How to Repair Car Keys
The car keys aren't big and may not be considered important, but they are essential for the proper operation of your car. Replacing an old key or a transponder one can cost upwards of $200.
There are methods to fix your car keys at home with only a fraction of the cost. This article will cover some of the most common car key problems and their DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Battery
The remote key fobs that come with cars make it simpler than ever to open the trunk, doors, and the tailgate. However, the battery in the device could die. Fortunately, there are some tricks that can be used to solve this problem in the event of a need.
Check to see if your car is still in the ignition mode. If it is, the key fob battery may simply be depleted instead of dead. To test this, press the button on the key fob up against the vehicle's ignition button. If this does not work, the battery is probably fine and just requires to be replaced.
To replace the battery in the fob, you need to the case open using an screwdriver. Do not apply too much force since this may cause the fob's case split. If the fob isn't opening try prying the tool more than once around the outside of case.
Open the electronic portion of your car after you have removed the mechanical key. Then, you can insert the replacement battery and then snap the shell together. If the key fob does not work after this, it could be a larger problem with the remote start system of your vehicle. This will require an expert to identify. If this is the case, a trusted mechanic should be able to assist 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 broke, there are a few things you might try. First, you should check to see if your broken piece is still inside the ignition. If it's still in there, remove it without damaging the ignition lock or the door lock. If you're having difficulty removing it, call a locksmith for assistance. They have specialized tools that allow you to safely remove keys that are damaged from the ignition.
A damaged car key could also be the result of corrosion on the plastic frame or circuit board. Clean the board with the help of rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. This will remove the corrosion and prevent damage to the contact pads.
Repair a damaged ring by using a thick wire or nail to seal the hole. Superglue can be used to fix the broken key ring. After cleaning the ring using a damp cloth apply a small amount of superglue to the ends of the wire or nail. Allow the pieces to dry, and then press them together. These DIY solutions may appear appealing, but they're only a stopgap measure. For long-term repairs, it's best to work with an expert locksmith. car key fob repair near me have the knowledge and tools to repair a broken key quickly and effectively. They can replace the battery and reprogram the key fob, 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, this issue isn't as bad as it might seem at first. The main problem is that the blade snapped off the case.
One solution is to spray the key hole with a oil-based lubricant. Then you can use pliers pins, or tweezers to grasp the end of the broken key and pull it out. You can also use a magnet if the key is magnetic. Be cautious not to use a magnetic tool on an ignition key since it could cause the tumbler in the lock to break.
Contact a locksmith immediately in the event that you are unable to remove the broken piece of the key. They have the right tools to safely remove keys without causing further damage.
Super glue can be used to fix the snapped lock. Apply a small amount glue to the edges of the break and press them together. Wait until the glue is dry before inserting the key into the lock. But this method isn't very reliable and you might have to repeat the process a few times before it's successful. Additionally, the super glue may not be enough strong to hold the key together. This is more of a stopgap measure than an option that can last.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the plastic loop is damaged it can render the key ineffective. This is a simple fix. As a replacement alternative, you can opt for wire that is thick or a finishing nail. Drill two holes in the damaged loop of plastic for each end of the nail or wire. Cut the wire or nail to the desired width, then place a small drop of superglue in each hole. Then, press the wire or nail into the holes and let them dry.
Another option is to purchase an alternative shell from a locksmith who sells them. They can transfer the programmable part of your key into the new shell and cut a brand new blade for a fraction of the cost.
This isn't the most efficient solution, but will allow you to travel again if your key been cut in half. However, it could be difficult to fix the key blade if it is in the ignition. If you are not careful you could employ a hair clip, or a needle to remove the broken piece from the ignition. The best solution is to contact a locksmith who has special tools for safely removing damaged keys from the ignition. They can also make you a new key with the correct cuts for your ignition, so it will work correctly when inserted into the lock.
Broken Master Key
If a key gets damaged 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 and tools like needle nose pliers and tweezers. These tools can take a small piece of the damaged key and pull it out.
To start, spray the inside of your lock with a lubricant like graphite powder or WD-40. You can also try the hacksaw blade method that involves carefully sliding the blade along the side of the broken key and attaching it to the 'teeth'. If you succeed in doing this, you should be able take the broken key from the lock.
Many hardware stores offer a spiral key extraction tool. This has a thin flexible bar with spiral threads, which can be put into the keyway and bent to reach into the broken part of the key. Once it has hooked onto the serrations, it is possible to twist it in a circular motion, and lever it against the broken part of the key to pull it out.
It's worth attempting to remove the master key that is broken before calling an expert locksmith. If you're not able to get rid of the broken piece it's time to call a locksmith. A locksmith can give you an entirely new key that will be programmed to the transponder in your car.