How to Repair Car Keys
The car keys aren't big and may not be considered important, but they're essential for the proper operation of your vehicle. Replacing an old key or a modern transponder key could cost as much as $200.
There are many ways to repair your car keys yourself at just a fraction of the cost. This article will go over some of the most frequent car key problems and the DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Battery
The remote key fobs that come with cars make it simpler than ever before to open the trunk, doors and tailgate. her latest blog of this device is susceptible to dying. There are some tricks you can use to solve this problem quickly.
Check to see if the vehicle is still in ignition mode. If so the battery on the key fob might be low instead of dead. To test this, press the button on the key fob towards the ignition button. If this is successful, the battery is probably fine and only needs to be replaced.
To replace the battery within the fob, pry open the case with an screwdriver. Don't apply too much force, as this may cause the fob's case to split. If the fob isn't opening, try using your pry tool more than once around the outside of the case.
Open the electronic part of your vehicle after you have removed the mechanical key. Install the new battery and snap it back into the shell. If the key fob isn't working after this, it may be that there is a larger 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 help 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 in the event that your key fob won't work because the ring is broken. Check to see if you can find the broken piece inside the ignition. If it is, remove it without damaging the ignition lock or door lock. Contact car key repair if are having trouble taking the key off. They have the right tools to safely remove a damaged or broken key from the ignition.
Another reason that can lead to broken car keys is the corrosion of the circuit board or plastic frame. It is possible to clean the circuit board using cotton swab. This will remove the corrosion and prevent damage to the contact pads.
Repair a damaged rings by using a thick wire or nail to seal the hole. Superglue can also be used to fix a broken ring. After cleaning the ring using a damp cloth, apply a small amount superglue to the ends of the wire or nail. Then, press the pieces together and let them dry prior to using your vehicle. These DIY solutions might seem appealing, but they are only temporary solutions. For long-term repairs, it's recommended to get an expert locksmith. They have the expertise and tools to repair the broken key quickly and efficiently. They can even replace the battery in your key fob, and reprogram it if needed.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades might break due to wear and tear. If this happens, it's time to purchase a new key. Fortunately, this issue isn't as bad as it appears at first glance. The issue is that the metal blade has broken off from the case.
One method to fix this is spraying the key hole with a oil-based lubricant. Then, you can use pliers pins, or tweezers to grasp the broken end of the key and pull it out. If the key is magnetic, you could also use a magnet to help pull it out. Use a magnet to assist you remove the key, but be careful to not damage the tumbler of the lock.
If you're not able to get the broken piece of key, call a locksmith right away. They have tools that allow them to safely remove keys without causing damage.
Super glue can be used to fix a snapped lock. Apply a small amount of the glue to the edges and press them in. Make sure the glue is dry before inserting the key into the lock. But this method isn't very secure and you may need to repeat the process a few times before it's successful. Super glue may not hold the key together. So, this is more of a temporary measure than an option that can last.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the plastic loop is damaged, it can make the key useless. Luckily, this is an easy fix. To replace it alternative, you can use an extremely thick wire or a finishing nail. For each end of the wire or nail make two holes in the plastic loop. Cut the wire or nail to the desired width, and then place tiny drops of superglue in each hole. Then, press the wire or nail into the holes to seal them, and then let it dry.
A locksmith who sells replacement shells is a different option. car key fob repair can transfer the programmable part of your key into the new shell, and cut new blades for only a fraction of the price.
It's not the best solution, but it can help you get back on the road in case your key snapped in half. However, it could be difficult to repair the key blade if it's in the ignition. If you're not careful, you can employ a hair clip, or needle to remove the damaged part from the ignition. The best choice is to call a locksmith who has special tools for safely removing damaged keys from the ignition. They can also design a new key with the proper cuts for the ignition of your vehicle to ensure that it functions properly when it is inserted into the lock.
Broken Master Key
If a key breaks inside the lock, you'll have to attempt to retrieve it before it's completely destroyed. You can use the tweezers, lubricants and needle nose pliers to grasp the fragments of a damaged key.
To start, spray the inside of your lock with a lubricant, such as WD-40 or graphite powder. You can also employ the hacksaw blade technique by sliding the blade across the face of a broken key and grabbing onto some of its 'teeth.' If you are successful, you should be able to remove the broken key.
Another tool that is useful is a spiral key extractor which you can find in many hardware stores. It is a thin rod that is flexible and has spiral threads that can be inserted in the keyway, and later bent into the broken part of the key. Once it has caught onto the serrations, you can twist the bar into a circle and pull it against the broken section of the key.
It's worth trying to get rid of a master key that's broken prior to calling an expert locksmith. If you're unable to pull a piece out, you need to call the big guns to let a locksmith cut you a brand new key and reprogram it using your car's transponder.