How to Repair Car Keys
Car keys may seem tiny and insignificant, but they are vital to the operation of your vehicle. Replacing an old key or a transponder key that is modern can cost upwards of $200.
There are methods to repair your car keys at home for less than. This article will cover the most common car keys issues as well as the DIY solutions to fix them.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
The remote key fobs that come with cars make it easier than ever before to open the trunk, doors and the tailgate. The battery in this device is susceptible to dying. There are a few strategies you can use to solve this problem quickly.
Examine if your vehicle is still in ignition mode. If it is, the key fob's battery could be low rather than dead. To test this, press the button on the key fob up against the vehicle's ignition button. If it works, the battery is likely fine and needs to be changed.
To replace the battery in the fob, you need to open the case using a screwdriver. Be careful not to apply too much pressure since this could cause the fob's to split in two. If the fob isn't opening open with ease, try placing your pry tool into more than one place on the outside of the case.
Open the electronic part of your vehicle after you have removed the mechanical key. Install the new battery and snap back the shell. If the key fob won't work after this procedure, there could be a bigger problem with the remote start system that requires a professional diagnostic. A reputable mechanic will be in a position to assist you in this situation. You can also contact roadside assistance for assistance with your vehicle in case you need it.
Broken Key Ring
There are a few options to do if your key fob doesn't work because the ring is broken. Look to see if can locate the broken part inside the ignition. If it is, you should remove it without damaging the door lock or ignition lock. Call a locksmith if you have difficulty taking the key off. They have special tools that can safely remove the damaged key from the ignition.
Another reason that can lead to the car key breaking is corrosion on the circuit board or plastic frame. You can clean the circuit board using a cotton swab and ruby alcohol. This will remove any corrosion and ensure the contact pads don't become damaged.
If your key isn't working because of a broken ring, you may be able fix it with a strong wire or nail to close the hole. Superglue can be used to repair the broken key ring. After cleaning the ring using a damp cloth apply a small amount of superglue on each end of the nail or wire. Allow the pieces to dry, and then press them together. These DIY solutions might appear appealing, but they're just temporary solutions. It's best to hire an expert locksmith for repairs that last. They have the expertise and tools to fix a broken key quickly and effectively. They can even replace the battery in the key fob and reprogram it if needed.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades can break due to a lot of wear and tear. If this occurs, you ought to buy a new blade. Fortunately, this issue isn't as bad as it may appear at first. The most significant issue is that the metal blade broke off from the case.
Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is a solution to fix the problem. Then, you can use pliers, tweezers, or a pin to grab the damaged key and remove 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 since it could cause the tumbler of the lock to break.
If you're not able to remove the broken piece of the key, contact an emergency locksmith. They have the right tools to safely extract keys without causing further damage.
Super glue can be used to fix an open lock that has snapped. Apply a small amount of glue to the edges of the crack and press them together. Wait until the glue has dried before inserting the key into the lock. However, this method isn't reliable and you may have to repeat the process multiple times before it's successful. Super glue may not hold the key together. This is more of a temporary fix than an option that is permanent.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the plastic loop on your key fob fails, it can cause the key to become useless. It's a fairly simple fix. You can use wire or a finishing nail to replace it. For key repair car of the nail or wire, drill two holes into the plastic loop. Cut the nail or wire to the desired width and then put a drop of superglue in each hole. Press the nail or wire into the holes and allow them to dry.
A locksmith who sells replacement shells is a different option. They can take out the programmable component of your key, transfer it to the new shell, and cut an entirely new blade for less than a full replacement cost.
This isn't the best option, but it can allow you to travel again if your key broken in half. It's not easy to fix when the key blade is inside the ignition, however. You could try using hair clips or a needle extractor tool to remove the damaged piece of the ignition, however it's risky if not cautious. Call a locksmith with special tools to safely remove damaged keys from ignitions. You can also have a new key that is made using the proper cuts to fit the ignition of your vehicle.
Broken Master Key
You'll have to attempt to retrieve the key before it's completely destroyed. You can make use of lubricants, tweezers, and needle nose pliers to grab the broken fragment of a key.
Spray the inside of the lock with WD-40 or graphite powder. You could also try the hacksaw blade method which involves carefully sliding the blade along the side of the broken key and hooking onto some of the 'teeth' - if you succeed in doing this you should be able take the broken key from the lock.
Another tool that is useful is a spiral key extractor, that can be found in many hardware stores. This tool has a thin flexible rod with spiral threads that can be inserted into the keyway, and then bent to form the broken part of the key. Once it has been snagged onto the serrations, you can twist it in a circular motion and push it against the damaged part of the key to pull it out.
It's worth trying to remove a broken master key before calling an expert locksmith. If you are unable to get an item out, you need to call in the big guns to get a locksmith to cut you a new key and reprogram it using your car's transponder.