How to Repair Car Keys
Car keys may appear tiny 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.
There are solutions to fix your car keys yourself for a fraction of the price. This article will discuss the most frequently encountered car keys issues and their DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
Cars are equipped with remote key fobs which makes opening doors and trunk easier than ever before. However, the battery in this device can die. Fortunately, there are a few tricks you can employ to resolve this issue in an emergency.
First, check if the car is in ignition mode. If it is, the battery on the key fob could simply be low instead of dead. To test this, push the button on the key fob towards the ignition button. If this is successful, the battery is probably fine and needs to be changed.
To replace the fob's battery, first pry open the case with a screwdriver or watch-type tool. Be careful not to apply too much force as this may cause the fob's case split. If the fob won't open, try using your pry tool several times around the outside of case.
Open the electronic portion of your vehicle after you have removed the mechanical key. Then, you can insert the replacement battery and then snap the shell back together. If your key fob does not work after this, it could be due to an problem with the remote start system of your car. This will require an expert to determine the cause. A trusted mechanic will be in a position to assist you in this situation. You can also contact roadside assistance to assist with your vehicle if needed.
Broken Key Ring
If your key fob isn't working because the ring is broken there are a few options you might try. Examine if you can locate the broken piece within the ignition. If it is, you should remove it without damaging the lock on the ignition or door lock. Call a locksmith if you are having trouble removing the key. They have special tools to safely remove a broken key from the ignition.
A broken car key can be caused by corrosion on the plastic frame or circuit board. It is possible to clean the board with cotton swab. This will eliminate the corrosion and prevent damage to the contact pads.
If your key isn't working because the ring is broken, you may be able to repair it with a strong wire or nail to plug the hole. Superglue can be used to repair damaged key rings. After cleaning the ring using a damp cloth apply a small amount of superglue to each end of the nail or wire. Press the pieces together and let them dry prior to using your car. These DIY solutions can seem appealing, but they're only temporary solutions. For long-term repairs, it's recommended to work with an expert locksmith. They have the tools and expertise to fix a broken car key quickly and efficiently. They can even replace the battery in the key fob and change it's programming if required.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades may break due to wear and tear. If this happens, it's probably time to get a new key. Fortunately, this issue isn't as bad as it might seem at first glance. The primary issue is that the metal blade broke off from the case.
Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is one way to repair it. Then, you can use pliers tweezers, or a pin to grab the end of the broken key and remove it. You can also use a magnet if the key is magnetic. Just be careful not to use a magnetic tool on an ignition key because it could cause the tumbler in the lock to break.
Call a locksmith immediately in the event that you are unable to remove the broken part of the key. They're equipped with special tools that let them safely remove keys without causing damage.
Super glue can be used to fix the snapped lock. Apply a small amount of glue to the edges and press them together. Wait until the glue has dried before inserting the key into the lock. But this method isn't very secure and you may need repeat the process several times before it works. Additionally, the super glue may not be enough to keep the key in place. Therefore, this is more of a temporary measure rather than a permanent solution.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the loop of plastic on your key fob fails it could 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 you need to drill two holes into the plastic loop. Cut the wire or nail to the desired width and then place the superglue drop in each hole. Press the wire or nail into the holes to close them and let it dry.
A locksmith who sells replacement shells is a different option. They can remove the programmable component of your key, then transfer it to the new shell and cut the new blade for less than the full replacement cost.
This is not the best option, but it can get you on the road again if your key has been cut in half. However, it could be difficult to repair the key blade if it's in the ignition. If you are not careful you can use a hair clip or needle to remove the broken piece from the ignition. Contact a locksmith who has special tools to safely remove damaged keys from ignitions. You can also request a new key that is made using the proper cuts for the ignition of your vehicle.
Broken Master Key
If a key breaks inside the lock, you'll have to find it before it is completely destroyed. There are several methods you can use, including using lubricants and tools like needle nose pliers or tweezers to take a small piece of the broken key and then remove it.
Spray the inside of the lock with WD-40 or graphite powder. vehicle key repairs can also use the hacksaw blade technique by moving the blade along the sides of a damaged key and then grasping a few of its teeth. If you're successful then you should be in a position to remove the broken key.
Many hardware stores offer tools for key extraction that spiral. It is a thin rod with spiral threads that can be placed in the keyway, and then bent to form the broken part of the key. Once it has gotten caught on the serrations, you can turn the bar in a circle and then pull it up against the broken section of the key.
It's worth trying to remove a master key that's broken prior to calling a professional locksmith. If you are unable 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 with your car transponder.