in place. Therefore, this is more of a stopgap measure than an option that can last.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the plastic loop gets damaged it can render the key useless. It's a fairly easy fix. You can use wire or a finishing nail as a replacement. For each end of the wire or nail make two holes in the loop of plastic. Cut the wire or nail to key width, and place tiny drops of superglue in each hole. Put the nail or wire into the holes until it closes them and let it dry.
Another option is to purchase the replacement shell from a locksmith who sells them. They can take the programmable component of your key, transfer it to the new shell and cut the new blade for less than a full replacement cost.
It's not the best solution, but it can bring you back on the road in case your key snapped in half. It can be difficult to fix the key blade if it is in the ignition. If you are not careful you could employ a hair clip, or a needle to remove the broken piece from the ignition. Call a locksmith with special tools to safely remove damaged keys from ignitions. They can also create a new key with the appropriate cuts for your vehicle's ignition to ensure that it functions properly when it is inserted into the lock.
Broken Master Key
You'll need to try to retrieve the key before it is completely destroyed. You can use the tweezers, lubricants and needle nose pliers to grab the fragment of a broken key.
To begin, spray the inside of your lock with a lubricant such as WD-40 or graphite powder. You may also try the hacksaw blade method, which involves carefully sliding the blade along the side of the broken key, and attaching it to the 'teeth' - if you succeed in doing this, you will 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 variety of hardware stores. It is a thin flexible rod with spiral threads that can be placed in the keyway and then bent to the broken portion of the key. Once it is hooked to the serrations, you can turn it in a circular motion, and press it against the broken portion of the key to take it out.
It's worth attempting to remove a master key that's broken prior to calling a professional locksmith. If you are unable to get a piece out, you need to call the big guns to let a locksmith make you a brand new key and reprogram it to your car's transponder.