How to Repair Car Keys
Car keys may appear small and insignificant, but they are crucial for the proper operation of your vehicle. Replacing a traditional key or a transponder one can cost upwards of $200.
There are ways to fix your car keys yourself at a fraction of the price. This article will go over some of the most frequent car keys issues and their DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Battery
Cars are equipped with remote key fobs which makes opening doors, trunk and tailgate easier than ever. The battery of this device is susceptible to dying. However, there are a few tricks that can be used to fix this issue in an emergency.
Check to see if the vehicle is in ignition mode. If it is, then the key fob battery may simply be depleted instead of dead. To test this, press the button on the fob against the ignition button on the vehicle. If this works, then the battery is probably fine and needs to be changed.
To replace the fob battery, start by prying the case open using an instrument like a screwdriver, or watch-type tool. Be cautious not to put too much pressure on the fob because this could cause the fob to break apart. If the fob won't open try prying the tool several times around the outside of the case.
Open the electronic portion of your car once you have removed the mechanical key. Then, insert the battery replacement and snap the shell back together. If your key fob does not work after this procedure, it could be that there is an issue with the remote start system in your car. This requires an expert to identify. If this is the case, a reputable mechanic should be able assist you. If you need help with your car, you can contact roadside assistance.
Broken Key Ring
If your key fob isn't working because the ring has broken, there are a few options you can try. Check to see if you can find the broken piece within the ignition. If it's still inside, remove it without damaging either the ignition lock or the door lock. If you are having trouble getting it out, contact an expert locksmith. They have special tools that allow you to safely remove a damaged key from the ignition.
A broken car key can also be the result of corrosion on the plastic frame or circuit board. You can clean the circuit board using rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. love it will remove corrosion and ensure that the contact pads don't become damaged.
Repair a damaged ring using a strong wire or nail to seal the hole. Superglue can be used to repair a broken key ring. After cleaning the ring using a damp cloth apply a small amount of superglue to the ends of the nail or wire. Apply the glue to the ring and let them dry prior to using your car. These DIY solutions might appear appealing, but they're only an interim measure. For long-term repairs, it's recommended to hire an experienced locksmith. They have the tools and knowledge to fix a broken car key quickly and efficiently. They can replace the battery and reprogram your key fob in the event of need.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades break due to a lot of wear and tear. If this happens, it's probably time to get a new key. Fortunately, this issue isn't as bad as it appears at first. The primary issue is that the blade broke off from the case.
One way to fix this is to spray the key hole with fluid that lubricates the key hole. Then, love it can employ pliers or tweezers grasp the damaged end of the key and pull it. If the key is magnetic, you could also try using a magnetic tool to pull it out. Use a magnet to help you remove the key, but be cautious to not sever the lock tumbler.
Contact a locksmith immediately if you are unable to take out the damaged part of the key. They have special tools that let them safely remove keys without causing further damage.
You can also try super glue to fix a snapped key. Apply a small amount of glue to the edges and press them together. Then, wait until the glue is dry before you insert your key into the lock. This method isn't very reliable, and you might need to repeat the process several times before it does the trick. Additionally, the super glue may not be enough strong to keep the key in place. This is more of a temporary fix than an option that is permanent.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the plastic loop gets damaged, it can make the key useless. Fortunately, this is a fairly easy fix. To replace it alternative, you can opt for an extremely thick wire or a finishing nail. For each end of the nail or wire make two holes in the loop of plastic. Cut the wire or nail to the desired width and then put a drop of superglue in each hole. Then, press the wire or nail into the holes and allow them to dry.
A locksmith who sells replacement shells is another option. They can remove the programmable component of your key, transfer it to the new shell and cut the new blade for less than the full replacement cost.
This isn't the best solution, but will get you on the road again if your key has broken in half. It can be difficult to repair the key blade if it is in the ignition. If you're not careful, you can make use of a hair clip or a needle to take the broken piece from the ignition. Call a locksmith with special tools to safely remove broken keys from ignitions. They can also create new keys that have the correct cuts for the ignition of your vehicle and ensure it works perfectly when it is put into the lock.
Broken Master Key
You'll need to try to retrieve the key before it's completely destroyed. You can make use of lubricants, tweezers, and needle nose pliers to grab the fragments of a damaged key.
To begin, spray the inside of your lock with a lubricant such as graphite powder or WD-40. You can also employ the hacksaw blade technique by moving the blade across the face of the broken key, and then grasping a few of its 'teeth. If you're successful then you should be able to cut the damaged key.
Many hardware stores carry a spiral key extraction tool. This has a thin flexible bar with spiral threads, which can be inserted into the keyway and bent to reach into the broken part of the key. Once it is hooked to the serrations, you can turn it in a circular motion and press it against the broken portion of the key to take it out.
Before contacting a locksmith, try to remove the broken master key. If you can't get the piece out, you need to call the big guns to let a locksmith cut you a new key and reprogram it to the transponder of your car.