Repair Car Keys: What's No One Has Discussed

How to Repair Car Keys Car keys may appear small and insignificant, but they are essential to the functioning of your vehicle. Replacing a traditional or a transponder one can cost upwards of $200. There are methods to repair your car keys at home with only a fraction of the cost. This article will cover the most frequently encountered car keys issues as well as their DIY fixes. Dead Key Fob Battery The remote key fobs for keys that come with cars make it easier than ever before to open the trunk, doors, and the tailgate. However, the battery in the device could die. There are a few strategies you can use to resolve this problem quickly. Check to see if your vehicle is still in ignition mode. If it is the battery on the key fob could be low rather than dead. To test this, press the fob's button against the ignition button of the vehicle. If this works, then the battery is probably fine and only needs to be changed. To replace the fob's battery, begin by prying the case off using an instrument like a screwdriver, or watch-type tool. Be careful not to apply too much force, as this could cause the fob's case split. If the fob doesn't seem to be coming open easily, try wedge your pry tool into more than one place around the outside of the case. After the fob has been opened, remove the mechanical key and then open the electronic section of the car. Then insert the replacement battery and then snap the shell together. If the key fob won't work after this procedure, there could be a larger problem with the remote start system that requires a professional diagnosis. If this is the case, a reputable mechanic should be able to assist you. If you require assistance with your vehicle, you can contact roadside assistance. Broken Key Ring If your key fob isn't working because the ring is broken there are a few options you might try. Examine if you can locate the broken part inside the ignition. If it's still in there, remove it without causing damage to the ignition lock or the door lock. If you have trouble taking it off, call a locksmith for assistance. They have tools that can safely remove a damaged key from the ignition. A broken car key can also be the result of corrosion of the plastic frame or circuit board. You can clean the circuit board using a cotton swab and rubbing alcohol. This will remove any corrosion and ensure the contact pads aren't damaged. If your key won't start because the ring broke it, you might be able to fix it with a strong wire or nail to seal the hole. Superglue can also be used to repair a broken ring. After cleaning the ring with a moist cloth Apply a small amount superglue to each end of the wire or nail. Press the pieces together and let them dry prior to using your vehicle. These DIY solutions may sound appealing, however they are only a temporary solution. 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 efficiently. They can even replace the battery in the key fob and modify it if necessary. Broken Key Blade Some key blades might break due to wear and tear. If this happens, it's time to buy a new key. Fortunately, the issue isn't as serious as it appears at first. The main issue is that the metal blade has separated from the case. Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is one solution to fix it. Then, remote car key repair near me can use pliers, pins, or tweezers to grasp the end of the broken key and pull it out. If the key is magnetic, you could also use a magnet to assist in pulling it out. Be careful not to use a magnet on an ignition key since it could cause the lock tumbler to break. Call a locksmith immediately in the event that you are unable to remove the broken part of the key. They're equipped with special tools that permit them to safely remove keys without causing damage. Super glue can be used to fix an open lock that has snapped. Apply a small amount of glue to the edges and press them together. Wait until the glue has dried before inserting the key into the lock. This method is not very reliable, and you may have to repeat it several times before it is successful. Super glue may not hold the key together. Therefore, this is more of a temporary measure than a permanent solution. Broken Plastic Loop If the plastic loop on your key fob breaks it can cause the key to become ineffective. Fortunately, this is an easy fix. As a replacement alternative, you can opt for an extremely thick wire or a finishing nail. For each end of the wire or nail, drill two holes into the plastic loop. Cut the wire or nail to the desired width, then place tiny drops of superglue into each hole. Press the wire or nail into the holes until it closes them, and then let it dry. Another option is to purchase a replacement shell from a locksmith who sells them. They can take out the programmable part of your key, then transfer it to the new shell and cut an entirely new blade for less than the full replacement cost. It's not the most ideal solution, but it can help you get back on the road in case your key snapped in half. However, it can be difficult to repair the key blade if it is in the ignition. You could try using a hair clip, a needle or an extractor tool to pull the broken part out of the ignition, however this is risky if you're not cautious. Contact a locksmith who has special tools to safely remove broken keys from ignitions. You can also have a new key that is made using the correct cuts to fit the ignition of your car. Broken Master Key You'll need to try in vain to recover the key before it is completely destroyed. There are several methods you can employ, such as using lubricants as well as tools such as needle nose pliers and tweezers. These tools can pick up a piece of the damaged key and then remove it. To start, spray the inside of your lock with a lubricant like graphite powder or WD-40. You may also try the hacksaw blade method, that involves carefully sliding the blade down along the side of the broken key and connecting to a few of the 'teeth' – if you are able to do this you should be able take the broken key from the lock. Another useful tool is a spiral key extractor that is available in many hardware stores. This has a thin flexible bar with spiral threads, which can be inserted into the keyway and bent to get into the broken part of the key. Once it has caught onto the serrations, you can twist the bar in a circle and then pull it up against the broken section of the key. Before contacting a locksmith, try to get rid of the broken master key before calling a locksmith. If you're unable to remove the broken piece it's time to call in the professionals. A locksmith can make you an entirely new key that will be programmed with the transponder of your car.