How to Repair Car Keys
Car keys may appear small and insignificant, but they are crucial for the proper operation of your vehicle. The cost of replacing the traditional or modern transponder car keys can range from $200 to upwards of $200.
There are solutions to fix your car keys yourself for just a fraction of the cost. This article will cover the most common car keys problems and their DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Battery
The remote key fobs for keys that come with cars make it simpler than ever to open the trunk, doors, and tailgate. The battery inside this device is prone to dying. Fortunately, there are a few tricks you can employ to resolve this issue in a pinch.
First, determine if the car is still in ignition mode. If it is, then the battery of the key fob may simply be depleted instead of dead. To test this, press the fob's button against the ignition button on the vehicle. If this works, then the battery is likely fine and needs to be changed.
To replace the fob's battery, start by prying the case off using the help of a screwdriver or watch-type device. Be careful not to apply too much force, as this could cause the fob's case to split. If the fob isn't coming open with ease, try placing your pry tool in several places around the outside of the case.
Once the fob is opened take out the mechanical key and open the electronic part of the car. Then, insert the battery replacement and snap the shell back together. If the key fob does not work after this, it may be that there is a larger problem with the remote starting system of your vehicle. This requires an expert to determine the cause. If this is the case, a trusted mechanic should be able help you. If you need help with your vehicle or vehicle, you can get roadside assistance.
Broken Key Ring
If your key fob won't work because the ring has broken there are a few things you could try. Examine 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 are having trouble removing it, call a locksmith for help. They have special tools to safely remove a broken key from the ignition.
what google did to me of broken car keys is the corrosion of the circuit board or plastic frame. Clean the circuit board using cotton swab. This will remove the corrosion and stop damage to the contact pads.
You can fix a broken ring using a strong wire or nail to seal the hole. Superglue can be used to fix the broken key ring. After cleaning the ring with a wet cloth, apply a small amount superglue to the ends of the nail or wire. Allow the pieces to dry, and then press them together. These DIY solutions may sound appealing, but they are only a temporary solution. For long-term repairs, it's recommended to work with an expert locksmith. They have the knowledge and tools to fix damaged keys quickly and efficiently. They can even replace the battery on your key fob, and change it's programming if required.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades can break from a lot of wear and tear. If this happens, you should probably purchase a new one. Fortunately, the issue isn't as serious as it appears at first glance. The main problem is that the blade has separated from the case.
One way to fix this is to spray the key hole with a oil-based lubricant. You can then use pliers or tweezers to grasp the damaged end of the key and pull it. You could also use a magnet if the key is magnetic. Just be careful not to use a magnet on an ignition key as it could cause the lock tumbler to break.
Contact a locksmith right away when you are unable remove the broken piece 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 a snapped lock. Apply a small amount to the edges and press them in. Make sure the glue is dry before inserting the key into the lock. This method isn't extremely secure, and you could need to repeat the process several times before it does the trick. Super glue might not be able to hold the key together. Therefore, this is more of a stopgap measure than a permanent solution.
Broken Plastic Loop
If your key fob's plastic loop breaks off it could render the key ineffective. Fortunately, this is an easy fix. You can use wire or a finishing nail as a replacement. For each end of the wire or nail you need to drill two holes into the loop of plastic. Cut the nail or wire to a key width, then place a drop of superglue in each hole. Press the nail or wire into the holes and let them dry.
Another option is to purchase an alternative shell from a locksmith who sells them. They can take out the programmable part of your key, move it to the new shell and cut a new blade for much less than the full replacement cost.
This is not the best option, but it can get you on the road again if your key split in half. However, it can be difficult to repair the blade of the key if it's in the ignition. If you're not careful, you can employ a hair clip, or a needle to remove the broken part from the ignition. Contact a locksmith who has special tools to safely remove damaged keys from ignitions. They can also create new keys that have the proper cuts for your ignition and ensure it works properly when it is inserted into the lock.
Broken Master Key
If a key is broken inside the lock, you'll need to try to retrieve it before it gets completely destroyed. There are several methods you can employ, such as using lubricants and tools like needle nose pliers or tweezers to grab a fragment of the damaged key and remove it.
Spray the inside of the lock with WD-40 or graphite powder. You can also employ hacksaw blades, which involves sliding the blade along the sides of a broken key and grabbing onto some of its teeth.' If you are successful then you should be in a position to remove the broken key.
company website that is useful is an extractor for keys spiral, that can be found in a wide range of hardware stores. It is a thin rod that is flexible and has spiral threads that can be inserted in the keyway, and then bent to form the broken part of the key. Once it has caught onto the serrations you can twist the bar into a circle and then pull it against the broken part of the key.
Before contacting a locksmith, try to get rid of the broken master key. If you can't get the piece out, it's time to call the big guns to have a locksmith make you a brand new key and reprogram it using the transponder of your car.