11 Ways To Completely Sabotage Your Repair Car Keys
How to Repair Car Keys
Car keys may seem tiny and insignificant, but they are essential to the operation of your vehicle. Replacing an old key or a modern transponder key can cost up to $200.
There are solutions to fix your car keys yourself at just a fraction of the cost. This article will discuss the most common car keys issues and the DIY solutions to fix them.
Dead Key Fob Battery
The remote key fobs for keys that come with cars make it simpler than ever before to open the trunk, doors, and the tailgate. The battery of this device is susceptible to dying. There are a few tricks you can use to solve this issue fast.
First, determine if the car is still in ignition mode. If so, the key fob's battery may be low, but not dead. To test this, press the button on the key fob towards the ignition button. If this is successful, the battery is likely fine and will only need to be replaced.
To replace the battery within the fob, open the case using an screwdriver. Be cautious not to press too hard as this could cause the fob to break apart. If the fob won't open 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. Then, you can insert the replacement battery and then snap the shell back together. If the key fob isn't working after this, there could be a larger problem with your car's remote start system that requires a professional diagnosis. A reputable mechanic will capable of helping you if this is the situation. You can also contact roadside assistance for help with your vehicle in case you need it.
Broken Key Ring
If your key fob won't work because the ring is broken there are a few options you can try. First, you should check to see if your broken piece is still in the ignition. If it's still in there it, remove it without damaging either the ignition lock or the door lock. If you are having trouble removing it, call a locksmith for assistance. They have tools that can safely remove a damaged or broken key from the ignition.
A broken car key could also be caused by corrosion of the plastic frame or circuit board. Clean the board with rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. car keys repairs near me will remove any corrosion and ensure that the contact pads don't become damaged.
If your key won't start 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. You can also use superglue to fix a broken ring. First, clean the broken ring with a damp towel and then apply a small amount of superglue to each end of the wire or nail. Let the pieces dry and then press them together. These DIY solutions may look appealing, but they're just temporary solutions. For long-term repairs, you'll want to get an experienced locksmith. They have the experience and tools to fix a broken key quickly and effectively. They can replace the battery and reprogram your key fob, if needed.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades break from a lot of wear and tear. If this happens, it's time to get a new key. The issue isn't as serious as you might think at first glance. The most significant issue is that the blade broke off from the case.
One method to fix this is to spray the key hole with a fluid that lubricates the key hole. Then, you can use pliers, pins, or tweezers to grab the end of the broken key and remove it. You could also employ a magnet in the event that the key is magnetic. Just be careful not to use a magnet on an ignition key since it could cause the lock tumbler to break.
Contact a locksmith immediately when you are unable take out the damaged part of the key. They're equipped with special tools to safely extract keys without causing further damage.
Super glue can be used to fix an open lock that has snapped. Apply a small amount of glue to the edges of the crack and press them together. Wait until the glue is dry before you insert your key into the lock. This method is not very reliable, and you might have to repeat it a few times before it works. Super glue may not hold the key together. This is more of a temporary solution than a permanent solution.
Broken Plastic Loop
If your key fob's plastic loop breaks off it can render the key useless. Luckily, this is an simple fix. You can use thick wire or a finishing nail as a replacement. For each end of the wire or nail, drill two holes into the loop of plastic. Cut the wire or nail to key width, and place tiny drops of superglue into each hole. Press the nail or wire into the holes and allow them to dry.
Another option is to get the replacement shell from a locksmith that sells them. They can take out the programmable component of your key, move it to the new shell, and cut a new blade for much less than a full replacement cost.
This isn't the most efficient option, but it can help you get back on the road once more if your key been cut in half. It can be difficult to repair the key blade if it's in the ignition. You can try using a hair clip, a needle or an extractor tool to pull the broken piece of the ignition, however this is risky if you're not cautious. Call a locksmith with special tools to safely remove damaged keys from ignitions. You can also request a new key made with the correct cuts for the ignition of your car.
Broken Master Key
If a key is broken inside the lock, you'll have to find it before it is completely destroyed. There are a few techniques you can use, including using lubricants and tools like needle nose pliers or tweezers to 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 across the face of the broken key, and then grasping a few of its 'teeth. If you're successful, you should be in a position to remove the broken key.
Many hardware stores carry the spiral key extraction tool. It is a thin flexible rod with spiral threads that can be placed in the keyway, and then bent to form the broken part of the key. Once it is firmly anchored to the serrations, you can twist the bar around and then pull it up 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 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 with the transponder in your car.