How to Repair Car Keys
Car keys may seem tiny and insignificant, but they are essential to the operation of your vehicle. The cost of replacing a traditional or modern transponder car keys can range from $200 to upwards of $200.
There are many ways to repair your car keys yourself at just a fraction of the cost. This article will cover some of the most frequent car keys problems and their DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
The remote key fobs that are included with cars make it simpler than ever to open the trunk, doors, and tailgate. The battery inside the device is prone to dying. There are, however, a few tricks you can employ to solve this problem in the event of a need.
First, check if the car is in ignition mode. If it is the battery of the key fob could be low rather than dead. To test this, push the button on the key fob straight against the ignition button. If this works, then the battery is probably fine and has to be replaced.
To replace vehicle key repairs , start by prying the case off using a screwdriver or watch-type tool. Do not apply too much force, as this could cause the fob's case split. If the fob doesn't open, try using your pry tool more than once around the outside of the case.
Once the fob is opened, remove the mechanical key and 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 an problem with the remote start system of your vehicle. This requires an expert to identify. If this is the case, a trusted mechanic should be able assist you. You can also call 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 options you can try. First, you should check to see if your broken piece is still inside the ignition. If it is, you should remove it without damaging the door lock or ignition lock. If you have trouble getting it out, contact a locksmith for help. They have tools that can safely remove a damaged key from the ignition.
Another common cause of a broken car key is the corrosion of the circuit board or frame. Clean the board with the help of rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. This will eliminate corrosion and ensure the contact pads don't get damaged.
If your key isn't working because of a broken ring or was damaged, you might be able to fix it using a sturdy wire or nail to close the hole. Superglue can be used to fix a broken key ring. After cleaning the ring with a wet cloth apply a small amount of superglue to the ends of the nail or wire. Then, press the pieces together and let them dry before using your car. These DIY solutions might seem appealing, but they are only a temporary solution. For long-term repairs, it's best to get a professional locksmith. They have the expertise and tools to repair damaged keys quickly and effectively. They can replace the battery and reprogram the key fob in the event of need.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades might break due to wear and tear. If this happens, it's probably time to get a new key. This problem isn't nearly as serious as you think at first. The main problem is that the blade has broken off from the case.
One way to fix this is to spray the key hole with a oil-based lubricant. Then you can use pliers tweezers, or a pin to grasp the damaged key and take it out. You could also employ a magnet in the event that the key is magnetic. Be careful not to use a magnet on an ignition key as it could cause the tumbler in the lock to break.
Contact a locksmith immediately when you are unable take out the damaged part of the key. They're equipped with special tools that can safely remove keys without causing any further damage.
Super glue can be used to fix the snapped lock. Apply a small amount of glue to the edges of the crack and press them together. Wait until the glue is dry before inserting your key into the lock. But this method isn't very secure and you may need to repeat the process multiple times before it is successful. In addition the super glue may not be strong enough to hold the key together. This is more of a temporary solution rather than a permanent solution.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the plastic loop is damaged it could render the key useless. It's a fairly simple fix. You can make use of wire or a finishing nail to replace it. Drill two holes in the damaged loop of plastic for each end of the nail or wire. Cut the wire or nail to key width and put a drop of superglue on each hole. Put the nail or wire into the holes to seal them, and then let it dry.
A locksmith who sells replacement shells is another option. They can take the programmable part of your key, transfer it to the new shell and cut a new blade for much less than a full replacement cost.
car key repair service is not the best option, but it can allow you to travel once more if your key split in half. It can be difficult to repair when the blade of the key is in the ignition however. If you are not careful, you can make use of a hair clip or needle to remove the broken part from the ignition. The best choice is to call a locksmith who has special tools to safely remove broken keys from the ignition. They can also design new keys that have the proper cuts for your ignition, so it will work perfectly when it is put into the lock.
Broken Master Key
You'll need to try in vain to recover the key before it becomes completely destroyed. You can employ the tweezers, lubricants and needle nose pliers for grabbing the fragment of a broken key.
To begin, spray the interior of your lock with a lubricant such as WD-40 or graphite powder. You could also try the hacksaw method, that involves carefully sliding the blade along the edge of the broken key and attaching it to the teeth - if you are able to do this, you should be able take the broken key from the lock.
Many hardware stores offer a spiral key extraction tool. This tool has a thin rod that is flexible and has spiral threads that can be inserted in the keyway, and later bent into the broken part of the key. Once it has been snagged onto the serrations, it is possible to twist it in a circular motion, and lever it against the broken portion of the key to take it out.
Before contacting a locksmith attempt to take out the damaged master key. If you're unable to pull the piece out, you need to call the big guns - get a locksmith to cut you a brand new key and reprogram it using the transponder of your car.