How to Repair Car Keys
The car keys are small and might not seem to be important, but they are essential for the operation of your vehicle. The cost of replacing an old or modern transponder car key can range from $200 to upwards of $200.
However, there are ways to repair your car keys at home with less than. This article will discuss the most frequently encountered car keys problems and the DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Battery
Cars come with remote key fobs that makes opening the doors and trunk easier than ever before. However, the battery inside this device can die. There are a few tricks you can use to resolve this problem quickly.
First, determine if the car is in ignition mode. If so the battery of the key fob could be low rather than dead. To test this, press the button on the key fob straight towards the ignition button. If it works, the battery is likely fine and only needs to be changed.
To replace the battery within the fob, open the case with the screwdriver. Be careful not to press too hard since this could cause the fob to break apart. If the fob doesn't seem to be coming open with ease, try placing your pry tool in multiple places on the outside of the case.
Open the electronic portion of your car once you have removed the mechanical key. Then, insert the battery replacement and snap the shell back together. If your key fob still does not work after this, it may be due to an problem with the remote start system of your car. This requires a professional to diagnose. If this is the case, a trusted mechanic should be able to assist you. You can also call roadside assistance for assistance with your vehicle in case you need it.
key fob repair
If your key fob isn't working because the ring has broken there are a few options you can try. Examine if you 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. Call a locksmith if you are having difficulty getting rid of the key. They have special tools that are able to safely remove keys that are damaged from the ignition.
A broken car key could be caused by corrosion of the plastic frame or circuit board. You can clean the circuit board using the help of rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. This will remove corrosion and ensure the contact pads don't get damaged.
If your key won't start because of a broken ring, you may be able to repair it using a sturdy wire or nail to plug the hole. Superglue can be used to fix the broken key ring. First, clean the broken ring with a damp towel and then apply a small amount superglue on each end of the nail or wire. Let the pieces dry and then press them in place. These DIY solutions may appear appealing, but they're only a stopgap measure. For long-term repairs, it's best to get an experienced locksmith. They have the tools and expertise to repair a damaged car key quickly and effectively. They can replace the battery and reprogram your key fob in the event of need.
Broken Key Blade
Key blades can break due to wear and tear. If this occurs, you ought to buy a new one. The issue isn't as serious as you might believe at first. The primary issue is that the blade snapped off the case.
Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is one method to fix the problem. Then, you can make use of pliers or tweezers grasp the damaged end of the key and pull it. If the key is magnetic, you can also try using a magnet to help pull it out. Use a magnet to assist you remove the key, but be careful to not damage the tumbler of the lock.
Call a locksmith immediately in the event that you are unable to remove the broken piece of the key. They're equipped with special tools that permit them to safely remove keys without causing further damage.
You can also use super glue to repair a snapped key. Apply a small amount glue to the edges of the break and press them together. Wait until the glue has dried before inserting the key into the lock. This method isn't very reliable, and you may need to repeat the process several times before it does the trick. In addition the super glue may not be enough to hold the key together. This is more of a temporary solution than a permanent one.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the loop of plastic on your key fob fails it can make the key ineffective. This is a simple fix. As a replacement alternative, you can use wire that is thick or a finishing nail. For each end of the nail or wire make two holes in the plastic loop. Cut the wire or nail to the desired width, and then place a small drop of superglue into each hole. Press the wire or nail into the holes until it closes them and let it dry.
Another option is to purchase an alternative shell from a locksmith that sells them. They can take out the programmable component of your key, move it to the new shell, and cut a new blade for much less than a complete replacement cost.
This is not the best solution, but it will help you get back on the road again if your key broken in half. It's difficult to fix if the key blade is in the ignition, however. You could try using hair clips or needle extractor tool to pull the broken piece of the ignition, however this can be risky if not cautious. The best option is to contact a locksmith with special tools for safely removing damaged keys from the ignition. They can also design a new key with the proper cuts for the ignition of your vehicle and ensure it works perfectly when it is put into the lock.
Broken Master Key
You'll need to try at regaining the key before it becomes completely destroyed. You can make use of tweezers, lubricants, and needle nose pliers to grasp the broken fragment of a key.
To begin, spray the inside of your lock with a lubricant such as graphite powder or WD-40. You can also try the hacksaw blade technique by moving the blade along the side of the broken key, and then grasping a few of its teeth.' If you are successful you will be able to take the broken key out.
Many hardware stores sell a spiral key extraction tool. This tool is a thin flexible rod with spiral threads that can be inserted into the keyway and then bent to the broken portion of the key. Once it is hooked to the serrations, you can turn it in a circular direction and push it against the damaged portion of the key to pull it out.
It's worth trying to remove the master key that is broken before calling an expert locksmith. If you are unable to get rid of the broken piece it's time to call a locksmith. A locksmith can make you a new key that will be programmed with the transponder of your car.