How to Repair Car Keys
The car keys are small and may not be considered important, but they're vital for the proper operation of your vehicle. The cost of replacing the traditional or modern transponder car key can range from $200 to upwards of $200.
There are methods to repair your car keys at home for less than. This article will cover some of the most frequent car keys issues and the 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. However, the battery inside this device can die. There are, however, some tricks you can employ to solve this problem in an emergency.
First, make sure that the car is in ignition mode. If it is the battery on the key fob could be low rather than dead. To test, press the button on the fob against the ignition button on the vehicle. If it works, the battery is likely fine and will only need to be changed.
To replace the battery in the fob, you need to open the case using an screwdriver. Be careful not to apply too much force as this may cause the fob's case split. If car key repairs doesn't seem to be coming open with ease, try placing your pry tool in multiple places 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. Then insert the replacement battery and snap the shell back together. If the key fob won't work after this, there may be a more serious problem with the remote start system that requires a professional diagnosis. A reputable mechanic will able help you in this situation. You can also reach out to roadside assistance to assist with your vehicle in case you need it.
Broken Key Ring
There are a few things you can do if your key fob doesn't function because the ring is broken. First, you must check to see if your broken piece is still inside the ignition. If it is, remove it without damaging the ignition lock or door lock. Contact a locksmith if have difficulty taking the key off. They have special tools that allow you to safely remove the damaged key from the ignition.
Another reason that can lead to a broken car key is corrosion on the circuit board or frame. It is possible to clean the board with cotton swab. This will remove the corrosion and prevent damage to the contact pads.
If your key isn't working because the ring broke it, you might be able fix it by using a thick wire or nail to seal the hole. You can also use superglue to repair a broken ring. First, clean the broken rings with a damp cloth and then apply a small amount of superglue to each end of the wire or nail. Let the pieces dry and then press them together. These DIY solutions may seem appealing, however they are only a temporary solution. It is recommended to hire an expert locksmith for repairs that last. They have the tools and knowledge to fix a broken car key quickly and efficiently. They can replace the battery and reprogram the key fob if necessary.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades break from a lot of wear and tear. If this occurs, you ought to buy a new one. This problem isn't nearly as serious as you believe at first. The primary problem is that the metal blade has snapped away from the case.
One method to fix this is spraying the key hole with lubricant. Then, you can use pliers, tweezers, or a pin to grasp the damaged key and pull it out. You may also use a magnet if the key is magnetic. Just be careful not to use a magnet on an ignition key since it could cause the lock tumbler to break.
If you are unable to get the broken piece from the key, call an emergency locksmith. They have special tools to safely remove keys without causing any further damage.
You can also use super glue to fix a broken key. Apply a small amount of glue to the edges and press them in. Wait until the glue is dry before inserting the key into the lock. This method isn't extremely secure, and you could have to repeat it several times before it does the trick. Super glue may not hold the key in place. This is more of a temporary solution than a permanent solution.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the plastic loop breaks off it could render the key useless. Fortunately, this is an simple fix. You can make use of wire or a finishing nail as a replacement. Make two holes in the plastic loop that is broken for each end of the nail or wire. Cut the wire or nail to the desired width, then place one drop of superglue into each hole. Press the wire or nail into the holes until it closes them, and then let it dry.
A locksmith who sells replacement shells is a different option. They can take the programmable part of your key, then transfer it to the new shell and cut an entirely new blade for less than a complete replacement cost.
It's not the best solution, but it can bring you back on the road if your key snapped in half. It's difficult to fix when the key blade is in the ignition however. You can try using a hair clip or needle extractor tool to pull the broken part of the ignition, but this is risky if you're not cautious. Contact a locksmith who has special tools to safely remove broken keys from ignitions. They can also make you new keys that have the correct cuts for your ignition to ensure that it functions perfectly when it is put into the lock.
Broken Master Key
If a key breaks inside the lock, you'll need to attempt to retrieve it before it's completely destroyed. You can employ the tweezers, lubricants and needle nose pliers to grasp the fragment of a broken key.
To begin, spray the interior of your lock with a lubricant like graphite powder or WD-40. You may also try the hacksaw blade method, that involves carefully moving the blade down the edge of the broken key and hooking onto some of the 'teeth'. If you are able to do this, you should be able pull out the broken key from the lock.
Another useful tool is a spiral key extractor which you can find in a wide range of hardware stores. It is a thin, flexible bar with spiral threads which can be inserted into the keyway, and then bent to get into the damaged section of the key. Once it is hooked to the serrations, you can turn it in a circular direction and push it against the damaged section of the key to get it out.
Before contacting a locksmith try to get rid of the broken master key. If you can't get a piece out, it's time to call the big guns - get a locksmith to make you a brand new key and reprogram it with the transponder in your car.