How to Repair Car Keys
Car keys may seem small and insignificant, but they are vital for the proper operation of your vehicle. Replacing an old key or a transponder one could cost as much as $200.
However, there are ways to fix your car keys at home with less than. This article will address the most frequently encountered car keys issues and their DIY fixes.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
The remote key fobs that come with cars make it easier than ever to open the trunk, doors and the tailgate. The battery of this device is prone to dying. There are a few strategies you can use to resolve this issue quickly.
Check to see if your vehicle is still in ignition mode. If it is, the key fob's battery may be low, but not dead. To test this, push the button on the key fob straight towards the ignition button. If it does not work, the battery is probably working fine and has to be replaced.
To replace the fob's battery, first pry the case off using the help of a screwdriver or watch-type device. Don't apply too much force as this may cause the fob's case split. 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 part of your car after you have removed the mechanical key. Then, insert the battery replacement and then snap the shell back together. If you can try this out fob doesn't work after this, there could be a larger 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 assist you. You can also reach out to roadside assistance for help with your vehicle in case you need it.
Broken Key Ring
There are a few steps that you can do if your key fob doesn't function because the ring is broken. Examine if you can find the broken piece within the ignition. If it's still inside, remove it without damaging the ignition lock or the door lock. If you are having trouble taking it off, call a locksmith for assistance. They have tools that can safely remove a broken key from the ignition.
A damaged car key could also be caused by corrosion on the plastic frame or circuit board. You can clean the circuit board by using a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol. This will remove the corrosion and protect to the contact pads.
If auto key repair won't start because of a broken ring it, you might be able to repair it using a sturdy wire or nail to plug the hole. Superglue can also be used to fix a broken ring. First, clean the broken ring with a damp towel and then apply a small amount superglue to each end of the wire or nail. Press the pieces together and let them dry before using your vehicle. These DIY solutions can seem appealing, but they're only an interim measure. It's best to hire an skilled locksmith for any long-term repairs. They have the tools and know-how to repair a damaged car key quickly and effectively. They can replace the battery and reprogram your key fob if necessary.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades may break due to wear and tear. If this occurs, you ought to buy a new blade. Luckily, this problem isn't as serious as it appears at first. The most significant issue is that the metal blade snapped off the case.
One way to fix this is to spray the key hole with lubricant. Then you can use pliers, tweezers, or a pin to grasp the broken end of the key and take it out. If the key is magnetic, you can also try using a magnetic tool to pull it out. Be cautious not to use a magnet on an ignition key as it could cause the lock tumbler to break.
Contact a locksmith right away when you are unable remove the broken part of the key. They have tools that permit them to safely remove keys without causing damage.
You can also apply super glue to fix a snapped key. Apply a small amount of glue to the edges of the crack and press them together. Then, wait until the glue has dried before you insert your key into the lock. This method isn't reliable and you might have to repeat the process multiple times before it's successful. Plus the super glue might not be enough strong to keep the key in place. This is more of a temporary solution than a permanent solution.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the plastic loop breaks off, it can make the key useless. It's an easy fix. As a replacement alternative, you can opt for wire that is thick or a finishing nail. Make two holes in the broken plastic loop for each end of the nail or wire. Cut the nail or wire to a key width, then put the superglue drop in each hole. Press the wire or nail into the holes until it closes them and allow it to dry.
A locksmith who sells replacement shells is a different option. They can take the programmable portion of your key, transfer it to the new shell and cut a new blade for much less than a full replacement cost.
It's not the most ideal solution, but it will get you back on the road if your key broke in half. It's not easy to repair when the key blade is inside the ignition, however. If you are not careful you could make use of a hair clip or a needle to remove the broken piece from the ignition. The best choice is to call a locksmith with special tools for safely removing broken keys from the ignition. You can also have a new key made with the correct cuts for the ignition of your car.
Broken Master Key
If a key is broken inside the lock, you'll need to try to retrieve it before it's completely destroyed. There are a few techniques that you can try, such as using lubricants, tools, needle nose pliers or tweezers to pick up a piece of the broken key and then remove it.
Spray the inside of the lock with WD-40 or a graphite powder. You can also employ the hacksaw blade technique, which involves sliding the blade across the face of a damaged key and grabbing onto some of its teeth. If you're successful then you should be in a position to cut the damaged key.
Another helpful tool is a spiral key extractor, that can be found in many hardware stores. It is a thin flexible rod with spiral threads that can be placed in the keyway, and then bent into the broken part of the key. Once it has been snagged onto the serrations, you can twist it in a circular motion and press it against the broken portion of the key to get it out.
It's worth trying to remove the master key that is broken before calling a professional locksmith. If you're not able to remove the broken piece, you'll need to call a locksmith. A locksmith can make you a new key that will be programmed to the transponder in your car.