How to Repair Car Keys
Car keys may appear tiny and insignificant, however they are vital to the operation of your vehicle. Replacing a traditional key or a transponder key that is modern can cost upwards of $200.
There are many ways to repair your car keys yourself for less than the cost. This article will discuss the most frequently encountered car keys issues and their DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Battery
The remote key fobs that come with cars make it simpler than ever before to open the trunk, doors, and the tailgate. The battery in the device is prone to dying. There are a few strategies you can use to resolve this issue quickly.
Check to see if the car is still in the ignition mode. If it is, the key fob's battery could be low rather than dead. To test this, press the fob's button against the ignition button on the vehicle. If it does not work, the battery is probably working fine and just requires to be replaced.
To replace the fob's battery, begin by prying open the case with the help of a screwdriver or watch-type device. Don't apply too much force as this could cause the fob's case to split. If the fob won't open try prying the tool more than once around the outside of case.
After the fob has been 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 doesn't work after this procedure, there could be a more serious issue with your car's remote start system that requires a professional diagnostic. If this is the case, a trusted mechanic should be able to help you. You can also call roadside assistance for help with your vehicle, if you require it.
Broken Key Ring
If your key fob isn't functioning because the ring has broken, there are a few options you might try. Look to see if can find the broken piece inside the ignition. If car key repair shop near me 's still in there the ignition, take it out without causing damage to the ignition lock or the door lock. Call a locksmith if you are having difficulty removing the key. They have the right tools to safely remove a broken key from the ignition.
A broken car key can also be the result of corrosion on the plastic frame or circuit board. It is possible to clean the circuit board using the help of rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. This will remove the corrosion and prevent damage to the contact pads.
If your key won't start because the ring broke, you may be able fix it using a sturdy wire or nail to close the hole. Superglue can be used to fix damaged key rings. After cleaning the ring with a moist cloth, apply a small amount superglue to the ends of the nail or wire. Let the pieces dry and then press them into place. These DIY solutions may look appealing, but they're just an interim measure. It's best to hire an expert locksmith for repairs that last. They have the tools and expertise to repair a damaged car key quickly and efficiently. They can replace the battery and reprogram the key fob, if needed.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades can break from a lot of wear and tear. If this happens, it's time to get a new key. Fortunately, the issue isn't as serious as it may appear at first glance. The primary problem is that the metal blade has snapped away from the case.
One way to fix this is to spray the key hole with lubricant. Then, you can use pliers or tweezers to grasp the broken end of the key and pull it. You may also make use of a magnet if the key is magnetic. Use a magnet as a aid to you remove the key, but be careful to not damage the lock tumbler.
Call a locksmith immediately when you are unable take out the damaged part of the key. They have special tools that permit them to safely remove keys without causing damage.
You can also apply super glue to repair a snapped key. Apply a small amount to the edges and press them together. Wait until the glue has dried before inserting the key into the lock. This method isn't reliable and you may have to repeat the process multiple times before it's successful. Plus the super glue might not be enough to keep the key in place. This is more of a temporary solution rather than a permanent solution.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the plastic loop on your key fob is damaged it can render the key ineffective. It's a fairly easy fix. You can use thick wire or a nail for finishing to replace it. For each end of the nail or wire you need to drill two holes into the loop of plastic. Cut the wire or nail to the desired width and then put the superglue drop in each hole. Then, press the wire or nail into the holes and let them dry.
Another option is to get a replacement shell from a locksmith who sells them. They can take out the programmable portion of your key, move it to the new shell, and cut the new blade for less than a full replacement cost.
This isn't the most efficient solution, but it will get you on the road once more if your key broken in half. It's not easy to fix when the blade of the key is in the ignition, however. If you are not careful you could make use of a hair clip or a needle to remove the damaged part from the ignition. The best solution is to contact a locksmith with special tools for safely removing damaged keys from the ignition. They can also make you a new key with the proper cuts for your vehicle's ignition, so it will work perfectly when it is put into the lock.
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 variety of methods you can employ, such as using lubricants, tools, needle nose pliers and tweezers to take a small piece of the broken key and remove it.
Spray the inside of the lock with WD-40 or a graphite powder. You could also try the hacksaw blade method, which involves carefully sliding the blade along the edge of the broken key, and hooking onto some of the 'teeth' - if you are able to do this you will be able to pull out the broken key from the lock.
Many hardware stores offer a spiral key extraction tool. It is a thin rod with spiral threads that can be inserted into the keyway, and then bent into the broken part of the key. Once it is hooked to the serrations, you can turn it in a circular motion and lever it against the broken section of the key to take it out.
Before contacting a locksmith, try to get rid of the broken master key. If you're unable to remove the broken piece then you'll have to contact a professional locksmith. Locksmiths can create you a new key that will be programmed using the transponder of your car.
