The 10 Scariest Things About Repair Car Keys
How to repair car key fob Car Keys
Car keys may seem tiny and insignificant, but they are vital for the proper operation of your vehicle. Replacing a traditional or a modern transponder key could cost as much as $200.
There are ways to fix your car keys yourself for just a fraction of the cost. This article will discuss some of the most frequent car key problems and their DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Battery
Cars are equipped with a remote key fob that allows opening the doors, trunk and tailgate easier than ever. However, the battery in the device can fail. There are some tricks you can use to resolve this problem quickly.
First, make sure that the car is in ignition mode. If it is, the key fob's battery might be low instead of dead. To test this, press the button on the key fob right up against the vehicle's ignition button. If this does not work, the battery is probably working fine and has to be replaced.
To replace the battery in the fob, you need to open the case using a screwdriver. Be careful not to put too much pressure on the fob since this could cause the fob to split in two. If the fob isn't opening open with ease, try placing your pry tool in several places around the outside of the case.
Open the electronic portion of your car once you have removed the mechanical key. Install the new battery and snap back the shell. If the key fob isn't working after this procedure, there could be a more serious issue with your car's remote start system that requires a professional to diagnose. If this is the case, a trusted mechanic should be able help you. You can also contact roadside assistance for help with your vehicle in case you need it.
Broken Key Ring
There are a few things you can do when your key fob does not work because the ring has been broken. First, you should check to see if the damaged piece is still in the ignition. If it's still there it, remove it without damaging the ignition lock or the door lock. Call a locksmith if you are having difficulty taking the key off. They have the right tools to safely remove a damaged key from the ignition.
A damaged car key could also be caused by corrosion of the plastic frame or circuit board. You can clean the board with the help of rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. This will remove the corrosion and stop damage to the contact pads.
You can fix a broken ring using a strong wire or nail to close the hole. Superglue can also be used to fix a broken ring. After cleaning the ring using a damp cloth apply a small amount of superglue to each end of the nail or wire. Then, press the pieces together and let them dry before using your vehicle. These DIY solutions can seem appealing, but they're only temporary solutions. It's best to hire an expert locksmith for repairs that last. They have the expertise and tools to repair damaged keys quickly and effectively. They can replace the battery and reprogram the key fob, if needed.
Broken Key Blade
Key blades may break because of a lot wear and tear. If this happens, it's probably time to get a new key. Luckily, this problem isn't as serious as it may appear at first glance. The primary issue is that the blade snapped off the case.
One method to fix this is spraying the key hole with a lubricant. You can then make use of pliers or tweezers grasp the broken end of the key and pull it. If the key is magnetic, you can also try using a magnetic tool to help pull it out. Just be careful not to use a magnetic tool on an ignition key because it could cause the lock tumbler to break.
Contact a locksmith immediately when you are unable take out the damaged part of the key. They have special tools that permit them to safely remove keys without causing further damage.
Super glue can be used to fix a snapped lock. Apply a small amount of glue to the edges of the crack and press them together. Wait until the glue has dried before inserting the key into the lock. This method isn't very secure, and you could have to repeat it a few times before it works. Super glue may not hold the key together. So, this is more of a stopgap measure than a permanent solution.
Broken Plastic Loop
If your key fob's plastic loop is damaged it could render the key useless. Luckily, this is a fairly easy fix. You can use thick wire or a nail for finishing as a replacement. For each end of the wire or nail you need to drill two holes into the loop of plastic. Cut the wire or nail into a key width, and then place one drop 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 that sells them. They can take the programmable part of your key, transfer it to the new shell and cut an entirely new blade for less than a full replacement cost.
It's not the most ideal solution, but it can get you back on the road in case your key split in half. It can be difficult to keyless entry repair car key (https://images.google.td/) when the key blade is in the ignition however. You can try using hair clips or a needle extractor tool to pull the broken piece of the ignition, however this is risky if you're not careful. The best option is to contact a locksmith who has special tools for safely removing broken keys from the ignition. You can also get a new key made with the correct cuts to fit the ignition of your vehicle.
Broken Master Key
If a key breaks inside the lock, you'll have to attempt to retrieve it before it's completely destroyed. There are a few techniques that you can try, such as using lubricants as well as tools such as needle nose pliers and tweezers to pick up a piece of the key that has been broken and remove it.
Spray the inside of your lock with WD-40 or graphite powder. You can also use the hacksaw blade method that involves sliding the blade along the side of the broken key, and grabbing onto some of its 'teeth. If you're successful you will be able to cut the damaged key.
Another useful tool 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 then bent to get into the broken part of the key. Once it is hooked to the serrations, it is possible to twist it in a circular motion, and press it against the broken part of the key to get it out.
Before contacting a locksmith try to get rid of the broken master key. If you can't get a piece out, it's time to call the big guns - get a locksmith to cut you a brand new key and reprogram it using the transponder of your emergency car key repair.