How to Repair Car Keys
Car keys might seem tiny and insignificant, but they are crucial to the operation of your vehicle. Replacing a traditional or a modern transponder key could cost as much as $200.
There are methods to fix your car keys at home with less than. This article will cover the most frequently encountered car key problems and their DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
The remote key fobs for keys that come with cars make it simpler than ever to open the trunk, doors and the tailgate. The battery inside this device is susceptible to dying. There are a few strategies you can employ to fix this issue fast.
Check to see if your vehicle is still in ignition mode. If it is, the battery of the key fob may simply be low instead of dead. To test this, press the button on the key fob straight against the ignition button. If car key repair cost is successful, the battery is probably in good condition and needs to be replaced.
To replace the battery in the fob, open the case with the screwdriver. Be careful not to press too hard since this could cause the fob to split in two. If the fob isn't opening, try using your pry tool several times around the outside of the case.
Open the electronic portion of your car after you have removed the mechanical key. Install the new battery and snap it back into the shell. If the key fob doesn't work after this, there may be a bigger problem with your car's remote start system that requires a professional diagnostic. A trusted mechanic will be in a position to assist you in this situation. You can also reach out to roadside assistance to assist with your vehicle, if you require it.
Broken Key Ring
If your key fob isn't functioning because the ring is broken, there are a few things you could try. Examine if you can locate the broken part within the ignition. If it's still inside, 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 broken key from the ignition.
A damaged car key could be caused by corrosion of the plastic frame or circuit board. You can clean the circuit board using a cotton swab soaked in ruby alcohol. This will remove any corrosion and ensure that the contact pads aren't damaged.
Repair a damaged ring by using a thick nail or wire to close the hole. Superglue can be used to repair damaged key rings. After cleaning the ring with a wet cloth apply a small amount of superglue on each end of the nail or wire. Let the pieces dry and then press them in place. These DIY solutions might seem appealing, but they're really just temporary solutions. For long-term repairs, it's recommended to hire an expert locksmith. They have the expertise and tools to fix damaged keys quickly and efficiently. They can replace the battery and reprogram the key fob if necessary.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades may break due to wear and tear. If this happens, it's probably time to get a new key. Fortunately, this issue isn't as serious as it may appear at first. The primary issue is that the metal blade broke off from the case.
Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is one way to repair it. Then, you can make use of pliers or tweezers grasp the broken end of the key and pull it. You can also employ a magnet in the event that the key is magnetic. Use a magnet to assist you remove the key, but be careful to not damage the tumbler of the lock.
Contact a locksmith right away when you are unable remove the broken part of the key. They have tools that let them safely remove keys without causing further 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 together. Make sure the glue is dry before inserting the key into the lock. However, this method isn't reliable and you might have to repeat the process a few times before it's successful. Super glue may not hold the key in place. This is more of a temporary fix than a permanent one.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the plastic loop is damaged it can render the key ineffective. This is a relatively easy fix. As a replacement alternative, you can opt for 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 key width, and then place one drop of superglue in each hole. Put the nail or wire into the holes to seal them and let it dry.
Another option is to get a replacement shell from a locksmith who sells them. They can take out the programmable portion of your key, then transfer it to the new shell, and cut an entirely new blade for less than a complete replacement cost.
This isn't the most efficient solution, but it will get you on the road once more if your key been cut in half. It's difficult to fix if the key blade is inside the ignition, however. If you're not careful you can employ a hair clip, or a needle to take the broken part from the ignition. The best option is to contact a locksmith with special tools to safely remove broken keys from the ignition. You can also get a new key made with the correct cuts for the ignition of your vehicle.
Broken Master Key
If a key breaks inside the lock, you'll have to attempt to retrieve it before it gets completely destroyed. There are a variety of methods that you can try, such as using lubricants, tools, needle nose pliers or tweezers to take a small piece of the damaged key and remove it.
Spray the inside of the lock with WD-40 or graphite powder. You can also employ the hacksaw blade method that involves moving the blade along the sides of a damaged key and grabbing onto some of its teeth. If you're successful, you should be in a position to cut the damaged key.
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 put into the keyway, and then bent to dig into the broken section of the key. Once it is firmly anchored to the serrations, you can turn the bar in a circle and pull it against the damaged section of the key.
Before calling a locksmith, try to get rid of the broken master key. If you're unable to take the broken piece off then you'll have to contact a professional locksmith. Locksmiths can create you a new key that can be programmed using your car transponder.