How to Repair Car Keys
Car keys might seem tiny and insignificant, but they are crucial to the functioning of your vehicle. Replacing a traditional or a transponder one could cost as much as $200.
There are ways to fix your car keys yourself at just a fraction of the cost. This article will discuss the most frequently encountered car keys issues and the DIY solutions to fix them.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
Cars are equipped with remote key fobs that allows opening the doors, trunk and tailgate easier than ever before. However, the battery in this device can die. There are a few strategies you can use to resolve this issue quickly.
Examine if your vehicle is in ignition mode. If it is, the key fob battery may be drained instead of dead. To test, press the fob's button against the ignition button of the vehicle. If this does not work, the battery is probably in good condition and needs to be replaced.
To replace the battery inside the fob, you need to open the case using an screwdriver. Be careful not to apply too much force, as this may cause the fob's case to split. If the fob isn't opening Try using your pry tool more than once around the outside of case.
Once the fob is open, remove the mechanical key, and then open the electronic portion of the car. Then insert the replacement battery and snap the shell back together. If the key fob doesn't work after this, there may be a more serious problem with your car's remote start system that requires a professional diagnosis. If this is the case, a trusted mechanic should be able help you. You can also call roadside assistance to assist with your vehicle, if you require it.
Broken Key Ring
There are a few things that you can do if your key fob doesn't work because the ring is broken. Look to see if can find the broken piece in the ignition. If it is, you should remove it without damaging the lock on the ignition or door lock. If you're having difficulty getting it out, contact an expert locksmith. They have specialized tools that are able to safely remove the damaged key from the ignition.
A broken car key could also be caused by corrosion of the plastic frame or circuit board. It is possible to clean the circuit board using rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. This will remove the corrosion and stop damage to the contact pads.
Repair a damaged ring using a strong wire or nail to seal the hole. Superglue can also be used to repair a broken ring. First, clean the broken ring with a damp towel and then apply a small amount of superglue on each end of the wire or nail. Then, press the pieces together and let them dry prior to using your car. These DIY solutions may seem appealing, however they are only a temporary solution. It's best to hire an experienced locksmith for long-term repairs. 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 modify it if necessary.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades may break due to wear and tear. If this happens, it's time to buy a new key. The issue isn't as serious as you might think at first. The main problem is that the blade snapped off the case.
Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is one solution to fix it. Then you can use pliers, pins, or tweezers to grab the broken end of the key and pull it out. You could 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 sever the lock tumbler.
If remote key repairs 're not able to remove the broken piece from the key, call a locksmith right away. They're equipped with special tools that can safely remove keys without causing further damage.
Super glue can be used to fix a snapped lock. Apply a small amount of glue to the edges and press them together. Wait until the glue is dry before you insert your key into the lock. This method isn't very secure, and you could have to repeat it a few times before it is successful. Plus, the super glue may not be strong enough to hold the key together. This is more of a temporary fix than a permanent one.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the plastic loop gets damaged it could render the key useless. Luckily, this is an easy fix. You can use wire or a nail for finishing as a replacement. Drill two holes into the plastic loop that is broken for each end of the nail or wire. Cut the nail or wire to a key width, then put a drop of superglue in each hole. Then, press the wire or nail into the holes to close them and allow it to dry.
A locksmith who sells replacement shells is an alternative option. They can take out the programmable portion of your key, transfer it to the new shell and cut an entirely new blade for less than a complete replacement cost.
It's not the ideal solution, but it will get you back on the road in case your key broke in half. It can be difficult to fix the blade of the key if it's in the ignition. You could try using a hair clip or a needle extractor tool to pull the broken piece of the ignition, but this can be risky if not careful. The best solution is to call a locksmith who has special tools for safely removing broken keys from the ignition. You can also have a new key made with the correct cuts to fit the ignition of your car.
Broken Master Key
If a key breaks inside the lock, you'll have to try to retrieve it before it gets completely destroyed. You can use tweezers, lubricants, and needle nose pliers to grab the fragment of a broken key.
Spray the inside of your lock with WD-40 or graphite powder. You can also try the hacksaw blade method, which involves carefully sliding the blade down along the edge of the broken key, and connecting to a few of the 'teeth'. If you are able to do this you should be able pull out the broken key from the lock.
Many hardware stores carry tools for key extraction that spiral. It's a thin and flexible bar with spiral threads, which can be put into the keyway, and then bent to reach into the broken section of the key. Once it is firmly anchored to the serrations, you can twist the bar in a circle and pull it against the damaged section of the key.
Before calling a locksmith, attempt to take out the damaged master key before calling a locksmith. If key fob repair to pull the piece out, you need to call in the big guns to let a locksmith make you a brand new key and reprogram it using your car's transponder.