How to Repair Car Keys
The car keys are tiny and might not seem to be important, but they're vital for the operation of your vehicle. The cost of replacing an old or contemporary transponder car key can range from $200 to upwards of $200.
There are many ways to repair your car keys yourself for a fraction of the price. This article will cover some of the most frequent car key problems and their DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Battery
Cars are equipped with a remote key fob which makes opening doors and trunk easier than ever before. The battery in this device is susceptible to dying. There are some tricks you can use to solve this issue quickly.
First, make sure that the car is in ignition mode. If so the battery on the key fob may be low, but not dead. To test, press the button on the fob against the ignition button on the vehicle. If it works, then the battery is probably working fine and requires to be replaced.
To replace the battery within the fob, you need to the case open using a screwdriver. Don't apply too much force as this could cause the fob's case split. If the fob isn't coming open with ease, try placing your pry tool in several places on the outside of the case.
Open the electronic part of your car once you have removed the mechanical key. Insert the new battery and snap it back into the shell. If your key fob does not work after this, it may be due to a larger issue with the remote start system of your car. This requires a professional to diagnose. If this is the case, a trusted mechanic should be able to assist you. If you need help with your car and you need help, you can call roadside assistance.
Broken Key Ring
If your key fob isn't working because the ring is broken, there are a few options you could try. Check to see if you can find the broken piece inside the ignition. If it is, remove it without damaging the ignition lock or door lock. Call a locksmith if you are having trouble getting rid of the key. They have special tools that allow you to safely remove keys that are damaged from the ignition.
A broken car key could be caused by corrosion of the plastic frame or circuit board. You can clean the circuit board by using a cotton swab with rubbing alcohol. This will eliminate the corrosion and stop damage to the contact pads.
If your key isn't working because the ring is broken it, you might be able to repair it by using a thick wire or nail to seal the hole. Superglue can also be used to repair a damaged ring. First, clean the damaged ring with a damp towel and then apply a small amount of superglue to each end of the wire or nail. Press the pieces together and allow them to dry before using your car. These DIY solutions might seem appealing, however they are only a temporary measure. For long-term repairs, it's best to get an expert locksmith. They have the expertise and tools to repair the broken key quickly and efficiently. They can even replace the battery inside your 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 probably time to buy a new key. This problem isn't nearly as serious as you think at first glance. The primary issue is that the blade snapped off the case.
One method to fix this is spraying the key hole with a oil-based lubricant. Then you can use pliers, pins, or tweezers to grab the broken end of the key and pull it out. You may also use a magnet if the key is magnetic. Just be careful not to use a magnet on an ignition key since it could cause the lock tumbler to break.
If you are unable to get the broken piece of the key, call an emergency locksmith. 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 glue to the edges of the crack and press them together. Then, wait until the glue has dried before you insert your key into the lock. car key remote repair near me isn't extremely secure, and you could have to repeat it several times before it is successful. Super glue may not be able to hold the key together. This is more of a temporary solution than a permanent one.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the loop of plastic on your key fob breaks it could make the key useless. This is a simple fix. To replace it alternative, you can use wire that is thick or a finishing nail. Drill two holes in the plastic loop that is broken for each end of the nail or wire. Cut the wire or nail to key width and put a drop of superglue in each hole. Then, press the wire or nail into the holes and let them dry.
Another option is to get the replacement shell from a locksmith that sells them. They can transfer the programmable section of your key to the new shell and cut an entirely new blade at less than the cost.
It's not the most ideal solution, but it will bring you back on the road if your key broke in half. It's not easy to fix when the blade of the key is in the ignition, however. If you're not cautious you could use a hair clip or needle to remove the broken part from the ignition. The best solution is to call an expert locksmith who has tools for safely removing broken keys from the ignition. You can also request an entirely new key made using appropriate cuts for the ignition of your car.
Broken Master Key
You'll have to attempt at regaining the key before it becomes completely destroyed. There are a variety of methods that you can try, such as using lubricants and tools like needle nose pliers or tweezers to pick up a piece of the broken 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 along the side of the broken key and attaching it to the 'teeth'. If you are able to do this, you will be able to remove the broken key from the lock.
Another helpful tool is an extractor for keys spiral, that can be found in many hardware stores. This has a thin flexible bar with spiral threads that can be inserted into the keyway, and then bent to get into the broken part of the key. Once it has gotten caught on the serrations, you can twist the bar into a circle and then pull it up against the broken part of the key.
It's worth trying to get rid of a broken master key before calling a professional locksmith. If you're not able to remove the broken piece then you'll have to contact a professional locksmith. A locksmith can make you a new key that can be programmed with the transponder of your car.