A Productive Rant Concerning Repair Car Keys
How to Repair Car Keys
The car keys aren't big and may not be considered important, but they're vital to the functioning of your car. The cost of replacing a traditional or modern transponder car key can range from $200 to upwards of $200.
There are methods to fix your car keys at home for less than. repair key will discuss the most frequently encountered car keys issues as well as their DIY fixes.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
The remote key fobs for keys that come with cars make it easier than ever before to open the trunk, doors and tailgate. The battery inside the device is prone to dying. However, there are some tricks you can employ to fix this issue in an emergency.
Examine if your vehicle is in ignition mode. If it is, the battery on the key fob could simply be low instead of dead. To test this, press the fob's button against the ignition button of the vehicle. If this works, the battery is probably fine and has to be replaced.
To replace the fob's battery, start by prying the case open using the help of a screwdriver or watch-type device. Be careful not to press too hard because this could cause the fob to break in two. If the fob doesn't seem to be coming open with ease, try placing your pry tool in more than one place around the outside of the case.
Open the electronic part of your vehicle after you have removed the mechanical key. Then, you can insert the replacement battery and then snap the shell together. If the key fob isn't working after this, it could be that there is an problem with the remote starting system of your vehicle. This requires an expert to identify. A trusted mechanic will be able help you if this is the situation. If you require assistance with your vehicle, you can contact roadside assistance.
Broken Key Ring
There are a few steps to do when your key fob does not work because the ring is broken. First, you must check to see if the broken piece is still in the ignition. If it is, remove it without damaging the ignition lock or door lock. Contact a locksmith if are having difficulty taking the key off. They have specialized tools that are able to safely remove keys that are damaged from the ignition.
A broken car key could also be the result of corrosion of the plastic frame or circuit board. You can clean the circuit board using a cotton swab with ruby alcohol. This will remove corrosion and ensure the contact pads aren't damaged.
You can fix a broken rings by using a thick nail or wire to close the hole. Superglue can be used to fix a broken key ring. First, clean the broken rings with a damp cloth and then apply a small amount of superglue on each end of the nail or wire. Then, press the pieces together and let them dry before using your car. These DIY solutions can look appealing, but they're only temporary solutions. For long-term repairs, it's best to hire a professional locksmith. They have the tools and expertise to repair a damaged car key quickly and efficiently. They can even replace the battery on your key fob, and reprogram it if needed.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades break because of a lot wear and tear. If this happens, it's probably time to buy a new key. The issue isn't as serious as you might believe at first. The primary problem is that the blade has separated from the case.
One solution is spraying the key hole with a lubricant. Then, you can use pliers or tweezers to grasp the damaged end of the key and pull it. If the key is magnetic, you could also use a magnet to assist in pulling it out. Be careful not to use a magnet on an ignition key because it could cause the tumbler of 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 damage.
You can also use super glue to repair a snapped key. Apply a small amount to the edges and press them together. Then, wait until the glue has dried before you insert your key into the lock. But this method isn't very reliable and you might have repeat the process several times before it's successful. Plus 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 your key fob's plastic loop is damaged it could render the key ineffective. Fortunately, this is an easy fix. As a replacement alternative, you can use wire that is thick or a finishing nail. Drill two holes in the damaged loop of plastic at each end of the wire or nail. Cut the wire or nail into a key width, and place a small 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 an alternative option. They can transfer the programmable portion of your key into the new shell, and cut a brand new blade for less than the cost.
It's not the most ideal solution, but it will bring you back on the road in case your key broke in half. It can be difficult to fix when the blade of the key is in the ignition, however. If you're not careful you could make use of a hair clip or needle to remove the damaged part from the ignition. Contact a locksmith who has special tools to safely remove damaged keys from ignitions. They can also create new keys with the correct cuts for the ignition of your vehicle, so it will work perfectly when it is put into the lock.
Broken Master Key
You'll have to attempt to retrieve the key before it's completely destroyed. There are a few techniques you can use, including using lubricants as well as tools such as needle nose pliers and tweezers. These tools can take a small piece of the key that has been broken and pull it out.
Spray the inside of the lock with WD-40 or graphite powder. You can also try the hacksaw blade technique that involves sliding the blade along the side of a broken key and then grasping a few of its 'teeth. If you're successful, you should be in a position to cut the damaged key.
Many hardware stores carry tools for key extraction that spiral. This tool has a thin rod with spiral threads that can be inserted in the keyway, and then bent to the broken portion of the key. Once it has gotten caught on the serrations, you can twist the bar around and pull it against the broken section of the key.
It's worth trying to remove the master key that is broken before calling an expert locksmith. If you're unable to pull a piece out, you need to call the big guns to get a locksmith to cut you a new key and reprogram it with the transponder of your car.