The 10 Scariest Things About Repair Car Keys
How to Repair Car Keys
The car keys are small and may not be considered important, but they're vital to the functioning of your vehicle. Replacing a traditional key or a transponder key that is modern could cost as much as $200.
There are methods to repair car key fob your car keys at home with only a fraction of the cost. This article will discuss the most frequently encountered car keys problems and their DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Battery
The remote key fobs for keys that come with cars make it easier than ever to open the trunk, doors, and the tailgate. The battery inside the device is prone to dying. Fortunately, there are a few techniques that can be employed to solve this problem in the event of a need.
First, check if the car is still in ignition mode. If it is, then the key fob battery may simply be low instead of dead. To test this, press the button on the key fob against the ignition button. If it works, the battery is probably fine and just needs to be replaced.
To replace the battery within the fob, pry the case open using a screwdriver. Be cautious not to apply too much pressure as this could cause the fob to split apart. If the fob isn't opening, try using your pry tool more than once around the outside of case.
Open the electronic compartment of your vehicle after you have removed the mechanical key. Install the new battery and then snap back the shell. If the key fob key repair near me doesn't work after this procedure, there could be a bigger problem with the remote car key repair start system that requires a professional to diagnose. If this is the case, a reliable mechanic should be able help you. You can also contact roadside assistance for assistance with your vehicle in case you need it.
Broken Key Ring
If your key fob won't work because the ring has broken, there are a few options you can try. Examine if you can locate the broken part within the ignition. If it is, remove it without damaging the ignition lock or door lock. If you have trouble removing it, call a locksmith for help. They have tools that can safely remove a damaged or broken key from the ignition.
A broken car key can be caused by corrosion of the plastic frame or circuit board. You can clean the circuit board using cotton swab. This will get rid of the corrosion and prevent damage to the contact pads.
If your key won't start because the ring is broken or was damaged, you might be able fix it with a strong wire or nail to seal the hole. You can also use superglue to fix a broken ring. First, clean the damaged ring with a damp towel and then apply a small amount superglue on each end of the nail or wire. Let the pieces dry and then press them in place. These DIY solutions may sound appealing, but they are only a temporary solution. It is best to employ an expert locksmith for repairs that last. They have the experience and tools to repair Car key damaged keys quickly and effectively. They can even replace the battery in your key fob and reprogram it if needed.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades break because of a lot wear and tear. If this occurs, you ought to buy a new blade. Fortunately, the issue isn't as severe as it might seem at first glance. The problem is that the metal blade has snapped away from the case.
One solution is spraying the key hole with lubricant. Then you can use pliers pins, or tweezers to grab the broken end of the key and remove it. You may also make use of a magnet if the key is magnetic. Just be careful not to use a magnetic tool on an ignition key as it could cause the lock tumbler to break.
Call a locksmith immediately when you are unable take out the damaged part of the key. They have the right tools to safely extract keys without causing any further damage.
Super glue can be used to fix the snapped lock. Apply a small amount glue to the edges of the crack and press them together. Make sure the glue has dried before inserting the key into the lock. But this method isn't very reliable and you might have repeat the process several times before it's successful. In addition, the super glue may not be enough strong to keep the key in place. This is more of a temporary solution than an option that is permanent.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the loop of plastic on your key fob fails it can render the key useless. This is a relatively easy fix. For a replacement, you can use an extremely thick wire or a finishing nail. For each end of the wire or nail make two holes in the plastic loop. Cut the wire or nail to the desired width, and place one drop of superglue in each hole. Apply the nail or wire into the holes and allow them to dry.
Another option is to purchase a replacement shell from a locksmith that sells them. They can transfer the programmable portion of your key to the new shell, and cut a brand new blade for less than the cost.
It's not the ideal solution, but it will get you back on the road if your key broke in half. However, it can be difficult to fix the blade of the key if it's in the ignition. If you are not careful, you can employ a hair clip, or needle to remove the broken part from the ignition. Contact a locksmith who has special tools to safely remove broken keys from ignitions. You can also request a new key that is made using the correct cuts to fit the ignition of your vehicle.
Broken Master Key
If a key gets damaged inside the lock, you'll need to find it before it gets completely destroyed. There are several methods you can use, including using lubricants and tools like needle nose pliers and tweezers to take a small piece of the damaged key and remove it.
Spray the inside of your lock with WD-40 or graphite powder. You could also try the hacksaw blade method, which involves carefully sliding the blade down along the side of the broken key, and attaching it to the 'teeth' - if you are able to do this, you should be able remove the broken key from the lock.
Another tool that is useful is a spiral key extractor, which you can find in many hardware stores. It's a thin and flexible bar with spiral threads that can be inserted into the keyway and bent to get into the broken part of the key. Once it has hooked onto the serrations, it is possible to twist it in a circular motion and lever it against the broken part of the key to take it out.
It's worth trying to get rid of a master key that's broken prior to calling an expert locksmith. If you are unable to get a piece out, it's time to call in the big guns and have a locksmith cut you a brand new key and reprogram it with the transponder of your car key button repair.