The 10 Scariest Things About Repair Car Keys
How to Repair Car Keys
car remote key repair keys might seem tiny and insignificant, however they are crucial to the operation of your vehicle. The cost of replacing an old or modern transponder car keys can be upwards to $200.
There are solutions to fix your car keys yourself for just a fraction of the cost. This article will cover the most frequently encountered car key problems and the DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
Cars are equipped with a remote key fob which makes opening doors and trunk easier than ever before. The battery of this device is prone to dying. There are, however, some tricks that can be used to solve this problem in an emergency.
Check to see if the vehicle is still in ignition mode. If it is, the key fob battery may be drained instead of dead. To test this, push the button on the key fob against the ignition button. If it does not work, the battery is probably working fine and just requires to be replaced.
To replace the battery within the fob, 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 apart. If the fob isn't opening open easily, try wedge your pry tool in multiple places around the outside of the case.
Once the fob is open 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 won't work after this, there may be a bigger problem with your car's remote start system that requires a professional to diagnose. A reputable mechanic will be able help you in this situation. If you need help with your vehicle and you need help, you can call roadside assistance.
Broken Key Ring
If your key fob isn't functioning because the ring broke there are a few things you can try. Examine if you can locate the broken part inside the ignition. If it's still there, remove it without causing damage to the ignition lock or the door lock. If you're having difficulty taking it off, call a locksmith for assistance. They have specialized tools that allow you to safely remove the damaged key from the ignition.
A broken car key can also be caused by corrosion of the plastic frame or circuit board. Clean the board with the help of rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. This will eliminate the corrosion and prevent damage to the contact pads.
If your key won't start because the ring broke, you may be able fix it by using a thick wire or nail to seal the hole. Superglue can be used to repair the broken key ring. First, clean the damaged ring with a damp towel and then apply a small amount superglue to each end of the wire or nail. Allow the pieces to dry, and then press them together. These DIY solutions may sound appealing, but they are only temporary solutions. For long-term repairs, it's recommended to hire a professional locksmith. They have the experience and tools to repair a broken key quickly and effectively. They can even replace the battery in your key fob, and change it's programming if required.
broken key repair Key Blade
Some key blades might break due to wear and tear. If this happens, it's probably time to buy a new key. The issue isn't as serious as you think at first glance. The problem is that the metal blade has separated from the case.
Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is a method to repair it. Then, you can 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. Be careful not to use a magnetic tool on an ignition key since it could cause the tumbler in the lock to break.
Contact a locksmith immediately if you are unable to remove the broken piece of the key. They have tools that let them safely remove keys without causing damage.
You can also apply super glue to fix a broken key. Apply a small amount of glue to the edges of the crack and press them together. After that, wait until the glue dries before inserting your key into the lock. This method isn't reliable and you might have repeat the process several times before it works. In addition, the super glue may not be enough to keep the key in place. This is more of a temporary fix than a permanent one.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the plastic loop breaks off it could render the key useless. Luckily, this is an simple fix. You can make use of wire or a nail for finishing to replace it. For each end of the nail or wire you need to drill two holes into the loop of plastic. Cut the wire or nail into a key width, and place one drop of superglue in each hole. Then, press the wire or nail into the holes and let them dry.
A locksmith who sells replacement shells is a different option. They can transfer the programmable section of your key to the new shell and cut new blades for only a fraction of the price.
It's not the most ideal solution, but it'll help you get 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. You can try using hair clips, a needle or an extractor tool to pull the broken piece of the ignition, but this is risky if you're not cautious. The best solution is to call a locksmith who has special tools for safely removing broken keys from the ignition. You can also get a new key made with the proper cuts for the ignition of your car keys repairs.
Broken Master Key
You'll need to at regaining the key before it becomes completely destroyed. There are several methods you can employ, such as using lubricants, tools, needle nose pliers and tweezers. These tools can pick up a piece of the damaged key and then remove it.
Spray the inside of the lock with WD-40 or graphite powder. You can also try the hacksaw blade method, which involves carefully sliding the blade down along the edge of the broken key and attaching it to the 'teeth'. If you are able to do this you will be able to take the broken key from the lock.
Many hardware stores carry the spiral key extraction tool. It is a thin, flexible bar with spiral threads, which can be put into the keyway, and then bent to reach into the damaged section of the key. Once it has gotten caught on 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 not able to remove the broken piece it's time to call in the professionals. Locksmiths can create you a new key that will be programmed to the transponder of your car remote key fob repair.