Don't Buy Into These "Trends" About Repair Car Keys
How to Repair Car Keys
Car keys may appear tiny and insignificant, however they are essential to the operation of your vehicle. The cost of replacing a traditional or contemporary transponder car key could be as high as $200.
There are many ways to repair your car keys yourself at just a fraction of the cost. This article will cover the most frequent car keys issues and the DIY solutions to fix them.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
Cars come with a remote key fob which makes opening doors and trunk easier than ever. The battery inside the device is prone to dying. There are some tricks you can use to resolve this problem quickly.
Check to see if your car is still in the ignition mode. If it is, then the battery of the key fob may simply be low 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 needs to be replaced.
To replace the battery inside the fob, the case open using a screwdriver. Be careful not to apply too much pressure because this could cause the fob's to split in two. If the fob isn't opening try prying the tool more than once around the outside of the case.
Once the fob is opened, remove the mechanical key and then open the electronic section of the car. Install the new battery and then snap back the shell. If your key fob isn't working after this, it could be due to an issue with the remote start system in your car. This will require a professional to diagnose. A trusted mechanic will be capable of helping you if this is the situation. You can also contact roadside assistance for assistance with your vehicle, if you require it.
Broken Key Ring
There are a few steps that you can do if your key fob doesn't function because the ring is broken. First, you must check to see if your broken piece is still inside the ignition. If it's still there it, remove it without causing damage to the ignition lock or the door lock. If you are having trouble getting it out, contact a locksmith for assistance. They have tools that allow you to safely remove a damaged key from the ignition.
A damaged car key could also be caused by corrosion of the plastic frame or circuit board. It is possible to clean the circuit board using the help of rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. This will eliminate corrosion and ensure the contact pads don't become damaged.
If your key isn't working because the ring is broken or was damaged, you might be able to fix it with a strong wire or nail to plug the hole. Superglue can also be used to repair a damaged ring. After cleaning the ring with a moist cloth, apply a small amount superglue on each end of the wire or nail. Allow the pieces to dry, and then press them into place. These DIY solutions might seem appealing, but they're really just temporary solutions. It is recommended to hire an experienced locksmith for long-term repairs. They have the expertise and tools to repair the broken key quickly and efficiently. They can even replace the battery inside your key fob and modify it if necessary.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades can break from a lot of wear and tear. If this happens, it's time to get a new key. Fortunately, the issue isn't as bad as it may appear at first. The primary issue is that the metal blade broke off from the case.
Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is one method to repair it. Then, key fob repairs can use pliers or tweezers to grasp the damaged 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 help you remove the key, but be cautious to not damage the tumbler of the lock.
If you're not able to get the broken piece of the key, contact a locksmith right away. They have special tools that can safely remove keys without causing any further damage.
Super glue can be used to fix the snapped lock. Apply a small amount of glue to the edges of the break and press them together. Make sure the glue is dry before inserting the key into the lock. However, this method isn't secure and you may need to repeat the process a few times before it's successful. Super glue may not hold the key together. This is more of a temporary measure than a permanent solution.
Broken Plastic Loop
If your key fob's plastic loop breaks off it can render the key useless. It's a fairly simple fix. You can make use of wire or a finishing nail as a replacement. For each end of the wire or nail make two holes in the loop of plastic. Cut the wire or nail into a key width, and then place one drop of superglue in each hole. Press the nail or wire into the holes and allow them to dry.
A locksmith who sells replacement shells is an alternative option. They can take the programmable part of your key, transfer it to the new shell, and cut an entirely new blade for less than a complete replacement cost.
This isn't the best option, but it can allow you to travel again if your key has broken in half. However, it could be difficult to repair the key blade if it is in the ignition. If you are not careful, you can employ a hair clip, or a needle to remove the broken part from the ignition. Call a locksmith with special tools to safely remove broken keys from ignitions. They can also create new keys with the appropriate cuts for the ignition of your vehicle, so it will work properly when it is inserted into the lock.
Broken Master Key
If a key breaks inside the lock, you'll have to try to retrieve it before it's 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 pick up a piece of the damaged key and then remove it.
Spray the inside of your lock with WD-40 or a graphite powder. You can also employ the hacksaw blade technique, which involves sliding the blade along the side of a broken key and then grasping a few of its teeth. If you're successful you will be in a position to remove the broken key.
Another helpful tool is a spiral key extractor that is available in a wide range of hardware stores. This tool has a thin flexible rod with spiral threads that can be inserted in the keyway and then bent into the broken part of the key. Once it has been snagged onto the serrations, you can turn it in a circular direction and lever it against the broken part of the key to take it out.
It's worth trying to get rid of a master key that's broken prior to calling an expert locksmith. If you are unable to get an item out, you need to call in the big guns - get a locksmith to make you a brand new key and reprogram it to your car's transponder.