How to Repair Car Keys
Car keys may appear small and insignificant, but they are crucial to the operation of your vehicle. Replacing a traditional or a transponder one could cost as much as $200.
However, there are ways to fix your car keys at home with less than. This article will cover the most frequently encountered car keys issues and the DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Battery
Cars are equipped with a remote key fob which makes opening doors, trunk and tailgate easier than ever before. However, the battery inside this device can die. There are, however, a few techniques that can be employed to solve this problem in an emergency.
Check to see if your vehicle is in ignition mode. If it is the battery on the key fob could be low rather than dead. To test this, push the button on the key fob right against the ignition button. If it works, then the battery is probably in good condition and only requires to be replaced.
To replace the battery inside the fob, you need to the case open using an screwdriver. Do not apply too much force since this could cause the fob's case split. If the fob isn't opening Try using your pry tool several times around the outside of the case.
Open the electronic portion of your car after you have removed the mechanical key. Then insert the replacement battery and then snap the shell back together. If the key fob won't work after this, there may be a larger problem with the remote start system that requires a professional diagnostic. A reputable mechanic will be able help you in this situation. If you need help with your car or vehicle, you can get roadside assistance.
Broken Key Ring
There are a few options that you can do if your key fob doesn't function because the ring is broken. First, you should check to see if the damaged piece is still in the ignition. If it is, remove it without damaging the lock on the ignition or door lock. Contact car key immobiliser repair if are having trouble taking the key off. They have specialized tools that are able to safely remove the damaged key from the ignition.
A broken car key could be caused by corrosion on the plastic frame or circuit board. You can clean the circuit board using the help of rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. This will remove corrosion and ensure that the contact pads don't become damaged.
Repair a damaged ring by using a thick wire or nail to close the hole. You can also use superglue to fix a broken ring. First, clean the damaged ring with a damp cloth and then apply a small amount of superglue on each end of the nail or wire. Press the pieces together and allow them to dry before using your vehicle. These DIY solutions might seem appealing, but they're just a stopgap measure. For long-term repairs, it's best to work with a professional locksmith. They have the experience and tools to fix the broken key quickly and efficiently. They can even replace the battery on your key fob and reprogram it if needed.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades can break from a lot of wear and tear. If this happens, it's probably time to get a new key. This problem isn't nearly as serious as you might think at first glance. The main problem is that the metal blade broke off from the case.
Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is one way to fix it. Then, you can use pliers or tweezers to grab the broken end of the key and pull it. You can also make use of a magnet if the key is magnetic. Use a magnet to help you remove the key, but be cautious to not damage the lock tumbler.
Contact a locksmith immediately if you are unable to take out the damaged part of the key. They're equipped with special tools that allow them to safely remove keys without causing damage.
You can also use super glue to fix a snapped key. Apply a small amount of glue to the edges and press them in. Wait until the glue has dried before inserting the key into the lock. This method isn't reliable and you may have to repeat the process a few times before it's successful. In addition, the super glue may not be strong enough to keep the key in place. Therefore, this is more of a stopgap measure rather than an option that can last.
Broken Plastic Loop
If your key fob's plastic loop is damaged it can render the key useless. It's a fairly simple fix. You can use wire or a finishing nail as a replacement. Make two holes in the damaged loop of plastic for each end of the nail or wire. Cut the wire or nail to key width, and place tiny drops of superglue in each hole. Apply the nail or wire into the holes and let them dry.
Another option is to purchase an alternative shell from a locksmith who sells them. They can remove the programmable component of your key, transfer it to the new shell and cut a new blade for much less than a complete replacement cost.
This is not the best solution, but it will allow you to travel again if your key split in half. It's difficult to fix if the key blade is in the ignition, however. You can try using hair clips or a needle extractor tool to pull the broken piece of the ignition, however it's risky if not cautious. Get a locksmith equipped with special tools to safely remove broken keys from ignitions. You can also request a new key made with the correct cuts for the ignition of your car.
Broken Master Key
If a key is broken inside the lock, you'll need to try to retrieve it before it is completely destroyed. You can use tweezers, lubricants, and needle nose pliers for grabbing the fragments of a damaged key.
Spray the inside of the lock with WD-40 or graphite powder. You could also try the hacksaw blade method, that involves carefully sliding the blade down along the edge of the broken key and attaching it to the 'teeth' - if you succeed in doing this, you should be able to pull out the broken key from the lock.
Another tool that is useful is an extractor for keys spiral, which you can find in a wide range of hardware stores. It is a thin rod that is flexible and has spiral threads that can be inserted in the keyway, and later bent into the broken part of the key. Once it has hooked onto the serrations, you can twist it in a circular motion, and lever it against the broken portion of the key to pull it out.
Before contacting a locksmith, try to remove the broken master key. If you're not able to take the broken piece off, you'll need to call in the professionals. Locksmiths can create you a new key that will be programmed to the transponder of your car.
