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How to Repair Car Keys
The car keys are tiny and might not seem to be important, but they're essential for the proper operation of your vehicle. car keys repair of replacing a traditional or modern transponder car key could be as high as $200.
However, there are ways to repair your car keys at home with only a fraction of the cost. This article will cover the most common car keys issues as well as the DIY solutions to fix them.
Dead Key Fob Battery
Cars are equipped with remote key fobs that makes opening the doors, trunk and tailgate easier than ever. However, the battery inside the device could die. However, there are a few tricks you can employ to resolve this issue in the event of a need.
First, determine if the car is in ignition mode. If it is, the battery of the key fob may simply be depleted instead of dead. To test this, press the button on the key fob straight up against the vehicle's ignition button. If this is successful, the battery is probably in good condition and needs to be changed.
To replace the fob's battery, first pry open the case with an instrument like a screwdriver, or watch-type tool. Be cautious not to apply too much pressure as this could cause the fob's to split into two pieces. If the fob doesn't seem to be coming open easily, try wedge your pry tool into more than one place on the outside of the case.
Open the electronic compartment of your car after you have removed the mechanical key. Then insert the replacement battery and then snap the shell back together. If the key fob isn't working after this procedure, it could be that there is an problem with the remote starting system of your car. This will require an expert to identify. A reputable mechanic will capable of helping you if this is the situation. If you need help with your vehicle, you can contact roadside assistance.
Broken Key Ring
If your key fob isn't working because the ring is broken there are a few options you can try. Examine if you can find the broken piece in the ignition. If it's still there the ignition, take it out without causing damage to the ignition lock or the door lock. Contact a locksmith if have difficulty removing the key. They have specialized tools that are able to safely remove keys that are damaged from the ignition.
A damaged car key could be caused by corrosion of the plastic frame or circuit board. You can clean the circuit board by using a cotton swab and rubbing alcohol. This will remove the corrosion and stop damage to the contact pads.
You can repair a damaged ring using a strong wire or nail to seal the hole. You can also use superglue to repair a damaged ring. After cleaning the ring using a damp cloth, apply a small amount superglue to each end of the nail or wire. Press the pieces together and allow them to dry before using your car. These DIY solutions may sound appealing, but they are only a temporary measure. It is recommended to hire an skilled locksmith for any long-term repairs. They have the expertise and tools to repair the broken key quickly and efficiently. They can even replace the battery on your key fob and reprogram it if needed.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades break because of a lot wear and tear. If this happens, it's time to purchase a new key. The issue isn't as serious as you might believe at first. The main problem is that the blade has broken off from the case.
Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is one solution to fix the problem. Then, you can make use of pliers or tweezers grasp the damaged end of the key and pull it. If the key is magnetic, you could also use a magnet to assist in pulling it out. Just be careful not to use a magnetic tool on an ignition key since it could cause the tumbler in the lock to break.
If you're not able to remove the broken piece from the key, contact an expert locksmith immediately. They have special tools that let them safely remove keys without causing damage.
You can also try super glue to repair a snapped key. Apply a small amount to the edges and press them in. Wait until the glue is dry before inserting the key into the lock. This method isn't reliable and you may have repeat the process several times before it works. Super glue may not be able to hold the key together. Therefore, this is more of a stopgap measure than an option that can last.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the plastic loop on your key fob breaks it can cause the key to become ineffective. It's an simple fix. As a replacement alternative, you can use a thick wire or finishing nail. For each end of the nail or wire make two holes in the plastic loop. Cut the wire or nail to key width, and place tiny drops of superglue into each hole. Then, press the wire or nail into the holes and allow them to dry.
Another option is to get the replacement shell from a locksmith who sells them. They can transfer the programmable portion of your key into the new shell, and cut an entirely new blade at a fraction of the cost.
It's not the most ideal solution, but it can get you back on the road if your key split in half. It's not easy to repair if the key blade is in the ignition however. You can try using hair clips, a needle or an extractor tool to remove the damaged part out of the ignition, however this can be risky if not cautious. The best choice is to contact a locksmith with special tools for safely removing damaged keys from the ignition. They can also design a new key with the appropriate cuts for your vehicle's ignition to ensure that it functions correctly when inserted into the lock.
Broken Master Key
If a key gets damaged inside the lock, you'll have to find it before it gets completely destroyed. There are a few techniques you can use, including using lubricants, tools, needle nose pliers and tweezers to grab a fragment of the key that has been broken and remove it.
Spray the inside of the lock with WD-40 or a graphite powder. You may also try the hacksaw method, that involves carefully sliding the blade along the edge of the broken key, and attaching it to the 'teeth' - if you succeed in doing this you will be able to pull out the broken key from the lock.
Many hardware stores sell tools for key extraction that spiral. This has a thin flexible bar with spiral threads, that can be inserted into the keyway and then bent to get into the damaged section of the key. Once it has been snagged onto the serrations, you can turn it in a circular direction and press it against the broken section of the key to take it out.
It's worth trying to remove a master key that's broken prior to calling a professional locksmith. If you're unable to remove the broken piece, you'll need to call in the professionals. A locksmith can give you an entirely new key that will be programmed to the transponder of your car.