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How to Repair Car Keys

Car keys might seem tiny and insignificant, but they are vital for the proper operation of your vehicle. The cost of replacing an old or contemporary transponder car key can be upwards to $200.

However, there are ways to fix your car keys at home for less than. This article will discuss some of the most common car key problems and their DIY solutions.

Dead Key Fob Batteries

Cars are equipped with remote key fobs that allows opening the doors and trunk easier than ever. However, the battery inside the device could die. There are some tricks you can use to resolve this problem quickly.

Check to see if your car is still in the ignition mode. If it is the battery of the key fob might be low instead of dead. To test this, press the button on the key fob towards the ignition button. If online works, then the battery is likely fine and only needs to be replaced.

To replace the battery inside the fob, pry open the case with the screwdriver. Be cautious not to apply too much pressure because this could cause the fob to split apart. If the fob isn't opening open with ease, try placing your pry tool into several places on the outside of the case.

Open the electronic part of your car after you have removed the mechanical key. Then, you can insert the replacement battery and snap the shell back together. If the key fob isn't working after this, there may be a larger problem with your car's remote start system that requires a professional diagnostic. A reputable mechanic will be able help you if this is the situation. You can also reach out to roadside assistance for assistance with your vehicle in case you need it.

Broken Key Ring

If your key fob isn't functioning because the ring is broken there are a few options you could try. First, you should check to see if your broken piece is still in the ignition. If it's still there the ignition, take it out without damaging the ignition lock or the door lock. If you are having trouble removing it, call a locksmith for help. They have special tools to safely remove a damaged key from the ignition.

A damaged car key could be caused by corrosion on the plastic frame or circuit board. You can clean the circuit board by using a cotton swab and ruby alcohol. This will eliminate corrosion and ensure that the contact pads don't become damaged.

If your key isn't starting because the ring broke it, you might be able fix it with a strong wire or nail to close the hole. Superglue can also be used to fix a broken ring. First, clean the broken rings with a damp cloth and then apply a small amount of superglue on each end of the nail or wire. Let the pieces dry and then press them into place. These DIY solutions may appear appealing, but they're really just temporary solutions. It's best to hire an experienced locksmith for long-term repairs. They have the expertise and tools to fix damaged keys quickly and efficiently. They can even replace the battery on your key fob and change it's programming if required.

Broken Key Blade

Some key blades may break due to wear and tear. If this occurs, you must buy a new blade. Luckily, this problem isn't as serious as it may appear at first. The primary issue is that the metal blade has broken off from the case.

One way to fix this is to spray the key hole with a fluid that lubricates the key hole. Then, you can make use of pliers or tweezers grasp 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. Use a magnet to assist you remove the key, but take care to not sever the tumbler of the lock.

If you're unable to take the broken piece of key, contact an expert locksmith immediately. They're equipped with special tools to safely extract 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. After that, wait until the glue has dried before you insert your key into the lock. However, this method isn't secure and you may need to repeat the process a few times before it works. Super glue may not be able to hold the key in place. So, 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. It's a fairly simple fix. You can make use of wire or a finishing nail to replace it. Drill two holes in the plastic loop that is broken at each end of the wire or nail. Cut the wire or nail to key width, then place tiny drops of superglue into each hole. Press the wire or nail into the holes to close them and allow it to dry.

Another option is to purchase an alternative shell from a locksmith who sells them. They can transfer the programmable portion of your key into the new shell, and then cut a brand new blade for only a fraction of the price.

This is not the best solution, but will allow you to travel again if your key has been cut in half. It can be difficult to repair if the key blade is in the ignition, however. If you are not careful, you can use a hair clip or needle to remove the broken piece from the ignition. Call a locksmith with special tools to safely remove broken keys from ignitions. They can also make you a new key with the proper cuts for your ignition, so it will work properly when it is inserted into the lock.

Broken Master Key

You'll need to try at regaining the key before it becomes completely destroyed. There are a variety of methods you can use, including using lubricants as well as tools such as needle nose pliers and tweezers to take a small piece of the broken key and then remove it.

Spray the inside of the lock with WD-40 or a graphite powder. You may also try the hacksaw blade method, which involves carefully sliding the blade down along the edge of the broken key, and connecting to a few of the teeth - if you succeed in doing this, you should be able remove the broken key from the lock.

Another useful tool is an extractor for keys spiral, which you can find in many hardware stores. It is a thin flexible rod with spiral threads that can be inserted in the keyway and then bent into the broken part of the key. Once it has gotten caught on the serrations you can twist the bar around and then pull it up against the broken part of the key.

Before calling a locksmith, try to remove the broken master key. If you are unable to get an item out, it's time to call in the big guns to have a locksmith cut you a brand new key and reprogram it to your car's transponder.