How to Repair Car Keys
The car keys are small and may not be considered important, but they're essential to the functioning of your car. Replacing an old key or a modern transponder key could cost as much as $200.
There are methods to fix your car keys at home for only a fraction of the cost. This article will cover some of the most frequent car key problems and the DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Battery
Cars come with remote key fobs which makes opening doors, trunk and tailgate easier than ever before. The battery inside this device is susceptible to dying. Fortunately, there are a few tricks you can employ to solve this problem in the event of a need.
First, check if the car is in ignition mode. If so the battery on the key fob could be low rather than dead. To test, press the fob's button against the ignition button on the vehicle. If this is successful, the battery is likely fine and only needs to be replaced.
To replace the fob's battery, start by prying the case off using the help of a screwdriver or watch-type device. Be cautious not to press too hard because this could cause the fob's to split apart. If the fob isn't coming open with ease, try placing your pry tool in several places around the outside of the case.
Open the electronic compartment of your vehicle after you have removed the mechanical key. Then, you can insert the replacement battery and then snap the shell back together. If the key fob does not work after this, it could be a larger problem 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 help you. You can also call roadside assistance for assistance with your vehicle in case you need it.
Broken Key Ring
There are a few options you can do in the event that your key fob won't work because the ring is broken. Examine if you can locate the broken piece within the ignition. If it is, remove it without damaging the lock on the ignition or door lock. If you're having difficulty removing it, call an expert locksmith. They have tools that can safely remove a damaged key from the ignition.
A damaged car key could be caused by corrosion on the plastic frame or circuit board. You can clean the circuit board using a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol. This will eliminate the corrosion and protect to the contact pads.
You can fix a broken rings by using a thick wire or nail to close the hole. Superglue can also be used to repair a broken ring. After cleaning key fob repairs using a damp cloth, apply a small amount superglue to each end of the wire or nail. Allow the pieces to dry, and then press them together. These DIY solutions may sound appealing, but they are only a temporary measure. It's best to hire an experienced locksmith for long-term repairs. They have the tools and knowledge to fix a broken car key quickly and efficiently. They can even replace the battery in your key fob, and modify it if necessary.
Broken Key Blade
Key blades can break due to wear and tear. If this happens, it's probably time to get a new key. The issue isn't as serious as you think at first glance. The main problem is that the blade has separated from the case.
One method to fix this is to spray the key hole with a oil-based lubricant. Then you can use pliers, tweezers, or a pin to grab the end of the broken key and take it out. You can also employ a magnet in the event that the key is magnetic. Be careful not to use a magnet on an ignition key because it could cause the lock tumbler to break.
If you're not able to remove the broken piece of the key, contact a locksmith right away. They have special tools that allow them to safely remove keys without causing further damage.
You can also apply super glue to fix a snapped key. Apply a small amount of the glue to the edges and press them together. Then, wait until the glue dries before inserting your key into the lock. This method isn't reliable and you may have to repeat the process multiple times before it works. Additionally the super glue may not be enough to hold the key together. This is more of a temporary solution rather than an option that is permanent.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the loop of plastic on your key fob is damaged it could render the key ineffective. It's an easy fix. You can use wire or a finishing nail to replace it. For each end of the nail or wire make two holes in the plastic loop. Cut the nail or wire to the desired width and then place a drop of superglue in each hole. Apply the nail or wire into the holes and allow them to dry.
A locksmith who sells replacement shells is a different option. They can transfer the programmable part of your key to the new shell, and then cut new blades for only a fraction of the price.
This is not the best solution, but it will help you get back on the road again if your key has split in half. It can be difficult to repair the blade of the key if it's in the ignition. If you're not careful you can use a hair clip or needle to remove the broken part from the ignition. Get a locksmith equipped with special tools to safely remove broken keys from ignitions. You can also have an entirely new key made using appropriate cuts for the ignition of your vehicle.
Broken Master Key
You'll need to try at regaining the key before it becomes completely destroyed. You can make use of lubricants, tweezers, and needle nose pliers to grab the fragments of a damaged key.
Spray the inside of the lock with WD-40 or a graphite powder. You could also try the hacksaw method, which involves gently sliding the blade down along the edge of the broken key and hooking onto some of the 'teeth'. If you succeed in doing this, you should be able take the broken key from the lock.
Another helpful tool is a spiral key extractor, that is available in a variety of hardware stores. It's a thin and flexible bar with spiral threads, which can be inserted into the keyway, and then bent to reach into the broken part of the key. Once it is hooked to the serrations, you can turn it in a circular motion and press it against the broken section of the key to take it out.
It's worth trying to remove a master key that's broken prior to calling a professional locksmith. If you're unable to get rid of the broken piece then you'll have to call a locksmith. A locksmith can give you a new key that can be programmed using the transponder of your car.