How to Repair Car Keys
The car keys are tiny and might not seem to be important, but they're essential to the functioning of your vehicle. The cost of replacing a traditional or modern transponder car key could be as high as $200.
There are methods to fix your car keys at home with less than. This article will discuss the most frequently encountered car keys issues and their DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
Cars are equipped with remote key fobs which makes opening doors, trunk and tailgate more convenient than ever before. The battery of the device is prone to dying. Fortunately, there are some techniques that can be employed to fix this issue in a pinch.
First, make sure that the car is in ignition mode. If it is, then the battery of the key fob may simply be low instead of dead. To test this, press the button on the fob against the ignition button on the vehicle. If it works, the battery is probably fine and needs to be changed.
To replace the battery inside the fob, pry open the case with an screwdriver. Do not apply too much force as this may cause the fob's casing to split. If the fob isn't coming open with ease, try placing your pry tool in more than one place on the outside of the case.
Open the electronic portion of your vehicle after you have removed the mechanical key. Then, you can insert the replacement battery and then snap the shell together. If the key fob isn't working after this procedure, there could be a larger problem with your car's remote start system that requires a professional diagnostic. A reputable mechanic will able help you if this is the situation. key repair car can also reach out to roadside assistance for help with your vehicle if needed.
Broken Key Ring
If your key fob isn't working because the ring broke, there are a few things you could try. First, you must check to see if the broken piece is still inside the ignition. If it's still there, remove it without damaging either the ignition lock or the door lock. Call a locksmith if you are having difficulty removing the key. They have tools that can safely remove a broken key from the ignition.
Another reason for a broken car key is the corrosion of the circuit board or plastic frame. You can clean the circuit board using rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. This will get rid of the corrosion and protect to the contact pads.
If your key isn't starting because of a broken ring it, you might be able fix it with a strong wire or nail to close the hole. Superglue can be used to fix the broken key ring. After cleaning the ring with a moist cloth apply a small amount of superglue on each end of the wire or nail. Apply the glue to the ring and allow them to dry before using your vehicle. These DIY solutions might look appealing, but they're just an interim measure. For long-term repairs, it's best to get an expert locksmith. They have the experience and tools to fix the broken key quickly and effectively. They can even replace the battery on your key fob and reprogram it if needed.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades may break due to wear and tear. If this happens, you should probably buy a new blade. Luckily, this problem isn't as serious as it might seem at first. The primary problem is that the blade has snapped away from the case.
One solution is spraying the key hole with a lubricant. Then you can use pliers tweezers, or a pin to grasp the broken end of the key and pull it out. If the key is magnetic, you can also try using a magnet to pull it out. Be careful not to use a magnet on an ignition key since it could cause the tumbler in the lock to break.
If you're unable to remove the broken piece from the key, call an expert locksmith immediately. They're equipped with special tools to safely remove keys without causing 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. Make sure the glue has dried before inserting the key into the lock. But this method isn't very reliable and you might have to repeat the process multiple times before it works. In addition, the super glue may not be enough strong to hold the key together. Therefore, this is more of a temporary measure rather than a permanent solution.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the plastic loop breaks off, it can make the key ineffective. This is a relatively easy fix. You can make use of wire or a nail for finishing to replace it. Make two holes in the damaged loop of plastic for each end of the nail or wire. Cut the nail or wire to key width and put a drop of superglue in each hole. Then, press the wire or nail into the holes to close them and allow it to dry.
Another option is to purchase a replacement shell from a locksmith that sells them. They can transfer the programmable portion of your key to the new shell and cut a brand new blade for only a fraction of the price.
This isn't the best solution, but it will get you on the road once more if your key been cut in half. It's not easy to fix when the key blade is in the ignition, however. If you're not careful, you can employ a hair clip, or a needle to take the broken piece from the ignition. Contact a locksmith who has special tools to safely remove broken keys from ignitions. remote car key repair can also design a new key with the appropriate cuts for the ignition of your vehicle and ensure it works correctly when inserted into the lock.
Broken Master Key
You'll need to at regaining the key before it is completely destroyed. You can use lubricants, tweezers, and needle nose pliers for grabbing the broken fragment of a key.
Spray the inside of your lock with WD-40 or a graphite powder. You can also use hacksaw blades, which involves sliding the blade along the side of a damaged key and grabbing onto some of its teeth. If you're successful then you should be in a position to take the broken key out.
Many hardware stores offer tools for key extraction that spiral. This tool has a thin flexible rod with spiral threads that can be inserted into the keyway, and then bent into the broken part of the key. Once it is firmly anchored to the serrations, you can twist the bar into a circle and then pull it against the broken part of the key.
It's worth trying to remove a master key that's broken prior to calling a professional locksmith. If you are unable to remove the broken piece, you'll need to contact a professional locksmith. Locksmiths can create you a new key that can be programmed to your car transponder.