How to Repair Car Keys
The car keys are tiny and might not seem to be important, but they're essential for the proper operation of your vehicle. Replacing a traditional or a transponder key that is modern can cost up to $200.
There are methods to fix your car keys at home for a fraction of the cost. This article will discuss the most common car keys problems and their DIY fixes.
Dead Key Fob Battery
The remote key fobs that are included with cars make it easier than ever before to open the trunk, doors and the tailgate. The battery in this device is prone to dying. There are some tricks you can use to resolve this problem quickly.
Examine if your car is still in the ignition mode. If so the battery of the key fob may be low, but not dead. To test, press the button on the fob against the ignition button of the vehicle. If this is successful, the battery is likely fine and needs to be replaced.
To replace the battery within the fob, open the case using a screwdriver. Be careful not to put too much pressure on the fob as this could cause the fob's to split in two. If the fob doesn't seem to be coming open with ease, try placing your pry tool in more than one place on the outside of the case.
Open the electronic compartment of your vehicle after you have removed the mechanical key. Then insert the replacement battery and snap the shell back together. If the key fob doesn't work after this, there could be a more serious problem with the remote start system that requires a professional diagnostic. If this is the case, a reputable mechanic should be able assist you. You can also reach out to roadside assistance for assistance with your vehicle in case you need it.
Broken Key Ring
There are a few steps to do when your key fob does not work because the ring has been broken. Check to see if you can locate the broken part inside the ignition. If it's still there, remove it without damaging the ignition lock or the door lock. If you're having difficulty getting it out, contact a locksmith for assistance. They have specialized tools that are able to safely remove keys that are damaged from the ignition.
Another reason for a broken car key is corrosion on the circuit board or plastic frame. You can clean the circuit board using a cotton swab with ruby alcohol. This will get rid of the corrosion and stop damage to the contact pads.
You can repair a damaged ring using a strong nail or wire to close the hole. Superglue can be used to fix a broken key 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 sound appealing, but they are only temporary solutions. For long-term repairs, you'll want to work with an expert locksmith. They have the tools and expertise to repair a damaged car key quickly and efficiently. They can even replace the battery in the key fob and modify it if necessary.
Broken Key Blade
Key blades can break due to wear and tear. If this happens, it's probably time to buy a new key. Luckily, this problem isn't as bad as it might seem at first. The main problem is that the metal blade snapped off the case.
One way to fix this is spraying the key hole with a oil-based lubricant. Then, you can use pliers, tweezers, or a pin to grab the broken end of the key and take it out. You can also make use of a magnet if the key is magnetic. Use a magnet to assist you remove the key, but be cautious to not break the tumbler of the lock.
Contact a locksmith immediately if you are unable to remove the broken part of the key. They're equipped with special tools to safely remove keys without causing any further damage.
You can also apply super glue to repair a snapped key. Apply a small amount glue to the edges of the crack and press them together. Then, wait until car key repair near me The Keylab 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's successful. Super glue may not hold the key together. This is more of a temporary solution than a permanent one.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the loop of plastic on your key fob is damaged it could render the key ineffective. This is a relatively easy fix. For a replacement, you can use wire that is thick or a finishing nail. For each end of the wire or nail make two holes in the loop of plastic. Cut the wire or nail to key width, and place one drop of superglue in each hole. Then, press the wire or nail into the holes until it closes them and allow it to dry.
Another option is to get an alternative shell from a locksmith that sells them. They can remove the programmable component of your key, move it to the new shell, and cut a new blade for much less than a full replacement cost.
It's not the best solution, but it'll bring you back on the road in case your key snapped in half. However, it can be difficult to repair the blade of the key if it's in the ignition. You could try using hair clips or a needle extractor tool to pull the broken piece of the ignition, however this is risky if you're not cautious. The best solution is to contact a locksmith with special tools for safely removing damaged keys from the ignition. You can also have a new key made with the proper cuts for the ignition of your car.
Broken Master Key
If a key is broken inside the lock, you'll need to find it before it gets completely destroyed. There are a few techniques you can employ, such as using lubricants as well as tools such as needle nose pliers and tweezers to pick up a piece of the damaged key and then remove it.
Spray the inside of your lock with WD-40 or a graphite powder. You can also use the hacksaw blade method, which involves sliding the blade across the face of a broken key and grasping onto a few of its 'teeth. If you're successful then you should be in a position to cut the damaged key.
Another helpful tool is a spiral key extractor which you can find in many hardware stores. This tool has a thin rod that is flexible and has spiral threads that can be placed in the keyway, and later bent to the broken portion of the key. Once it has been snagged onto the serrations, you can twist it in a circular direction and press it against the broken part of the key to get it out.
It's worth attempting to remove the master key that is broken before calling an expert locksmith. If you can't get an item out, it's time to call the big guns and get a locksmith to make you a brand new key and reprogram it with your car's transponder.