How to Repair Car Keys
Car keys may appear tiny and insignificant, but they are crucial to the functioning of your vehicle. The cost of replacing an old or modern transponder car keys could be as high as $200.
There are methods to repair your car keys at home for less than. This article will address the most common car keys issues as well as their DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Battery
The remote key fobs for keys that come with cars make it simpler than ever before to open the trunk, doors and the tailgate. The battery in this device is prone to dying. There are a few strategies you can use to resolve this issue fast.
First, determine if the car is still in ignition mode. If so, the key fob's battery could be low rather than dead. To test this, press the fob's button against the ignition button on the vehicle. If this works, then the battery is probably fine and needs to be changed.
To replace the fob's battery, start by prying open the case with a screwdriver or watch-type tool. Be careful not to put too much pressure on the fob as this could cause the fob to break into two pieces. If the fob won't open, try using your pry tool more than once around the outside of case.
Open the electronic portion of your vehicle after you have removed the mechanical key. Then, you can insert the replacement battery and then snap the shell together. If your key fob still doesn't work after this, it may be a larger problem with the remote start system in your car. This will require an expert to determine the cause. A trusted mechanic will be capable of helping you if this is the situation. You can also contact roadside assistance to assist with your vehicle in case you need it.
Broken Key Ring
If your key fob isn't working because the ring is broken, there are a few things you might try. Check to see if you can locate the broken piece in the ignition. If it is, you should remove it without damaging the door lock or ignition lock. If you have trouble taking it off, call a locksmith for help. They have special tools to safely remove a damaged key from the ignition.
Another reason that can lead to the car key breaking is corrosion on the circuit board or frame. You can clean the circuit board by using a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol. This will eliminate the corrosion and prevent damage to the contact pads.
If your key isn't starting because the ring broke it, you might be able to fix it by using a thick wire or nail to plug the hole. Superglue can also be used to repair a broken ring. First, clean the damaged rings with a damp cloth and then apply a small amount of superglue to the ends of the nail or wire. Allow keys repair to dry, and then press them together. These DIY solutions can appear appealing, but they're only an interim measure. For long-term repairs, it's recommended to get an experienced locksmith. They have the expertise and tools to fix the broken key quickly and effectively. They can replace the battery and reprogram the key fob, if needed.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades might break due to wear and tear. If this occurs, you must buy a new blade. Fortunately, this issue isn't as bad as it may appear at first. The main problem is that the blade broke off from the case.
Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is a way to fix the problem. Then, you can use pliers, pins, or tweezers to grasp the damaged key and remove it. You may also employ a magnet in the event that the key is magnetic. Be careful not to use a magnet on an ignition key as it could cause the tumbler in the lock to break.
Contact a locksmith immediately if you are unable to remove the broken part of the key. They have special tools to safely extract keys without causing any further damage.
You can also apply super glue to fix a snapped key. Apply a small amount of glue to the edges and press them in. Wait until the glue dries before you insert your key into the lock. This method isn't secure and you may need to repeat the process a few times before it works. Super glue may not hold the key together. So, this is more of a temporary measure rather than a permanent solution.
Broken Plastic Loop
If your key fob's plastic loop is damaged, it can make the key ineffective. It's a fairly simple fix. You can make use of wire or a nail for finishing as a replacement. For each end of the wire or nail make two holes in the loop of plastic. Cut the wire or nail to key width, and place one drop of superglue into each hole. Press the nail or wire into the holes and allow them to dry.
A locksmith who sells replacement shells is another option. They can take the programmable portion of your key, move it to the new shell and cut a new blade for much less than the full replacement cost.
This isn't the most efficient solution, but will get you on the road once more if your key been cut in half. It's difficult to fix when the key blade is in the ignition however. If you are not careful you could employ a hair clip, or a needle to remove the damaged part from the ignition. Call a locksmith with special tools to safely remove damaged keys from ignitions. They can also make you a new key with the correct cuts for your ignition, so it will work perfectly when it is put into the lock.
Broken Master Key
If a key is broken inside the lock, you'll need to try to retrieve it before it's completely destroyed. There are a variety of methods that you can try, such as using lubricants as well as tools such as needle nose pliers and tweezers. These tools can grab a fragment of the broken key and then remove it.
Spray the inside of your lock with WD-40 or graphite powder. You can also try the hacksaw blade method that involves sliding the blade across the face of a damaged key and grasping onto a few of its 'teeth.' If you are successful you will be able to remove the broken key.
Many hardware stores sell the spiral key extraction tool. This tool has a thin flexible rod with spiral threads that can be inserted into the keyway, and later bent to form the broken part of the key. Once it is firmly anchored to the serrations, you can twist the bar around and pull it against the damaged section of the key.
It's worth trying to remove a master key that's broken prior to calling a professional locksmith. If you are unable to get rid of the broken piece then you'll have to call in the professionals. Locksmiths can create you an entirely new key that will be programmed using the transponder in your car.