How to Repair a Dead Car Key
Extreme heat or cold can cause the car to stop functioning. It is best to wait a few minutes before you spend money to replace it.
If your car keys are damaged it can be a major problem. It occurs at the most inconvenient time! There are a variety of ways to fix the broken car key that don't require the purchase of a new key.
Dead Key Fob Battery
Modern key fobs let us to open trunks, doors and tailgates without having search for a key. Some key fobs have a built in key that can be utilized to start our vehicles. However, these devices depend on a small battery that is the power source for their remote functions. If the battery is dead, then the key fob will not be able to transmit the signal needed to turn on the vehicle. There are a variety of ways to repair a dead car key fob.
First, you must find out if your key fob is dead. If car key repair company appears to be dead, you will require replacing the batteries. You can do this yourself by removing the key fob from its clip or using a small flat-head screwdriver to remove it. Be cautious not to put too much pressure on the fob or you may end up damaging the fob. love it is also important to ensure that you're using the right kind of battery. The majority of key fobs utilize three-volt CR2032 batteries, however certain models may require a different type. If you're not sure which kind of battery your car needs, you can usually find the details in your owner's manual or visit an Interstate All Battery Center to have a battery expert help you.
If the key fob isn't actually dead, you can revive it by moving closer to your car. Since most key fobs are RFID (radio-frequency identification) they only work for a short time and need to be within a certain distance for the ignition system to detect the signal. If you move just a few inches closer to your car, it might unlock or even begin to work.
Many car makers have an emergency mechanism that is activated when the key fob battery is dead. Ford for instance has a slot which is dedicated to the key fob. If it is properly inserted, the key fob will activate the engine of the car. You can find instructions in the owner's manual of how to locate the slot and insert the key fob correctly. If you are unable to start your car with this method, be sure to get assistance from roadside assistance.
Broken Key Ring
The chip in the key fob is the one that communicates with your car's immobilizer system to start the engine. If the chip is damaged or if there are programming errors, the key fob will not be able to transmit the correct identification code, and your car will not start. In some instances a malfunctioning transponder key may also be caused by physical damage or wear and tear to the key shell or contact pads.
There are often warning indicators on your dashboard when a keyfob has trouble communicating with the immobilizer system of your vehicle. These include warnings about errors flashing lights, or the key not locking the car. If you notice these warnings contact your local locksmith immediately for a replacement key fob or repair.
It's easy to cause damage to your key ring when you put too excessive pressure on it, especially when carrying multiple keys. This can cause the key fob to snap in half this is one of the most frequent causes of broken car keys. You can apply super glue on both sides of the crack and gently press them together to repair the issue. Use a gel-type of glue that is slow drying to prevent drips or runniness.
If this method doesn't work then you must seek out a professional locksmith as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your vehicle. A locksmith who is certified will be able to replace or repair your key fob swiftly and will also be able to ensure that the ignition lock and door lock do not get damaged in the process.
When your key fob is damaged it can be frustrating and uninviable. However, it is not cause to panic or become annoyed. Instead, you can take proactive steps to minimize the chance of your key fob breaking in the future, including regular maintenance by using key protectors and having an extra key. Quicksmith's staff is on hand to help you if your key fob breaks.
Broken Key Loop
One of my MK5 keyfobs has snapped off the tiny key loop on top where it attaches to the keyfob. It's made of soft metal or plastic. I've made a hole in it, and then wet-sanded the area to strengthen it, but I suspect the problem isn't resolved by that.
I've also wrapped the broken part of the ring in clear tape, but that isn't doing any good. It's a shame, because I use the little split rings to keep my keys in place.
If the key fob's case is damaged, you can often remove it and replace the battery, if it is not already dead. There are online kits to help, but they generally only offer an interim fix. It might be better to take it to a technician who can swap out the battery and reprogram the key fob. You may also be able to find an alternative case at the home improvement store or a locksmith. These cases aren't as costly as an entirely new key fob.