How to Repair Car Keys
Car keys may appear small and insignificant, but they are essential to the operation of your vehicle. Replacing a traditional or a modern transponder key can cost upwards of $200.
There are ways to fix your car keys yourself for just a fraction of the cost. This article will address the most frequent car keys issues and their DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Battery
The remote key fobs for keys that come with cars make it simpler than ever before to open the trunk, doors, and the tailgate. The battery inside the device is prone to dying. There are, however, a few tricks you can employ to resolve this issue in a pinch.
Check to see if the vehicle is still in ignition mode. If so the battery on the key fob might be low instead of dead. To test this, press the fob's button against the ignition button on the vehicle. If it works, the battery is probably in good condition and will only need to be replaced.
To replace the battery inside the fob, the case open using a screwdriver. Don't apply too much force, as this may cause the fob's casing to split. If the fob isn't coming open easily, try wedge your pry tool into several places around the outside of the case.
Once the fob is open take out the mechanical key and then open the electronic portion of the car. Then, you can insert the replacement battery and then snap the shell back together. If key fob repair near me does not work after this, it may be an issue with the remote start system of your vehicle. This requires a professional to diagnose. A trusted mechanic will be able help 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 isn't functioning because the ring is broken, there are a few options you could try. Look to see if can locate the broken part inside the ignition. If it is, remove it without damaging the door lock or ignition lock. Contact a locksmith if are having trouble removing the key. They have the right tools to safely remove a broken key from the ignition.
Another reason that can lead to broken car keys is corrosion on the circuit board or frame. You can clean the circuit board using cotton swab. This will get rid of the corrosion and prevent damage to the contact pads.
If your key isn't starting because of a broken ring or was damaged, you might be able to fix it using a sturdy wire or nail to plug the hole. Superglue can be used to repair damaged key rings. After cleaning the ring with a moist cloth apply a small amount of superglue to each end of the nail or wire. Allow the pieces to dry, and then press them in place. These DIY solutions can look appealing, but they're just a stopgap measure. For long-term repairs, you'll want to work with an experienced locksmith. They have the knowledge and tools to repair a broken key quickly and effectively. They can even replace the battery in your key fob and change it's programming if required.
Broken Key Blade
Key blades can break due to wear and tear. If this happens, it's probably time to get a new key. Fortunately, the issue isn't as serious as it appears at first. The main problem is that the metal blade broke off from the case.
Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is a way to repair it. Then, you can employ pliers or tweezers grasp the broken end of the key and pull 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 lock tumbler to break.
Contact a locksmith immediately in the event that you are unable to take out the damaged part of the key. They're equipped with special tools to safely remove keys without causing damage.
Super glue can be used to fix an open lock that has snapped. Apply a small amount glue to the edges of the crack and press them together. After that, wait until the glue is dry before you insert your key into the lock. This method is not very reliable, and you may have to repeat it a few times before it works. Additionally the super glue might not be enough to keep the key in place. So, this is more of a temporary measure than a permanent solution.
Broken Plastic Loop
If your key fob's plastic loop gets damaged, it can make the key ineffective. Luckily, this is an easy fix. You can make use of wire or a finishing nail to replace it. Make two holes in the plastic loop that is broken for each end of the nail or wire. Cut the wire or nail to key width and put a drop of superglue in each hole. Press the nail or wire into the holes and let them dry.
A locksmith who sells replacement shells is a different option. They can transfer the programmable part of your key into the new shell and cut an entirely new blade at only a fraction of the price.
It's not the most ideal solution, but it can get you back on the road if your key broke in half. However, it can be difficult to fix the key blade if it is in the ignition. You can try using a hair clip or a needle extractor tool to remove the damaged piece of the ignition, however it's risky if not cautious. The best choice is to call an expert locksmith who has tools for safely removing broken keys from the ignition. You can also have a new key made with appropriate cuts for the ignition of your car.
Broken Master Key
If a key is broken inside the lock, you'll need to find it before it is completely destroyed. You can employ lubricants, tweezers, and needle nose pliers to grab the fragments of a damaged key.
Spray the inside of your lock with WD-40 or a graphite powder. You can also try the hacksaw method, which involves carefully sliding the blade along the edge of the broken key and attaching it to the teeth - if you succeed in doing this you should be able to pull out the broken key from the lock.
Another useful tool is a spiral key extractor that is available in a variety of hardware stores. It's a thin and flexible bar with spiral threads, which can be inserted into the keyway and bent to reach into the damaged section of the key. Once it has hooked onto the serrations, you can twist it in a circular motion and press it against the broken section of the key to take it out.
It's worth attempting to remove the master key that is broken before calling an expert locksmith. If you can't get an item out, you need to call the big guns - get a locksmith to cut you a brand new key and reprogram it with your car's transponder.