Repair Car Keys: 11 Thing You're Forgetting To Do

How to Repair Car Keys Car keys may appear tiny and insignificant, but they are vital to the functioning of your vehicle. The cost of replacing a traditional or contemporary transponder car key could be as high as $200. There are methods to repair your car keys at home with less than. This article will cover the most frequently encountered car keys problems and their DIY solutions. Dead Key Fob Battery Cars come with remote key fobs that allows opening the doors and trunk easier than ever before. However, the battery in this device can die. However, there are some tricks that can be used to fix this issue in a pinch. First, make sure that the car is in ignition mode. If it is the battery of the key fob might be low instead of dead. To test this, push the button on the key fob right up against the vehicle's ignition button. If this works, then the battery is likely fine and only needs to be replaced. To replace the fob's battery, start by prying open the case with an instrument like a screwdriver, or watch-type tool. Do not apply too much force since this may cause the fob's case to split. If the fob won't open try prying the tool more than once around the outside of case. Once the fob is open take out the mechanical key and open the electronic portion of the car. Install the new battery and snap back the shell. If the key fob won't work after this, there could be a larger problem with your car's remote start system that requires a professional to diagnose. car key repairs trusted mechanic will be capable of helping you in this situation. You can also contact roadside assistance for help with your vehicle, if you require it. Broken Key Ring There are a few things you can do in the event that your key fob won't function because the ring is broken. Check to see if you can locate the broken part inside the ignition. If her latest blog is, remove it without damaging the lock on the ignition or door lock. Call a locksmith if you have difficulty taking the key off. They have specialized tools that can safely remove a damaged key from the ignition. Another reason that can lead to broken car keys is the corrosion of the circuit board or plastic frame. It is possible to clean the board with the help of rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. This will eliminate corrosion and ensure the contact pads don't become damaged. Repair a damaged ring by using a thick nail or wire to close the hole. Superglue can be used to repair the broken key ring. First, clean the broken ring with a damp towel and then apply a small amount superglue to the ends of the wire or nail. Then, press the pieces together and allow them to dry before using your car. These DIY solutions might appear appealing, but they're really just an interim measure. For long-term repairs, it's recommended to work with an expert locksmith. They have the expertise and tools to repair the broken key quickly and efficiently. They can replace the battery and reprogram the key fob, if needed. Broken Key Blade Key blades may break due to a lot of wear and tear. If this happens, it's time to get a new key. Luckily, this problem isn't as bad as it appears at first. The main problem is that the metal blade has separated from the case. One way to fix this is spraying the key hole with fluid that lubricates the key hole. Then you can use pliers tweezers, or a pin to grab the broken end of the key and take it out. You may also employ a magnet in the event that the key is magnetic. Be cautious not to use a magnetic tool on an ignition key as it could cause the tumbler in the lock to break. If you're not able to get the broken piece from the key, contact a locksmith right away. They have special tools that permit them to safely remove keys without causing further damage. You can also apply super glue to fix a broken key. Apply a small amount of the glue to the edges and press them together. Wait until the glue is dry before you insert your key into the lock. But this method isn't very secure and you may need to repeat the process multiple times before it works. Super glue may not be able to hold the key in place. This is more of a stopgap measure rather than a permanent solution. Broken Plastic Loop If the loop of plastic on your key fob breaks it can make the key useless. This is a relatively easy fix. For a replacement alternative, you can use a thick wire or finishing nail. Drill two holes into the plastic loop that is broken at each end of the wire or nail. Cut the wire or nail into a key width, and place a small drop of superglue in each hole. Press the wire or nail into the holes to close them, and then let it dry. Another option is to purchase the replacement shell from a locksmith that sells them. They can transfer the programmable part of your key to the new shell, and cut new blades for a fraction of the cost. This is not the best solution, but will help you get back on the road again if your key has split in half. However, it could be difficult to repair the key blade if it is in the ignition. You can try using a hair clip, a needle or an extractor tool to remove the damaged part out of the ignition, but this is risky if you're not cautious. The best option is to call a locksmith with special tools to safely remove broken keys from the ignition. You can also get a new key that is made using the proper cuts for the ignition of your vehicle. Broken Master Key If a key gets damaged inside the lock, you'll need to find it before it's completely destroyed. You can make use of the tweezers, lubricants and needle nose pliers to grasp the fragment of a broken key. To begin, spray the interior of your lock with a lubricant like graphite powder or WD-40. You can also employ the hacksaw blade method, which involves 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 take the broken key out. Many hardware stores sell a spiral key extraction tool. This has a thin flexible bar with spiral threads, which can be inserted into the keyway and then bent to dig into the broken part of the key. Once it is firmly anchored to the serrations, you can twist the bar into a circle and then pull it up against the broken part of the key. It's worth trying to get rid of a broken master key before calling a professional locksmith. If you're unable to get rid of the broken piece, you'll need to contact a professional locksmith. A locksmith can make you an entirely new key that will be programmed using the transponder in your car.