17 Reasons Why You Should Be Ignoring Repair Car Keys
How to Repair Car Keys
Car keys may seem tiny and insignificant, but they are vital to the operation of your vehicle. Replacing a traditional key or a modern transponder key can cost upwards of $200.
There are many ways to repair your car keys yourself at a fraction of the price. This article will go over the most frequently encountered car key problems and the DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Battery
Cars are equipped with remote key fobs that allows opening the doors, trunk and tailgate easier than ever. However, the battery inside the device can fail. There are, however, some tricks you can employ to solve this problem in a pinch.
Check to see if your vehicle is still in ignition mode. If it is, then the battery of the key fob may 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 in good condition and only needs to be replaced.
To replace the battery inside the fob, pry open the case with an screwdriver. Be careful not to put too much pressure on the fob because this could cause the fob to break in two. If the fob doesn't seem to be coming easily, try putting your pry tool into more than one place on the outside of the case.
Once the fob is opened take out the mechanical key, and then open the electronic portion of the car. Install the new battery and then snap back the shell. If the key fob doesn't work after this, there could be a bigger problem with your car's remote start system that requires a professional diagnostic. If this is the case, a reputable mechanic should be able assist you. You can also contact roadside assistance to assist with your vehicle in case you need it.
Broken Key Ring
There are a few things to do if your key fob doesn't function because the ring is broken. Examine if you can locate the broken part within the ignition. If it's still there the ignition, take it out without damaging either the ignition lock or the door lock. If you have trouble getting it out, contact an expert locksmith. They have the right tools to safely remove a damaged or broken key from the ignition.
A damaged car key could also be the result of corrosion of the plastic frame or circuit board. You can clean the circuit board using a cotton swab and ruby alcohol. This will remove any corrosion and ensure the contact pads don't get damaged.
You can fix a broken rings by using a thick nail or wire to close the hole. Superglue can also be used 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. Let the pieces dry and then press them together. These DIY solutions might look appealing, but they're only an interim measure. For long-term repairs, you'll want to hire an experienced locksmith. They have the experience and tools to fix damaged keys quickly and efficiently. They can replace the battery and reprogram the key fob if necessary.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades break from a lot of wear and tear. If this happens, it's time to buy a new key. This problem isn't nearly as serious as you might think at first glance. The main problem is that the blade broke off from the case.
One way to fix this is spraying the key hole with a oil-based lubricant. You can then make use of pliers or tweezers grab the broken end of the key and pull it. If the key is magnetic, you can also try using a magnet to help pull it out. Be This Web page not to use a magnetic tool on an ignition key since it could cause the lock tumbler to break.
Contact a locksmith right away if you are unable to remove the broken part of the key. They have special tools to safely remove keys without causing any further damage.
You can also use super glue to repair a snapped key. Apply a small amount of the glue to the edges and press them in. Wait until the glue dries before inserting your key into the lock. But this method isn't very reliable and you may have to repeat the process multiple times before it's successful. Super glue might not be able to hold the key together. This is more of a temporary measure than an option that can last.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the plastic loop gets damaged, it can make the key ineffective. This is a relatively easy fix. You can use thick wire or a finishing nail as a replacement. For each end of the nail or wire make two holes in the loop of plastic. Cut the wire or nail to the desired width, and place one drop of superglue in each hole. Then, press the wire or nail into the holes until it closes them and let it dry.
A locksmith who sells replacement shells is another option. They can take the programmable component of your key, then transfer it to the new shell and cut an entirely new blade for less than the full replacement cost.
It's not the ideal solution, but it can bring you back on the road in case your key broke in half. It can be difficult to fix when the key blade is in the ignition however. If you're not careful, you can use a hair clip or a needle to take the broken piece from the ignition. Get a locksmith equipped with special tools to safely remove broken keys from ignitions. They can also create new keys with the proper cuts for your vehicle's ignition to ensure that it functions correctly when inserted into the lock.
Broken Master Key
If a key is broken inside the lock, you'll need to try to retrieve it before it gets completely destroyed. You can make use of lubricants, tweezers, and needle nose pliers to grab the fragment of a broken key.
To begin, spray the inside of your lock with a lubricant like WD-40 or graphite powder. You may also try the hacksaw blade method which involves gently sliding the blade down along the side of the broken key, and attaching it to the 'teeth'. If you succeed in doing this, you should be able to take the broken key from the lock.
Many hardware stores sell the spiral key extraction tool. This tool has a thin flexible rod with spiral threads that can be inserted into the keyway and then bent to the broken portion of the key. Once car remote key repair has been snagged onto the serrations, you can turn it in a circular direction and lever it against the broken portion of the key to take it out.
Before contacting a locksmith attempt to take out the damaged master key. If you're unable to pull a piece out, you need to call in the big guns - let a locksmith cut you a brand new key and reprogram it with your car's transponder.