How to Repair Car Keys
Car keys may appear small and insignificant, but they are vital for the proper operation of your vehicle. Replacing a traditional key or a transponder one can cost upwards of $200.
However, there are ways to fix your car keys at home for less than. This article will discuss the most frequent car keys problems and their DIY fixes.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
The remote key fobs for keys that come with cars make it simpler than ever to open the trunk, doors and the tailgate. However, the battery in the device can fail. However, there are a few tricks you can employ to resolve this issue in a pinch.
First, make sure that the car is still in ignition mode. If it is, the battery of the key fob may simply be low instead of dead. To test this, press the button on the fob against the ignition button on the vehicle. If it works, the battery is probably fine and only needs to be changed.
To replace the battery inside the fob, open the case with an screwdriver. Be careful not to apply too much force, as this may cause the fob's casing to split. If the fob isn't opening open easily, try wedge your pry tool in more than one place on the outside of the case.
Open the electronic portion of your car once you have removed the mechanical key. Insert the new battery and snap back the shell. If the key fob won't work after this procedure, there could be a more serious issue with your car's remote start system that requires a professional diagnostic. A reputable mechanic will be able help you in this situation. You can also contact roadside assistance for help with your vehicle in case you need it.
Broken Key Ring
There are a few things to do when your key fob does not work because the ring has been broken. First, you should check to see if your broken piece is still in the ignition. If it is, you should remove it without damaging the door lock or ignition lock. Call what google did to me if you are having difficulty removing the key. They have specialized tools that are able to safely remove the damaged key from the ignition.
Another reason for a broken car key is corrosion on the circuit board or plastic frame. You can clean the circuit board by using a cotton swab soaked in ruby alcohol. This will remove any corrosion and ensure the contact pads don't become damaged.
If your key isn't working because of a broken ring or was damaged, you might be able fix it by using a thick wire or nail to plug the hole. Superglue can be used to fix damaged key rings. After cleaning the ring with a moist cloth apply a small amount of superglue to the ends of the nail or wire. Allow the pieces to dry, and then press them together. These DIY solutions may seem appealing, however they are only a temporary measure. It is recommended to hire an expert locksmith for repairs that last. They have the expertise and tools to repair damaged keys quickly and effectively. They can replace the battery and reprogram your key fob, if needed.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades might break due to wear and tear. If this happens, it's probably time to purchase a new key. This problem isn't nearly as serious as you believe at first. The issue is that the metal blade has broken off from the case.
One solution is spraying the key hole with fluid that lubricates the key hole. Then, you can use pliers tweezers, or a pin to grasp the damaged key and take it out. If the key is magnetic, you can also try using a magnetic tool to pull it out. Be cautious not to use a magnetic tool on an ignition key because it could cause the lock tumbler to break.
Call a locksmith immediately if you are unable to remove the broken piece of the key. They have special tools to safely remove keys without causing further damage.
Super glue can be used to fix an open lock that has snapped. Apply a small amount glue to the edges of the crack and press them together. Then, wait until the glue has dried before inserting your 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 may not hold the key in place. Therefore, this is more of a stopgap measure rather than an option that can last.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the plastic loop breaks off it can render the key useless. This is a relatively easy fix. To replace it alternative, you can use wire that is thick or a finishing nail. For each end of the wire or nail you need to drill two holes into the loop of plastic. Cut the wire or nail to the desired width, and then place a small drop of superglue in each hole. Put the nail or wire into the holes to close them and let it dry.
A locksmith who sells replacement shells is an alternative option. They can transfer the programmable part of your key into the new shell, and then cut a brand new blade for a fraction of the cost.
This is not the best solution, but will get you on the road once more if your key split in half. It's difficult to repair when the key blade is in the ignition, however. You could try using a hair clip or needle extractor tool to remove the damaged part out of the ignition, however this can be risky if not cautious. The best choice is to contact a locksmith who has special tools to safely remove broken keys from the ignition. You can also request a new key made with the proper cuts to fit the ignition of your car.
Broken Master Key
If a key breaks inside the lock, you'll have to attempt to retrieve it before it is completely destroyed. You can use the tweezers, lubricants and needle nose pliers to grasp the broken fragment of a key.
Spray the inside of the lock with WD-40 or graphite powder. You may also try the hacksaw method, that involves carefully sliding the blade along the side of the broken key and connecting to a few of the 'teeth'. If you succeed in doing this, you should be able to take the broken key from the lock.
Many hardware stores offer the spiral key extraction tool. This tool is a thin rod that is flexible and has spiral threads that can be placed in the keyway and then bent to form the broken part of the key. Once it has gotten caught on the serrations, you can twist the bar in a circle and then pull it against the broken section of the key.
Before contacting a locksmith, try to get rid of the broken master key before calling a locksmith. If you can't get a piece out, it's time to call in the big guns - have a locksmith make you a brand new key and reprogram it with your car's transponder.