Repair Car Keys The Process Isn't As Hard As You Think
How to Repair Car Keys
Car keys might seem tiny and insignificant, however they are crucial for the proper operation of your vehicle. Replacing an old key or a transponder one could cost as much as $200.
There are solutions to fix your car keys yourself for less than the cost. This article will cover the most frequent car keys problems and their DIY fixes.
Dead Key Fob Battery
The remote key fobs that are included with cars make it easier than ever before to open the trunk, doors and the tailgate. The battery in the device is prone to dying. There are, however, some techniques that can be employed to solve this problem in an emergency.
Check to see if your vehicle is in ignition mode. If it is, the key fob's battery may be low, but not dead. To test this, press the fob's button against the ignition button on the vehicle. If this does not work, the battery is probably working fine and only requires to be replaced.
To replace the fob's battery, start by prying open the case with the help of a screwdriver or watch-type device. Don't apply too much force as this could cause the fob's case split. If the fob doesn't open, try using your pry tool several times around the outside of case.
Once the fob is opened, remove the mechanical key and open the electronic portion of the car. Insert the new battery and snap back the shell. If the key fob isn't working after this procedure, there could be a bigger problem with your car's remote start system that requires a professional diagnosis. A reputable mechanic will capable of helping you if this is the situation. You can also reach out to roadside assistance for help with your vehicle in case you need it.
Broken Key Ring
If your key fob won't work because the ring broke, there are a few things you could try. First, you must check to see if the damaged piece is still in the ignition. If it is, remove it without damaging the lock on the ignition or door lock. Contact a locksmith if are having difficulty taking the key off. They have specialized tools that are able to safely remove a damaged key from the ignition.
A damaged car key could also be the result of corrosion on the plastic frame or circuit board. It is possible to clean the board with rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. This will remove corrosion and ensure that the contact pads don't get damaged.
If your key isn't starting because of a broken ring or was damaged, you might be able to repair it using a sturdy wire or nail to close the hole. Superglue can be used to fix the broken key ring. First, clean the broken rings with a damp cloth and then apply a small amount superglue to each end of the wire or nail. Press the pieces together and let them dry prior to using your car. These DIY solutions might seem appealing, but they're only a temporary solution. For long-term repairs, you'll want to get an experienced locksmith. They have the tools and knowledge to repair a damaged car key quickly and efficiently. They can even replace the battery in the key fob and modify it if necessary.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades break from a lot of wear and tear. If this occurs, you ought to purchase a new one. This problem isn't nearly as serious as you might think at first glance. The main problem is that the metal blade snapped off the case.
One method to fix this is spraying the key hole with a lubricant. You can then employ pliers or tweezers grasp the damaged end of the key and pull it. If the key is magnetic, you can also try using a magnetic tool to pull it out. Be careful not to use a magnet on an ignition key as it could cause the tumbler in the lock to break.
Contact a locksmith right away in the event that you are unable to remove the broken part of the key. They're equipped with special tools that can safely remove keys without causing damage.
Super glue can be used to fix an open lock that has snapped. Apply a small amount of glue to the edges and press them together. Make sure the glue is dry before inserting the key into the lock. This method is not very secure, and you could have to repeat it a few times before it works. In addition the super glue might not be enough to keep the key in place. This is more of a temporary solution rather than a permanent one.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the plastic loop is damaged it could render the key ineffective. Luckily, this is a fairly simple fix. You can make use of wire or a nail for finishing as a replacement. 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 the superglue drop in each hole. Then, press the wire or nail into the holes and let them dry.
Another option is to get the replacement shell from a locksmith that sells them. remote key fob repair near me can transfer the programmable part of your key into the new shell and cut a brand new blade for a fraction of the cost.
It's not the most ideal solution, but it'll get you back on the road in case your key split in half. However, it could be difficult to fix the key blade if it is in the ignition. If you're not careful you could make use of a hair clip or a needle to take the damaged part from the ignition. Contact a locksmith who has special tools to safely remove broken keys from ignitions. They can also make you a new key with the appropriate cuts for the ignition of your vehicle and ensure it works 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 use lubricants, tweezers, and needle nose pliers for grabbing the fragments of a damaged key.
To begin, spray the interior of your lock with a lubricant like graphite powder or WD-40. You can also employ the hacksaw blade method, which involves moving the blade along the side of a broken key and grabbing onto some of its teeth.' If you are successful you will be in a position to take the broken key out.
Another helpful tool is a spiral key extractor, that is available in a wide range of hardware stores. This tool has a thin rod that is flexible and has spiral threads that can be inserted in the keyway, and later bent into the broken part of the key. Once it has caught onto the serrations, you can turn the bar in a circle and then pull it up against the broken section of the key.
Before calling a locksmith, try to get rid of the broken master key. If you're unable to pull a piece out, you need to call the big guns to let a locksmith cut you a new key and reprogram it with your car's transponder.