11 Ways To Totally Defy Your Repair Car Keys
How to Repair Full Content aren't big and may not seem important, but they are essential to the functioning of your car. Replacing an old key or a transponder key that is modern could cost as much as $200.
There are ways to fix your car keys yourself for a fraction of the price. This article will cover the most frequent car keys issues as well as their DIY fixes.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
Cars come with a remote key fob that makes opening the doors and trunk easier than ever. However, the battery in the device can fail. Fortunately, there are a few tricks that can be used to resolve this issue in the event of a need.
Examine if your vehicle is still in ignition mode. If it is, then the battery on the key fob could simply be depleted instead of dead. To test, press the button on the fob against the ignition button of the vehicle. If this works, then the battery is probably working fine and just needs to be replaced.
To replace the fob's battery, first pry the case open using the help of a screwdriver or watch-type device. Be careful not to apply too much pressure since this could cause the fob's to split in two. If the fob isn't opening try prying the tool several times around the outside of the case.
After the fob has been opened take out the mechanical key and open the electronic section of the car. Then insert the replacement battery and then snap the shell back together. If the key fob won't work after this, there could be a larger problem with your car's remote start system that requires a professional diagnostic. A reputable mechanic will be able help you in this situation. If you need help with your vehicle, you can contact roadside assistance.
Broken Key Ring
There are a few options to do in the event that your key fob won't work because the ring has been broken. The first step is to see if the damaged piece is still in the ignition. If it's still in there, remove it without causing damage to the ignition lock or the door lock. Contact a locksmith if are having difficulty removing the key. They have specialized tools that allow you to safely remove a damaged key from the ignition.
A broken car key could also be caused by corrosion on the plastic frame or circuit board. You can clean the circuit board using a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol. This will get rid of the corrosion and prevent damage to the contact pads.
You can repair a damaged ring using a strong nail or wire to close the hole. Superglue can be used to fix the broken key ring. After cleaning the ring with a moist cloth, apply a small amount superglue on each end of the nail or wire. Apply the glue to the ring 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 work with an expert locksmith. They have the tools and expertise to fix a broken car key quickly and effectively. They can even replace the battery on the key fob and reprogram it if needed.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades can break due to 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 believe at first. car key repair near me is that the metal blade has separated from the case.
Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is one method to fix it. Then, you can use pliers or tweezers to grab the broken end of the key and pull it. If the key is magnetic, you can also use a magnet to assist in pulling it out. Be cautious not to use a magnet on an ignition key since it could cause the tumbler in the lock to break.
If you're unable to take the broken piece from the key, contact a locksmith right away. They have tools that allow them to safely remove keys without causing damage.
You can also try super glue to fix a broken key. Apply a small amount glue to the edges of the break and press them together. Wait until the glue has dried before inserting the key into the lock. This method isn't very secure, and you could have to repeat it several times before it works. Super glue may not be able to hold the key in place. This is more of a temporary solution than a permanent one.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the loop of plastic on your key fob breaks, it can render the key ineffective. This is a simple fix. To replace it, you can use an extremely thick wire or a finishing nail. Drill two holes in the broken plastic loop for each end of the wire or nail. Cut the wire or nail to key width and put a drop of superglue in each hole. Press the nail or wire into the holes and let them dry.
A locksmith who sells replacement shells is a different option. They can take the programmable part of your key, transfer it to the new shell, and cut the new blade for less than a full replacement cost.
This is not the best solution, but will help you get back on the road again if your key has split in half. It can be difficult to fix the blade of the key if it's in the ignition. If you're not cautious, you can employ a hair clip, or needle to remove the damaged part from the ignition. Get a locksmith equipped with special tools to safely remove damaged keys from ignitions. They can also create a new key with the proper cuts for your vehicle's ignition, so it will work properly when it is inserted into the lock.
Broken Master Key
If a key is broken inside the lock, you'll have to attempt to retrieve it before it's completely destroyed. You can employ the tweezers, lubricants and needle nose pliers for grabbing the broken fragment of a key.
To begin, spray the inside of your lock with a lubricant such as graphite powder or WD-40. You can also try the hacksaw blade method which involves carefully moving the blade down the side of the broken key and connecting to a few of the 'teeth' - if you succeed in doing this you should be able pull out 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 inserted into the keyway, and later bent to form the broken part of the key. Once it has been snagged onto the serrations, you can twist it in a circular motion, and press it against the broken section of the key to pull it out.
It's worth trying to remove a broken master key before calling an expert locksmith. If you're unable to take the broken piece off, you'll need to call in the professionals. A locksmith can make you an entirely new key that will be programmed with your car transponder.