How to Repair Car Keys
Car keys may seem small and insignificant, but they are vital to the operation of your vehicle. The cost of replacing the traditional or modern transponder car key could be as high as $200.
There are methods to fix your car keys at home for a fraction of the cost. This article will discuss the most common car keys issues as well as their DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Battery
Cars come with remote key fobs which makes opening doors and trunk easier than ever before. However, car keys repair inside the device could die. There are a few strategies you can use to solve this issue quickly.
Examine if your vehicle is in ignition mode. If it is the battery of the key fob could be low rather than dead. To test this, push the button on the key fob right against the ignition button. If this is successful, the battery is likely fine and will only need to be replaced.
To replace the fob's battery, start by prying the case open using a screwdriver or watch-type tool. Be cautious not to apply too much pressure because this could cause the fob to break in two. If the fob isn't opening easily, try putting your pry tool into more than one place around the outside of the case.
Open the electronic portion of your vehicle after you have removed the mechanical key. Insert the new battery and then snap back the shell. If the key fob isn't working after this procedure, there could be a larger problem with the remote start system that requires a professional diagnosis. A reputable mechanic will be in a position to assist you in this situation. You can also call roadside assistance for help with your vehicle, if you require it.
Broken Key Ring
There are a few options to do when your key fob does not function because the ring is broken. Examine if you can locate the broken piece in the ignition. If it is, remove it without damaging the door lock or ignition lock. Call a locksmith if you are having difficulty getting rid of the key. They have specialized tools that allow you to safely remove the damaged key from the ignition.
Another reason for broken car keys is corrosion on the circuit board or plastic frame. You can clean the board with cotton swab. This will eliminate the corrosion and stop damage to the contact pads.
If your key isn't working because of a broken ring or was damaged, you might be able to repair it by using a thick wire or nail to plug the hole. You can also use superglue to repair a damaged ring. After cleaning the ring with a wet cloth Apply a small amount superglue on each end of the nail or wire. Then, press the pieces together and allow them to dry before using your vehicle. These DIY solutions may sound appealing, however they are only a temporary measure. For long-term repairs, it's recommended to work with a professional locksmith. They have the expertise and tools to repair damaged keys quickly and efficiently. They can replace the battery and reprogram the key fob, if needed.
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 severe as it appears at first. The problem is that the metal blade has broken off from the case.
Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is a method to fix it. Then you can use pliers, tweezers, or a pin to grab the damaged key and pull it out. If the key is magnetic, you can also use a magnet to pull it out. Use a magnet to help you remove the key, but be cautious to not break the tumbler of the lock.
If you are unable to get the broken piece of key, call an expert locksmith immediately. They have tools that let them safely remove keys without causing damage.
You can also use super glue to repair a snapped key. Apply a small amount of the glue to the edges and press them in. Wait until the glue has dried before inserting your key into the lock. This method isn't very reliable, and you might need to repeat the process several times before it works. Super glue might not be able to hold the key in place. This is more of a temporary fix than a permanent solution.
Broken Plastic Loop
If your key fob's plastic loop gets damaged, it can make the key ineffective. It's an easy fix. As a replacement, you can use an extremely thick wire or a finishing nail. Drill two holes in the damaged loop of plastic for each end of the wire or nail. Cut the wire or nail into a key width, then place one drop of superglue in each hole. Then, press the wire or nail into the holes to seal them, and then let it dry.
Another option is to get a replacement shell from a locksmith that sells them. They can take out the programmable part of your key, move it to the new shell, and cut a new blade for much less than a complete replacement cost.
It's not the ideal solution, but it'll help you get back on the road if your key split in half. It can be difficult to repair the key blade if it is in the ignition. You can try using a hair clip, a needle or an extractor tool to remove the damaged part out of the ignition, however this is risky if you're not careful. The best option is to contact an expert locksmith who has tools for safely removing broken keys from the ignition. They can also design new keys that have the correct cuts for the ignition of your vehicle, so it will work perfectly when it is put into the lock.
Broken Master Key
You'll need to to retrieve the key before it is completely destroyed. There are several methods you can use, including using lubricants and tools like needle nose pliers and tweezers. These tools can take a small piece of the key that has been broken and remove it.
Spray the inside of the lock with WD-40 or a graphite powder. You can also try the hacksaw blade technique, which involves sliding the blade across the face of a damaged key and grasping onto a few of its 'teeth. If you're successful, you should be in a position to remove the broken key.
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 then bent to dig into the damaged section of the key. Once it is hooked to the serrations, it is possible to twist it in a circular direction and push it against the damaged section of the key to get it out.
It's worth attempting to remove a broken master key before calling a professional locksmith. If you can't get an item out, it's time to call the big guns - get a locksmith to cut you a new key and reprogram it using your car's transponder.