The 10 Most Scariest Things About Repair Car Keys
How to Repair Car Keys
Car keys may appear small and insignificant, but they are vital to the operation of your vehicle key repairs. Replacing an old key or a transponder key that is modern can cost upwards of $200.
However, there are ways to repair your car keys at home with a fraction of the cost. This article will cover the most frequent car keys issues as well as their DIY fixes.
Dead Key Fob Battery
The remote key fobs for keys that come with cars make it easier than ever to open the trunk, doors and tailgate. The battery of this device is prone to dying. There are a few tricks you can use to solve this problem quickly.
Check to see if your vehicle is still in ignition mode. If it is the battery on the key fob might be low instead of dead. To test this, push the button on the key fob up against the vehicle's ignition button. If this works, then the battery is probably fine and only has to be replaced.
To replace the battery inside the fob, pry open the case using the screwdriver. Be careful not to press too hard because this could cause the fob to split apart. If the fob doesn't seem to be coming open easily, try wedge your pry tool in multiple places around the outside of the case.
After the fob has been opened, remove the mechanical key and open the electronic portion of the car. Insert the new battery and snap back the shell. If your key fob still isn't working after this, it could be that there is an issue with the remote start system of your car. This requires an expert to identify. If this is the case, a reputable 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
There are a few steps that you can do if your key fob doesn't work because the ring is broken. First, you should check to see if the damaged piece is still in the ignition. If it's still inside it, remove it without damaging the ignition lock or the door lock. If you're having difficulty getting it out, contact a locksmith for help. They have special tools that are able to safely remove keys repair near me that are damaged from the ignition.
A broken car key can be caused by corrosion on the plastic frame or circuit board. Clean the circuit board using cotton swab. This will remove any corrosion and ensure that the contact pads don't get damaged.
If your key isn't starting because the ring is broken it, you might be able to fix it using a sturdy wire or nail to close the hole. Superglue can be used to repair car key fob a broken key ring. After cleaning the ring using a damp cloth apply a small amount of superglue on each end of the nail or wire. Let the pieces dry and then press them in place. These DIY solutions can look appealing, but they're really just a stopgap measure. For long-term repairs, it's best to get an experienced locksmith. They have the knowledge and tools to repair car keys the broken key quickly and efficiently. They can replace the battery and reprogram your key fob, if needed.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades may break due to wear and tear. If this occurs, you must purchase a new one. This problem isn't nearly as serious as you think at first. The most significant issue is that the metal blade snapped off the case.
One solution is spraying the key hole with a fluid that lubricates the key hole. Then, you can employ pliers or tweezers grasp the damaged end of the key and pull it. You may also employ a magnet in the event that the key is magnetic. Use a magnet to assist you remove the key, but be careful to not sever the lock tumbler.
If you are unable to take the broken piece of the key, contact an expert locksmith immediately. They're equipped with special tools that let them safely remove keys without causing further damage.
You can also try super glue to repair a snapped key. Apply a small amount of glue to the edges of the crack and press them together. Wait until the glue is dry before inserting the key into the lock. This method is not very secure, and you could have to repeat it a few times before it does the trick. Super glue might not be able to hold the key in place. Therefore, this is more of a temporary measure than a permanent solution.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the plastic loop breaks off it can render the key useless. This is a simple fix. To replace it alternative, you can opt for wire that is thick or a finishing nail. For each end of the wire or nail, drill two holes into the loop of plastic. Cut the wire or nail into a key width, and then place a small drop of superglue in each hole. Apply the nail or wire into the holes and let them dry.
A locksmith who sells replacement shells is another option. They can transfer the programmable section of your key into the new shell and cut an entirely new blade at a fraction of the cost.
This is not the best solution, but will allow you to travel again if your key been cut in half. However, it can be difficult to repair the key blade if it's in the ignition. You could try using hair clips or needle extractor tool to remove the damaged piece of the ignition, but it's risky if not cautious. Contact a locksmith who has special tools to safely remove broken keys from ignitions. You can also have a new key that is made using appropriate cuts for the ignition of your vehicle.
Broken Master Key
If a key breaks inside the lock, you'll need to attempt to retrieve it before it gets 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 grab a fragment of the broken key and pull it out.
To start, spray the inside of your lock with a lubricant such as WD-40 or graphite powder. You can also try the hacksaw blade method, which involves gently moving the blade down the side of the broken key and hooking onto some of the 'teeth' - if you are able to do this you should be able remove the broken key from the lock.
Many hardware stores sell a spiral key extraction tool. This tool is a thin rod that is flexible and has spiral threads that can be inserted into the keyway, and then bent into the broken part of the key. Once it has been snagged onto the serrations, you can twist it in a circular motion and push it against the damaged part of the key to take it out.
It's worth attempting to remove a master key that's broken prior to calling a professional locksmith. If you can't get an item out, it's time to call the big guns to get a locksmith to cut you a new key and reprogram it using your car key repair service's transponder.