The 10 Most Scariest Things About Repair Car Keys
How to Repair Car Keys
Car keys may seem small and insignificant, but they are vital for the proper operation of your vehicle. Replacing a traditional or a modern transponder key can cost upwards of $200.
There are ways to fix your car key remote repair keys yourself for just a fraction of the cost. This article will go over some of the most common car keys issues and their DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Battery
Cars are equipped with a remote key fob that allows opening the doors and trunk easier than ever before. The battery of this device is susceptible to dying. However, there are a few tricks that can be used to solve this problem in the event of a need.
Check to see 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 button on the key fob straight against the ignition button. If this works, then the battery is probably in good condition and only needs to be changed.
To replace the fob's battery, first pry open the case with an instrument like a screwdriver, or watch-type tool. Be cautious not to apply too much pressure because this could cause the fob to break into two pieces. If the fob doesn't seem to be coming open with ease, try placing your pry tool in several places around the outside of the case.
Open the electronic compartment of your car after you have removed the mechanical key. Insert the new battery and then snap back the shell. If the key fob doesn't work after this, there could be a larger problem with your car's remote key fob repair start system that requires a professional diagnosis. If this is the case, a trusted mechanic should be able help you. If you need help with your vehicle, you can contact roadside assistance.
Broken Key Ring
There are a few steps to do if your key fob doesn't function because the ring is broken. Examine if you can locate the broken piece within the ignition. If it is, you should remove it without damaging the lock on the ignition or door lock. If you have trouble taking it off, call a locksmith for assistance. They have specialized tools that are able 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 plastic frame. You can clean the circuit board using a cotton swab soaked in ruby alcohol. This will remove any corrosion and ensure the contact pads aren't damaged.
Repair a damaged ring using a strong nail or wire to close the hole. Superglue can be used to fix the broken key ring. First, clean the broken rings with a damp cloth and then apply a small amount superglue to each end of the nail or wire. Allow the pieces to dry, and then press them into place. These DIY solutions can seem appealing, but they're really just temporary solutions. For long-term repairs, you'll want to get a professional locksmith. They have the knowledge and tools to fix damaged keys quickly and effectively. They can even replace the battery inside your key fob and modify it if necessary.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades may break due to wear and tear. If this occurs, you must buy a new one. The issue isn't as serious as you believe at first. The main problem is that the metal blade has broken off from the case.
Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is one way to repair car key remote it. You can then make use of pliers or tweezers grab the broken end of the key and pull it. If the key is magnetic, you can also try using a magnetic tool to assist in pulling it out. Use a magnet to help you remove the key, but be cautious to not break the lock tumbler.
If you are unable to get the broken piece from the key, contact an emergency locksmith. They have the right tools to safely remove keys without causing any further damage.
You can also apply super glue to fix a broken key. Apply a small amount glue to the edges of the break and press them together. After that, wait until the glue has dried before you insert your key into the lock. This method isn't extremely reliable, and you may need to repeat the process several times before it works. Plus the super glue might not be enough to hold the key together. This is more of a stopgap measure rather than a permanent solution.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the loop of plastic on your key fob is damaged it can make the key ineffective. Fortunately, this is a fairly easy fix. You can use thick wire or a finishing nail to replace it. Drill two holes in the broken plastic loop for each end of the wire or nail. Cut the wire or nail to the desired width and then place the superglue drop in each hole. Press the wire or nail into the holes until it closes them and let it dry.
A locksmith who sells replacement shells is a different option. They can remove the programmable part of your key, move it to the new shell, and cut an entirely new blade for less than a complete replacement cost.
It's not the best solution, but it will help you get back on the road in case your key split in half. It's difficult to repair if the key blade is in the ignition however. You can try using hair clips, a needle or an extractor tool to remove the damaged piece of the ignition, but this can be risky if not cautious. Contact a locksmith who has special tools to safely remove broken keys from ignitions. You can also get a new key made with appropriate cuts for the ignition of your vehicle.
Broken Master Key
If a key breaks inside the lock and key repair near me, you'll need to try to retrieve it before it gets completely destroyed. You can use tweezers, lubricants, and needle nose pliers where to repair car key remote grab the broken fragment of a key.
To start, spray the inside of your lock with a lubricant such as WD-40 or graphite powder. You may also try the hacksaw blade method which involves carefully sliding the blade down along the edge of the broken key and attaching it to the 'teeth'. If you are able to do this you will be able to pull out the broken key from the lock.
Another tool that is useful is an extractor for keys spiral, that can be found in a variety of hardware stores. It is a thin, flexible bar with spiral threads which can be inserted into the keyway, and then bent to get into the broken section of the key. Once it has caught onto the serrations, you can turn the bar around and pull it against the broken part of the key.
It's worth attempting to remove a broken master key before calling an expert locksmith. If you're not able to remove 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.
