How to Repair a Dead Car Key
Sometimes extreme heat or cold can cause a car key to stop working properly. You should wait a while before spending money to replace it.
It's a real pain when your car keys break and it happens at the most inconvenient times! There are a variety of ways you can repair broken car keys that don't involve paying for an entirely new one.
Dead Key Fob Battery
Modern key fobs allow us to open doors, trunks, and tailgates without the need to search for a key in the car. Certain key fobs come with a built in key that can be utilized to start our vehicles. However, these key fobs depend on a tiny battery that powers their remote functions. If this battery dies and the key fob stops working, it cannot transmit a signal that can be used to start the vehicle. There are a variety of methods to repair a dead car key fob.
First, try to determine if your key fob is dead. If it seems to be dead, you'll need to replace the batteries. You can do this yourself by taking the key fob away from its clip or using a small flat head screwdriver to pry it apart. It is important not to apply too much force or you may damage the fob. Also, make sure that you're using the right kind of battery. Certain models might require a different type of battery. Find out the kind of battery your car needs in the owner's manual, or you can visit an Interstate All Battery Center and have a battery specialist help you.
If the key fob actually isn't dead, you can revive it by moving closer to your car. Since the majority of key fobs use RFID (radio-frequency identification) they can only operate at a short distance and must be near enough to allow the ignition system to recognize the signal. You can unlock your car or even start it by moving a couple of inches closer.
Many automobile manufacturers have backup systems that is activated when the key fob's battery is low. Ford, for example, has a slot that is dedicated to the key fob. If properly inserted the key fob will start the car's engine. There are instructions in the owner's manual on how to locate this slot and insert the key fob correctly. If you are unable to start your car using this method, be sure to call roadside assistance for assistance.
Broken Key Ring
The key fob's internal chip is the one that communicates with your car's immobilizer system in order to start the engine. The chip could be damaged or there may be programming mistakes. If this occurs your key fob will not be able transmit the correct identification code and your car won't begin. In certain instances, a faulty transponder key may also be caused by physical damage or wear and tear on the key shell or contact pads.
Usually, when the key fob begins to have trouble communicating with the immobilizer system of your vehicle, you will see specific warning signs on the dashboard. These may include warnings about errors flashing lights, or the key not locking the vehicle. If you notice these warnings contact your local locksmith immediately for key fob replacement or repair.
If you carry a lot of keys, it is easy to break the key ring. This can cause the fob to crack in half. This is one of the main reasons for a broken car key. It is possible to apply super glue on both sides of the crack and gently press them together to fix the problem. It is crucial to apply a gel-type adhesive that is slow drying to avoid drips or runniness.
If this method does not work, it's important to contact a professional locksmith as soon as possible to avoid further damage to your car. A locksmith who is certified will be able to repair or repair your key fob in a short time and will be able to make sure that the ignition lock as well as the door lock are not affected during the process.
It can be a bit frustrating when your key fob is damaged. However, it is not an excuse to panic or get annoyed. Instead, you can take proactive steps to decrease the risk of your key fob rupturing again in the future, such as regular maintenance, using key protectors and keeping an extra key. Quicksmith's team is ready to help you if your key fob is damaged.
Broken Key Loop
One of my MK5 keyfobs has snapped off the tiny key loop on top, where it connects to the keyfob. It's made of plastic or metal that is soft. I've made a hole, then wet-sanded the surface to make it stronger. But I suspect that's not helping.
I've also wrapped the broken portion of the ring with clear tape, but that does not seem to do any good. This is a pity, as I use the tiny split rings to keep my keys in place.
If the key fob case itself is broken it is usually possible to remove the case and replace the battery (assuming the battery isn't dead). Online kits are available however they're only a temporary solution. It's better to have it repaired by a professional. Alternately, key repair car may be able to locate the replacement case at the home improvement store or a locksmith. These cases aren't as costly as the new key fob.