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 or a transponder key that is modern can cost up to $200.
There are ways to fix your car keys yourself at just a fraction of the cost. This article will go over the most frequently encountered car key problems and their DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
Cars come with remote key fobs that allows opening the doors, trunk and tailgate easier than ever before. The battery of this device is prone to dying. There are a few tricks you can use to solve this problem quickly.
First, determine if the car is still in ignition mode. If it is, the key fob battery may be drained instead of dead. To test this, press the button on the key fob right towards the ignition button. If it works, then the battery is probably working fine and requires to be replaced.
To replace the fob's battery, begin by prying open the case with a screwdriver or watch-type tool. Be cautious not to apply too much pressure because this could cause the fob to break apart. If the fob isn't opening open with ease, try placing your pry tool in more than one place around the outside of the case.
After the fob has been opened, remove the mechanical key, and then open the electronic part of the car. Then, you can insert the replacement battery and then snap the shell together. If the key fob doesn't work after this procedure, there could be a more serious problem with your car's remote start system that requires a professional to diagnose. A reputable mechanic will be able help you in this situation. If you need help with your car and you need help, you can call roadside assistance.
Broken Key Ring
There are a few steps you can do in the event that your key fob won't work because the ring has been broken. Check to see if you can locate the broken part inside the ignition. If it's still inside, remove it without damaging either the ignition lock or the door lock. If you're having difficulty removing it, call a locksmith for help. They have specialized tools that allow you to safely remove the damaged key from the ignition.
A damaged car key could also be caused by corrosion on the plastic frame or circuit board. You can clean the circuit board using a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol. remote car key repairs will remove corrosion and ensure the contact pads aren't damaged.
You can repair a damaged ring using a strong wire or nail to close the hole. Superglue can also be used to fix a broken ring. First, clean the damaged ring with a damp cloth and then apply a small amount of superglue to each end of the wire or nail. Press the pieces together and allow them to dry before using your car. These DIY solutions might seem appealing, however they are only temporary solutions. For long-term repairs, it's recommended to get a professional locksmith. They have the tools and knowledge to repair a damaged car key quickly and efficiently. They can even replace the battery inside your key fob and reprogram it if needed.
Broken Key Blade
Key blades can break due to wear and tear. If this occurs, you must purchase a new one. Fortunately, this issue isn't as severe as it may appear at first. The main issue is that the metal blade has separated from the case.
Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is a way to fix the problem. You can then make use of pliers or tweezers grab the broken end of the key and pull it. If the key is magnetic, you could also try using a magnetic tool to pull it out. Just be careful not to use a magnetic tool on an ignition key as it could cause the tumbler of the lock to break.
Contact a locksmith right away when you are unable take out the damaged part of the key. They have tools that let them safely remove keys without causing damage.
Super glue can be used to fix the snapped lock. Apply a small amount to the edges and press them together. After that, wait until the glue is dry before inserting your key into the lock. This method isn't extremely reliable, and you may have to repeat it several times before it works. Super glue might not be able to hold the key together. This is more of a temporary solution than a permanent one.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the plastic loop on your key fob breaks, it can cause the key to become useless. Fortunately, this is a fairly simple fix. To replace it alternative, you can use wire that is thick or a finishing nail. For each end of the nail or wire make two holes in the plastic loop. Cut the wire or nail to a key width, 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 a different option. They can transfer the programmable part of your key to the new shell, and cut an entirely new blade at only a fraction of the price.
It's not the most ideal solution, but it can bring you back on the road if your key split in half. It can be difficult to fix the key blade if it is in the ignition. You can try using a hair clip or a needle extractor tool to remove the damaged piece of the ignition, but this is risky if you're not cautious. The best solution is to call a locksmith who has special tools for safely removing broken keys from the ignition. They can also make you new keys with the appropriate cuts for your ignition, so it will work correctly when inserted into the lock.
Broken Master Key
You'll have to attempt to retrieve the key before it is completely destroyed. You can make use of the tweezers, lubricants and needle nose pliers to grasp the fragment of a broken key.
To start, spray the inside of your lock with a lubricant like graphite powder or WD-40. You can also employ the hacksaw blade technique that involves moving the blade along the side of the broken key, and grabbing onto some of its 'teeth.' If you are successful then you should be in a position to take the broken key out.
Another useful tool is a spiral key extractor which you can find in a wide range of hardware stores. This tool is a thin flexible rod with spiral threads that can be inserted in the keyway and then bent to form the broken part of the key. Once it is firmly anchored to the serrations, you can turn the bar around and then pull it against the broken part of the key.
remote car key repair trying to get rid of a master key that's broken prior to calling an expert locksmith. If you are unable to get a piece out, you need to call in the big guns and get a locksmith to cut you a brand new key and reprogram it to the transponder in your car.