The 10 Most Terrifying Things About Repair Car Keys
How to Repair Car Keys
Car keys might seem tiny and insignificant, but they are vital for the proper operation of your vehicle. The cost of replacing an old or modern transponder car key could be as high as $200.
There are ways to fix your car keys yourself at a fraction of the price. This article will go over some of the most common car key repair shop problems and their DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Battery
The remote key fobs that are included with cars make it simpler than ever before to open the trunk, doors and the tailgate. The battery inside the device is prone to dying. There are some tricks you can use to resolve this problem quickly.
Examine if your vehicle is in ignition mode. If it is the battery on the key fob might be low instead of dead. To test, press the fob's button against the ignition button of the vehicle. If it works, the battery is probably fine and has to be replaced.
To replace the battery inside the fob, you need to open the case using the screwdriver. Be cautious not to put too much pressure on the fob as this could cause the fob to split apart. If the fob isn't coming easily, try putting your pry tool in more than one place around the outside of the case.
After the fob has been opened then remove the mechanical key, and then open the electronic section of the car. Install the new battery and snap back the shell. If your key fob still doesn't work after this procedure, it could be a larger problem with the remote starting system of your vehicle. This will require a professional to diagnose. A reputable mechanic will be in a position to assist you if this is the situation. If you require assistance with your vehicle, you can contact roadside assistance.
Broken Key Ring
If your key fob isn't functioning because the ring broke, there are a few things you could try. Look to see if can locate the broken part in the ignition. If it's still in there the ignition, take it out without causing damage to the ignition lock or the door lock. If you have trouble removing it, call a locksmith for assistance. They have special tools to safely remove a broken key from the ignition.
Another reason for the car key breaking is corrosion on the circuit board or plastic frame. You can clean the circuit board using a cotton swab soaked in ruby alcohol. This will eliminate the corrosion and prevent damage to the contact pads.
If your key won't start because of a broken ring it, you might be able to repair it by using a thick wire or nail to close the hole. You can also use superglue to fix a broken ring. First, clean the damaged ring with a damp cloth and then apply a small amount superglue to each end of the wire or nail. Press the pieces together and allow them to dry before using your vehicle. These DIY solutions may sound appealing, however they are only a temporary measure. It is best to employ an experienced locksmith for long-term repairs. They have the tools and expertise to fix a broken car key repair near me car key quickly and effectively. They can replace the battery and reprogram your key fob in the event of need.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades break due to a lot of wear and tear. If this happens, it's time to buy a new key. This problem isn't nearly as serious as you think at first. The problem is that the metal blade has separated from the case.
Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is one solution to repair it. Then you can use pliers pins, or tweezers to grab the end of the broken key and pull it out. You could also use a magnet if the key is magnetic. Use a magnet as a aid to you remove the key, but be careful to not break the tumbler of the lock.
Contact a locksmith immediately when you are unable take out the damaged part of the key. They have special tools that allow them to safely remove keys without causing damage.
You can also try super glue to fix a broken key. Apply a small amount of glue to the edges and press them together. Wait until the glue dries before inserting your key into the lock. But this method isn't very secure and you may need repeat the process several times before it works. Additionally, the super glue may not be enough strong to hold the key together. Therefore, this is more of a stopgap measure rather than an option that can last.
Broken Plastic Loop
If your key fob's plastic loop is damaged, it can make the key ineffective. It's an simple fix. You can use wire or a nail for finishing to replace it. For each end of the wire or nail, drill two holes into the loop of plastic. Cut the nail or wire to the desired width and then put a drop of superglue on each hole. Press the nail or wire into the holes and let them dry.
A locksmith who sells replacement shells is an alternative option. They can remove the programmable component 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 solution, but will help you get back on the road again if your key has split in half. It's not easy to fix when the blade of the key is in the ignition however. You can try using a hair clip or a needle extractor tool to remove the damaged piece of the ignition, but this is risky if you're not cautious. Contact a locksmith who has special tools to safely remove broken keys from ignitions. They can also make you new keys that have the correct cuts for your vehicle's ignition to ensure that it functions perfectly when it is put into the lock.
Broken Master key repair shop near me
If a key gets damaged inside the lock, you'll have to try to retrieve it before it's completely destroyed. There are several methods you can use, including using lubricants, tools, needle nose pliers and tweezers to pick up a piece of the broken key and then remove it.
Spray the inside of the lock with WD-40 or graphite powder. You can also employ the hacksaw blade technique by moving the blade across the face of a damaged key and then grasping a few of its 'teeth.' If you are successful, you should be able to cut the damaged key.
Many hardware stores offer a spiral key extraction tool. It is a thin, 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 is hooked to the serrations, you can twist it in a circular direction and press it against the broken part of the key to take it out.
It's worth attempting to remove the master key that is broken before calling an expert locksmith. If you're unable to get rid of the broken piece then you'll have to call in the professionals. A locksmith can give you an entirely new key that will be programmed using the transponder in your car.