How to Repair a Dead Car Key
Sometimes extreme heat or cold can cause the car key to stop working properly. Take a moment before replacing it.
It's a major pain when the keys to your car break and it happens at the most difficult times! There are a variety of ways to fix a broken car key that won't require the purchase of a new key.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
Modern key fobs let us to open doors, trunks and tailgates, without having to fumble around to find a physical key. Certain key fobs come with an integrated key that can be used to start our vehicles. However, these key fobs depend on a tiny battery that provides power to their remote functions. If the battery is dead, then the key fob will not be able to transmit the signal to activate the vehicle. Fortunately, there are many ways you can repair the problem and get your car functioning again.
First, try to find out if your key fob is dead. If it appears to be dead, you will require replacing the batteries. You can do this yourself by taking the key fob off its clip or using a small flat-head screwdriver to remove it. You should not use too much force or it could cause damage to the fob. You should also make sure that you're using the correct type of battery. Some models might require a different type of battery. You can determine what kind of battery your car requires in the owner's manual, or visit an Interstate All Battery Center and get a specialist in battery care to assist you.
You may be able to revive a key fob that isn't dead by moving it closer to the car. The majority of key fobs employ RFID (radio frequency identification) that only operates at a short distance. The ignition system needs to be able to detect the signal. If you can move just a few inches closer to your vehicle, it could unlock or even start.
Many car makers have an emergency mechanism that is activated when the battery for the key fob is dead. For example, most Ford models have a separate slot for the key fob which will turn on the engine if inserted correctly. Refer to the owner's manual for instructions on finding this slot and how to properly insert the key fob. If you are unable to start the car using this method, contact roadside assistance.
Broken Key Ring
The chip inside the key fob is the one that communicates with the car's immobilizer system in order to start the engine. If the chip is damaged or there are programming errors, the key will not be able to send the correct identification code, and your car won't start. A malfunctioning transponder could be caused by physical damage to the key shell, or wear and wear on the contact pads.
Often, when the key fob begins to struggle with the vehicle's immobilizer system there will be specific warning indicators on your dashboard. These include errors flashing lights, or the key is not locking the vehicle. If you are noticing these warnings contact your local locksmith immediately for key fob replacement or repair.
If you carry a lot of keys, it's easy to break your key ring. This could cause the fob to crack in half. This is one of the most common causes of a broken car keys. You can apply super glue on both sides of the crack and gently press them together to fix the issue. It is crucial to apply a gel-type adhesive that is slow drying to avoid drips or runniness.
If this method doesn't work, it is important to contact a professional locksmith as soon as possible to prevent any further damage to your vehicle. A locksmith who is certified can replace or repair your fob swiftly and make sure that the ignition and door locks are not damaged during the process.
It can be a bit frustrating when your key fob gets damaged. However, it's not cause to panic or be frustrated. Instead you can take proactive measures to reduce the risk of your key fob breaking in the future, including regular maintenance including key protectors, and having a spare key. If you do encounter an issue with your key fob the team at Quicksmith is ready to help!
remote key repair of my MK5 keyfobs is broken off the little key ring loop at the top of the loop where it joins the keyfob. It's made of plastic or soft metal. I've made a hole, then wet-sanded the area to make it more durable. But I'm guessing that's not helping.
I've also attempted to wrap the broken ring with clear tape but it didn't work much better. This is a pity, as I use the tiny split ring to keep my keys in the right place.
If the case for the key fob is damaged It's usually possible to open up the case and replace the battery (assuming the battery isn't dead). There are kits online for this, however they typically only provide temporary fixes - it may be faster to take it to a technician who will swap out the battery and reprogram the key fob. Alternatively, you might be able to locate the replacement case at the home improvement store or a locksmith. key fob repairs are not likely to be as costly as a new key fob.