Repair Car Keys: What Nobody Has Discussed
How to Repair Car Keys
The car keys aren't big and may not be considered important, but they're vital for the operation of your vehicle. Replacing a traditional or a modern transponder key can cost up to $200.
There are ways to fix your car keys yourself at a fraction of the price. This article will address the most common car keys issues as well as the DIY solutions to fix them.
Dead Key Fob Battery
The remote key fobs that are included with cars make it easier than ever to open the trunk, doors and the tailgate. However, the battery in this device can die. Fortunately, there are some tricks you can employ to solve this problem in a pinch.
Check to see if your car is still in the ignition mode. If it is, then the battery on the key fob could simply be low instead of dead. To test, press the button on the fob against the ignition button of the vehicle. If it does not work, the battery is probably in good condition and has to be replaced.
To replace the battery in the fob, pry the case open using a screwdriver. Be TheKeyLab not to put too much pressure on the fob because this could cause the fob's to split apart. If the fob won't open Try using your pry tool several times around the outside of case.
Open the electronic portion of your car after you have removed the mechanical key. Insert the new battery and then snap back the shell. If the key fob doesn't work after this, there could be a larger problem with your car's remote start system that requires a professional diagnostic. A reputable mechanic will be capable of helping you if this is the situation. If you need help with your vehicle and you need help, you can call roadside assistance.
Broken Key Ring
If your key fob won't work because the ring has broken, there are a few options you might try. Look to see if can locate the broken part within the ignition. If it's still inside the ignition, take it out without damaging either the ignition lock or the door lock. Call a locksmith if you are having trouble removing the key. They have tools that can safely remove a 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 and ruby alcohol. This will remove corrosion and ensure the contact pads don't get damaged.
If your key isn't starting because the ring is broken, you may be able to fix it using a sturdy wire or nail to seal the hole. You can also use superglue to fix a broken ring. After cleaning the ring with a wet cloth, apply a small amount superglue on each end of the wire or nail. Press the pieces together and allow them to dry before using your vehicle. These DIY solutions may sound appealing, but they're only a temporary solution. It's best to hire an expert locksmith for repairs that last. They have the experience and tools to repair the broken key quickly and effectively. They can replace the battery and reprogram your key fob if necessary.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades might break due to wear and tear. If this happens, it's probably time to buy a new key. This problem isn't nearly as serious as you believe at first. The main problem is that the blade has broken off from 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 could also try using a magnetic tool to assist in pulling it out. Be careful not to use a magnetic tool on an ignition key because it could cause the tumbler of the lock to break.
If you're unable to take the broken piece from the key, call a locksmith right away. They have the right tools to safely extract keys without causing further damage.
You can also use super glue to repair a snapped key. Apply a small amount of glue to the edges and press them together. Make sure the glue has dried before inserting the key into the lock. This method isn't very reliable, and you might have to repeat it several times before it does the trick. Super glue might not be able to hold the key in place. So, this is more of a temporary measure rather than an option that can last.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the plastic loop on your key fob breaks it could render the key useless. This is a relatively easy fix. As a replacement alternative, you can opt for an extremely thick wire or a finishing nail. Make two holes in the plastic loop that is broken for each end of the wire or nail. Cut the wire or nail to the desired width, and place a small drop of superglue into each hole. Then, press the wire or nail into the holes until it closes them, and then let it dry.
A locksmith who sells replacement shells is an alternative option. They can transfer the programmable part of your key into the new shell, and cut a brand new blade for less than the cost.
It's not the ideal solution, but it'll help you get back on the road in case your key broke in half. It's not easy to fix when the blade of the key is in the ignition however. You could try using hair clips or needle extractor tool to pull the broken part of the ignition, however this can be risky if not cautious. The best solution is to contact a locksmith with special tools for safely removing broken keys from the ignition. They can also create a new key with the correct cuts for your ignition, so it will work perfectly when it is put into the lock.
Broken Master Key
If a key gets damaged inside the lock, you'll have to find it before it is completely destroyed. You can use the tweezers, lubricants and needle nose pliers to grab the fragments of a damaged 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 side of the broken key, and hooking onto some of the 'teeth'. If you succeed in doing this, you will be able to remove the broken key from the lock.
Many hardware stores sell tools for key extraction that spiral. This tool is a thin flexible rod with spiral threads that can be inserted into the keyway, and then bent into the broken part of the key. Once it is hooked to the serrations, you can turn it in a circular motion, and lever it against the broken part of the key to pull it out.
It's worth attempting to remove a master key that's broken prior to calling an expert locksmith. If you're not able to remove the broken piece, you'll need to call a locksmith. A locksmith can make you a new key that will be programmed to your car transponder.