How to Repair Car Keys
The car keys aren't big and might not seem to be important, but they are essential for the operation of your vehicle. Replacing an old key or a transponder key that is modern could cost as much as $200.
However, there are ways to fix your car keys at home with a fraction of the cost. This article will address the most frequently encountered car keys problems and their DIY fixes.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
Cars come with remote key fobs that makes opening the doors, trunk and tailgate easier than ever. The battery inside this device is susceptible to dying. There are some tricks you can use to resolve this problem quickly.
Check to see if the vehicle is still in ignition mode. If so the battery of the key fob might be low instead of dead. To test, press the button on the fob against the ignition button of the vehicle. If this is successful, the battery is likely fine and needs to be replaced.
To replace the battery in the fob, the case open using the screwdriver. Don't apply too much force, as this could cause the fob's casing to split. If the fob won't open try prying the tool several times around the outside of the case.
Open the electronic compartment of your car after you have removed the mechanical key. Then, you can insert the replacement battery and then snap the shell together. If the key fob does not work after this, it could be due to an problem with the remote starting system in your car. This requires an expert to determine the cause. A trusted mechanic will be in a position to assist you in this situation. You can also reach out to roadside assistance for assistance with your vehicle, if you require it.
Broken Key Ring
There are a few steps you can do if your key fob doesn't work because the ring is broken. Check to see if you can find the broken piece within the ignition. If it is, remove it without damaging the ignition lock or door lock. Contact a locksmith if have difficulty removing the key. They have special tools that are able to safely remove a damaged key from the ignition.
A damaged car key could also be caused by corrosion of the plastic frame or circuit board. It is possible to clean the board with cotton swab. This will eliminate corrosion and ensure the contact pads aren't damaged.
If your key won't start because of a broken ring, you may be able to repair it by using a thick wire or nail to seal the hole. Superglue can be used to fix damaged key rings. After cleaning key fob repairs with a wet cloth Apply a small amount superglue to the ends of the nail or wire. Apply the glue to the ring and allow them to dry before using your car. These DIY solutions can seem appealing, but they're really just an interim measure. It is recommended to hire an expert locksmith for repairs that last. They have the tools and expertise to fix a broken car key quickly and effectively. They can even replace the battery inside your key fob and change it's programming if required.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades may break due to wear and tear. If this happens, it's probably time to purchase a new key. The issue isn't as serious as you might think at first glance. The main problem is that the blade broke off from the case.
One solution is spraying the key hole with a oil-based lubricant. You can then employ pliers or tweezers grab the broken end of the key and pull it. You can also employ a magnet in the event that the key is magnetic. Use a magnet to assist you remove the key, but be cautious to not sever the lock tumbler.
Contact a locksmith immediately if you are unable to take out the damaged part of the key. They're equipped with special tools that can safely remove keys without causing further damage.
Super glue can be used to fix an open lock that has snapped. Apply a small amount of glue to the edges and press them together. Then, wait until the glue is dry before inserting your key into the lock. However, this method isn't secure and you may need to repeat the process multiple times before it's successful. Plus, the super glue may not be enough strong to hold the key together. This is more of a temporary fix than a permanent one.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the plastic loop on your key fob breaks, it can make the key ineffective. This is a simple fix. As a replacement alternative, you can opt for wire that is thick or a finishing nail. Drill two holes in the damaged loop of plastic at each end of the nail or wire. Cut the wire or nail to the desired width and then place a drop of superglue on each hole. Apply the nail or wire into the holes and let them dry.
A locksmith who sells replacement shells is another option. They can take the programmable component of your key, move it to the new shell and cut the new blade for less than the full replacement cost.
It's not the best solution, but it will bring you 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 part of the ignition, however this can be risky if not careful. The best option is to contact a locksmith with special tools for safely removing damaged keys from the ignition. They can also design new keys that have the correct cuts for your ignition, so it will work perfectly when it is put into the lock.
Broken Master Key
If a key is broken inside the lock, you'll have to attempt to retrieve it before it gets completely destroyed. You can employ the tweezers, lubricants and needle nose pliers to grasp the fragment of a broken key.
To start, spray the inside of your lock with a lubricant such as graphite powder or WD-40. You could also try the hacksaw blade method, that involves carefully moving the blade down the side of the broken key, and attaching it to the 'teeth' - if you succeed in doing this, you will be able to remove the broken key from the lock.
Another tool that is useful is a spiral key extractor, which you can find in a wide range of hardware stores. This tool is a thin flexible rod with spiral threads that can be inserted into the keyway, and later bent to form 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.
Before calling a locksmith, attempt to take out the damaged master key before calling a locksmith. If you can't get the piece out, you need to call the big guns and get a locksmith to make you a brand new key and reprogram it using the transponder in your car.