20 Things You Must Be Educated About Repair Car Keys
How to Repair Car Keys
The car keys aren't big and might not seem to be important, but they are essential to the functioning of your vehicle. The cost of replacing an old or modern transponder car keys can be upwards to $200.
There are methods to repair your car keys at home with only a fraction of the cost. This article will address the most frequently encountered car keys problems and their DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Battery
Cars come with remote key fobs which makes opening doors, trunk and tailgate easier than ever. The battery of the device is prone to dying. There are some tricks you can use to solve this problem quickly.
First, make sure that the car is in 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 straight towards the ignition button. If it works, the battery is probably in good condition and only needs to be replaced.
To replace the fob battery, first pry the case open using the help of a screwdriver or watch-type device. Be cautious not to put too much pressure on the fob because this could cause the fob to break in two. If the fob isn't opening easily, try putting your pry tool in multiple places on the outside of the case.
After the fob has been opened take out the mechanical key and then open the electronic section of the car. Insert the new battery and snap back the shell. 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 diagnosis. A reputable mechanic will be in a position to assist you if this is the situation. remote car key repairs can also contact roadside assistance for help with your vehicle in case you need it.
Broken Key Ring
If your key fob isn't working because the ring broke there are a few things you can try. Look to see if can locate the broken part inside the ignition. If it is, you should remove it without damaging the ignition lock or door lock. If you have trouble taking it off, call an expert locksmith. They have special tools that can safely remove keys that are damaged from the ignition.
A damaged car key could also be caused by corrosion on the plastic frame or circuit board. Clean the circuit board using cotton swab. This will remove any corrosion and ensure that the contact pads don't become damaged.
If your key isn't working because of a broken ring, you may be able fix it using a sturdy wire or nail to plug the hole. Superglue can also be used to repair a damaged ring. After cleaning the ring with a moist cloth Apply a small amount superglue to the ends of the wire or nail. Apply the glue to the ring and let them dry prior to using your car. These DIY solutions might seem appealing, but they're only a temporary solution. For long-term repairs, it's recommended to work with an expert locksmith. They have the expertise and tools to repair a broken key quickly and efficiently. They can replace the battery and reprogram the key fob if necessary.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades might break due to wear and tear. If this happens, it's probably time to get a new key. Fortunately, the issue isn't as severe as it appears at first. The main problem is that the blade has separated from the case.
Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is one method to repair it. You can then employ pliers or tweezers grab the broken end of the key and pull it. You can also make use of a magnet if the key is magnetic. Be cautious not to use a magnetic tool on an ignition key since it could cause the tumbler in the lock to break.
Contact a locksmith right away in the event that you are unable to remove the broken part of the key. They have special tools that can safely remove keys without causing damage.
You can also apply 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 is dry before inserting the key into the lock. This method is not very secure, and you could have to repeat it a few times before it works. Additionally the super glue might not be enough strong to keep the key in place. Therefore, this is more of a stopgap measure rather than a permanent solution.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the plastic loop gets damaged, it can make the key useless. This is a relatively easy fix. You can use wire or a finishing nail to replace it. Make two holes in the plastic loop that is broken at each end of the wire or nail. Cut the nail or wire to key width and place a drop of superglue on each hole. Press the wire or nail into the holes to seal them and let it dry.
A locksmith who sells replacement shells is a different option. They can transfer the programmable section of your key into the new shell, and cut an entirely new blade at a fraction of the cost.
This isn't the best option, but it can get you on the road once more if your key split in half. However, it can be difficult to repair the key blade if it is in the ignition. You can try using hair clips or needle extractor tool to pull the broken piece of the ignition, but this is risky if you're not cautious. The best solution is to contact a locksmith who has special tools for safely removing damaged keys from the ignition. They can also design new keys that have the proper cuts for the ignition of your vehicle and ensure it works correctly when inserted into the lock.
Broken Master Key
If a key breaks inside the lock, you'll need to attempt to retrieve it before it is completely destroyed. You can make use of the tweezers, lubricants and needle nose pliers for grabbing the broken fragment of a key.
Spray the inside of your lock with WD-40 or graphite powder. You can also try the hacksaw blade method that involves carefully sliding the blade along the edge of the broken key and connecting to a few of the 'teeth'. If you are able to do this you should be able to remove the broken key from the lock.
Another useful tool is a spiral key extractor, that can be found in a wide range of hardware stores. It is a thin flexible rod with spiral threads that can be inserted in the keyway, and later bent into the broken part of the key. Once it has caught onto the serrations, you can turn the bar around and then pull it against the broken part of the key.
It's worth trying to get rid of the master key that is broken before calling a professional locksmith. If you're unable to take the broken piece off it's time to call in the professionals. A locksmith can make you a new key that can be programmed using the transponder in your car.