How to Repair Car Keys
The car keys aren't big and may not be considered important, but they're essential for the proper operation of your vehicle. The cost of replacing an old or modern transponder car key can range from $200 to upwards of $200.
However, there are ways to repair your car keys at home for a fraction of the cost. This article will discuss the most common car keys issues as well as their DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
The remote key fobs that come with cars make it easier than ever before to open the trunk, doors and the tailgate. However, the battery inside the device could die. Fortunately, there are some tricks you can employ to resolve this issue in a pinch.
Check to see if your vehicle is still in ignition mode. If it is, the battery on the key fob could be drained instead of dead. To test, press the button on the fob against the ignition button on the vehicle. If this works, then the battery is probably fine and only requires to be replaced.
To replace the fob battery, start by prying the case open using the help of a screwdriver or watch-type device. Be careful not to apply too much force since this may cause the fob's case to split. If the fob isn't coming easily, try putting your pry tool in several places around the outside of the case.
Open the electronic portion of your car after you have removed the mechanical key. Then, you can insert the replacement battery and snap the shell back together. If the key fob won't work after this, there could be a more serious issue with your car's remote start system that requires a professional to diagnose. A trusted mechanic will be able help you if this is the situation. You can also reach out to roadside assistance to assist with your vehicle if needed.
Broken Key Ring
There are a few options you can do if your key fob doesn't function because the ring is broken. First, you must check to see if the broken piece is still inside the ignition. If it is, remove it without damaging the ignition lock or door lock. Contact a locksmith if are having trouble removing the key. They have special tools to safely remove a broken key from the ignition.
A broken car key could be caused by corrosion of the plastic frame or circuit board. Clean the board with the help of rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. This will get rid of the corrosion and stop damage to the contact pads.
You can repair a damaged ring by using a thick wire or nail to seal the hole. You can also use superglue to repair a broken ring. After cleaning the ring with a wet cloth apply a small amount of superglue to the ends of the wire or nail. Then, press the pieces together and let them dry prior to using your car. These DIY solutions may seem appealing, but they are only temporary solutions. For long-term repairs, it's recommended to get an experienced locksmith. They have the experience and tools to fix the broken key quickly and effectively. They can even replace the battery inside your key fob, and reprogram it if needed.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades might break due to wear and tear. If this happens, it's time to purchase a new key. Fortunately, remote car key repair near me isn't as bad as it might seem at first. The main issue is that the metal blade has separated from the case.
One method to fix this is spraying the key hole with fluid that lubricates the key hole. You can then use pliers or tweezers to grasp the broken end of the key and pull it. If the key is magnetic, you could also use a magnet to help pull it out. Use a magnet to assist you remove the key, but be careful to not sever the tumbler of the lock.
Contact a locksmith immediately when you are unable remove the broken part of the key. They have tools that permit them to safely remove keys without causing further damage.
You can also use super glue to fix a snapped key. Apply a small amount of glue to the edges of the break and press them together. Wait until the glue has dried before inserting the key into the lock. This method is not very reliable, and you may need to repeat the process several times before it does the trick. remote car key repair near me might not be able to hold the key in place. This is more of a temporary solution rather than an option that is permanent.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the loop of plastic on your key fob fails it could make the key ineffective. This is a simple fix. You can make use of wire or a finishing nail as a replacement. For each end of the wire or nail you need to drill two holes into the loop of plastic. Cut the wire or nail into a key width, and place a small drop of superglue in each hole. Put the nail or wire into the holes until it closes them and let it dry.
A locksmith who sells replacement shells is another option. They can take the programmable portion of your key, transfer it to the new shell, and cut the new blade for less than a full replacement cost.
It's not the best solution, but it'll help you get back on the road in case your key snapped in half. It can be difficult to repair when the key blade is in the ignition however. You can try using hair clips, a needle or an extractor tool to pull the broken part out of the ignition, but this can be risky if not careful. Get a locksmith equipped with special tools to safely remove broken keys from ignitions. You can also get a new key made with the correct cuts for the ignition of your vehicle.
Broken Master Key
If a key gets damaged inside the lock, you'll need to find it before it is completely destroyed. There are a few techniques that you can try, such as using lubricants as well as tools such as needle nose pliers or tweezers to take a small piece of the broken key and then remove it.
Spray the inside of your lock with WD-40 or graphite powder. You can also try hacksaw blades by sliding the blade across the face of the broken key, and grasping onto a few of its teeth.' If you are successful then you should be in a position to remove the broken key.
Many hardware stores carry tools for key extraction that spiral. This has a thin flexible bar with spiral threads that can be inserted into the keyway, and then bent to reach into the damaged section of the key. Once it has hooked onto the serrations, it is possible to twist it in a circular direction and push it against the damaged portion of the key to get it out.
It's worth trying to get rid of a broken master key before calling an expert locksmith. If you're not able to get rid of the broken piece then you'll have to call a locksmith. A locksmith can make you an entirely new key that will be programmed to the transponder of your car.