How to Repair Car Keys
Car keys may appear tiny and insignificant, however they are vital to the functioning of your vehicle. Replacing an old key or a transponder key that is modern can cost upwards of $200.
However, there are ways to fix your car keys at home with a fraction of the cost. This article will discuss the most frequently encountered car key problems and the DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Battery
Cars come with remote key fobs that allows opening the doors, trunk and tailgate more convenient than ever. The battery in the device is prone to dying. Fortunately, there are some techniques that can be employed to resolve this issue in the event of a need.
First, determine if the car is still in ignition mode. If it is, the battery of the key fob may be drained instead of dead. To test this, press the button on the key fob up against the vehicle's ignition button. If this works, then the battery is likely fine and only needs to be changed.
To replace the battery inside the fob, pry the case open using an screwdriver. Do not apply too much force as this may cause the fob's casing to split. If the fob isn't coming easily, try putting your pry tool into multiple places on the outside of the case.
Open the electronic part of your car after you have removed the mechanical key. Install the new battery and then snap back the shell. If the key fob doesn't work after this procedure, there could be a bigger problem with your car's remote start system that requires a professional to diagnose. A reputable mechanic will be able help you if this is the situation. You can also reach out to roadside assistance for assistance with your vehicle if needed.
Broken Key Ring
If your key fob won't work because the ring broke, there are a few options you could try. Check to see if you can find the broken piece in the ignition. If it's still there, remove it without damaging the ignition lock or the door lock. If you are having trouble taking it off, call a locksmith for help. They have the right tools to safely remove a damaged or broken key from the ignition.
A damaged car key could be caused by corrosion of the plastic frame or circuit board. You can clean the circuit board using a cotton swab and ruby alcohol. This will eliminate corrosion and ensure that the contact pads don't become damaged.
If your key isn't working because of a broken ring, you may be able fix it with a strong wire or nail to plug the hole. Superglue can also be used to fix a broken ring. After cleaning the ring with a wet cloth, apply a small amount superglue on each end of the nail or wire. Let the pieces dry and then press them in place. These DIY solutions may sound appealing, but they are only a temporary solution. It is best to employ an skilled locksmith for any long-term repairs. They have the expertise and tools to fix a broken key quickly and effectively. They can even replace the battery inside your key fob, and change it's programming if required.
Broken Key Blade
Key blades may break due to a lot of wear and tear. If this happens, you should probably purchase a new one. Luckily, this problem isn't as bad as it might seem at first. The problem is that the blade has broken off from the case.
One method to fix this is spraying the key hole with a lubricant. You can then use pliers or tweezers to grasp the broken end of the key and pull it. You may also employ a magnet in the event that the key is magnetic. Be careful not to use a magnet on an ignition key since it could cause the tumbler in the lock to break.
If you're not able to remove the broken piece of the key, contact a locksmith right away. They have special tools to safely remove keys without causing damage.
You can also use super glue to fix a snapped key. Apply a small amount glue to the edges of the break and press them together. After that, wait until the glue has dried before inserting your key into the lock. This method is not very secure, and you could need to repeat the process several times before it works. Super glue might not be able to hold the key in place. This is more of a temporary solution rather than a permanent one.
Broken Plastic Loop
If your key fob's plastic loop breaks off it could render the key ineffective. Fortunately, this is an simple fix. key repairs can make use of wire or a finishing nail to replace it. Drill two holes into the broken plastic loop for each end of the nail or wire. Cut the wire or nail to key width and place a drop of superglue on each hole. Press the nail or wire into the holes and allow them to dry.
A locksmith who sells replacement shells is another option. They can transfer the programmable portion of your key into the new shell, and then cut an entirely new blade at a fraction of the cost.
This is not the best option, but it can help you get back on the road again if your key broken in half. It's not easy to repair when the blade of the key is inside the ignition, however. You could try using hair clips, a needle or an extractor tool to pull the broken part out of the ignition, however this can be risky if not careful. Get a locksmith equipped with special tools to safely remove damaged keys from ignitions. You can also request a new key that is made using appropriate cuts for the ignition of your vehicle.
Broken Master Key
You'll need to to retrieve the key before it's completely destroyed. There are a few techniques you can use, including using lubricants as well as tools such as needle nose pliers or tweezers to take a small piece of the key that has been broken and then remove it.
Spray the inside of the lock with WD-40 or graphite powder. You can also try the hacksaw blade method, 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 take the broken key out.
Another useful tool is an extractor for keys spiral, that is available in a wide range of hardware stores. It is a thin, flexible bar with spiral threads, that can be inserted into the keyway, and then bent to get into the damaged section of the key. Once it has hooked onto the serrations, you can twist it in a circular motion and lever it against the broken part of the key to pull it out.
It's worth trying to remove the master key that is broken before calling a professional locksmith. If you can't get an item out, you need to call the big guns - get a locksmith to cut you a brand new key and reprogram it using the transponder of your car.