The 10 Scariest Things About Repair Car Keys
How to Repair Car Keys
The car keys are tiny and may not be considered important, but they are essential to the functioning of your car. Replacing an old key or a transponder key that is modern could cost as much as $200.
However, there are ways to fix your car keys at home with a fraction of the cost. This article will go over some of the most common car keys problems and the DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Battery
Cars are equipped with remote key fobs that allows opening the doors, trunk and tailgate more convenient than ever before. However, the battery inside the device could die. There are some tricks you can use to resolve this issue fast.
Check to see if your car is still in the ignition mode. If it is, then the battery of the key fob may simply be depleted instead of dead. To test this, press the fob's button against the ignition button of the vehicle. If it works, the battery is likely fine and only needs to be replaced.
To replace the battery in the fob, the case open using a screwdriver. Be cautious not to put too much pressure on the fob as this could cause the fob to break apart. If the fob isn't opening Try using your pry tool several times around the outside of the case.
Open the electronic part of your vehicle after you have removed the mechanical key. Insert the new battery and then snap back the shell. If the key fob won't work after this, there may be a bigger problem with the remote start system that requires a professional to diagnose. A trusted mechanic will be able help you in this situation. If you need help with your vehicle or vehicle, you can get roadside assistance.
Broken Key Ring
There are a few steps you can do when your key fob does not work because the ring is broken. First, you should check to see if the broken piece is still inside the ignition. If it is, you should remove it without damaging the ignition lock or door lock. If you are having trouble taking it off, call an expert locksmith. They have tools that can safely remove the damaged key from the ignition.
A damaged car key lock repair near me key could also be caused by corrosion on the plastic frame or circuit board. You can clean the circuit board using a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol. This will eliminate corrosion and ensure the contact pads don't become damaged.
If your key isn't starting because of a broken ring or was damaged, you might be able to repair key it by using a thick wire or nail to plug the hole. You can also use superglue to repair a damaged ring. First, clean the broken rings with a damp cloth and then apply a small amount of superglue on each end of the nail or wire. Press the pieces together and allow them to dry before using your vehicle. These DIY solutions may seem appealing, but they are only a temporary measure. For long-term repairs, it's best to hire an expert locksmith. They have the expertise and tools to repair Car key the broken key quickly and effectively. They can replace the battery and reprogram your key fob if necessary.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades can break because of a lot wear and tear. If this happens, it's probably time to get a new key. This problem isn't nearly as serious as you might think at first glance. The most significant issue is that the blade broke off from the case.
One method to fix this is to spray the key hole with oil-based lubricant. You can then make use of pliers or tweezers grasp the damaged end of the key and pull it. If the key is magnetic, you could also try using a magnetic tool to help pull it out. Use a magnet to assist you remove the key, but take care to not break the tumbler of the lock.
If you're not able to take the broken piece of the key, contact an emergency locksmith. They have special tools that can safely remove 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. After that, wait until the glue dries before you insert your key into the lock. This method is not very reliable, and you may have to repeat it several times before it is successful. Plus, the super glue may not be enough strong to hold the key together. So, this is more of a temporary measure than an option that can last.
Broken Plastic Loop
If your key fob's plastic loop gets damaged, it can make the key ineffective. This is a relatively easy fix. To replace it, you can use wire that is thick or a finishing nail. For each end of the wire or nail you need to drill two holes into the plastic loop. Cut the wire or nail to key width and put the superglue drop in each hole. Press the nail or wire into the holes and let them dry.
Another option is to purchase an alternative shell from a locksmith who sells them. They can take out the programmable part of your key, transfer it to the new shell, and cut the new blade for less than a full replacement cost.
This isn't the best option, but it can get you on the road again if your key has been cut in half. It can be difficult to repair when the key blade is in the ignition, however. You could try using a hair clip or a needle extractor tool to remove the damaged piece of the ignition, but this can be risky if not careful. The best solution is to contact an expert locksmith who has tools for safely removing broken keys from the ignition. They can also make you a new key with the correct cuts for your ignition, so it will work perfectly when it is put into the lock.
Broken Master Key
You'll have to attempt at regaining the key before it becomes completely destroyed. You can employ lubricants, tweezers, and needle nose pliers for grabbing the fragment of a broken key.
Spray the inside of the lock with WD-40 or a graphite powder. You may also try the hacksaw blade method, which involves carefully sliding the blade down along the side of the broken key, and connecting to a few of the teeth - if you succeed in doing this, you should be able to take the broken key from the lock.
Another helpful tool is an extractor for keys spiral, that can be found 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 section of the key. Once it has been snagged onto the serrations, it is possible to twist it in a circular motion and push it against the damaged section of the key to get it out.
Before contacting a locksmith, attempt to take out the damaged master key before calling a locksmith. If you are unable to get an item out, it's time to call in the big guns and have a locksmith make you a brand new mobile key repair and reprogram it with the transponder in your car.