What's Next In Repair Car Keys

How to Repair Car Keys

The car keys are tiny and may not be considered important, but they're vital for the proper operation of your vehicle. Replacing an old key or a transponder key that is modern can cost up to $200.

There are solutions to fix your car keys yourself at less than the cost. This article will cover the most frequently encountered car keys issues and their DIY solutions.

Dead Key Fob Battery

Cars are equipped with remote key fobs that allows opening the doors, trunk and tailgate more convenient than ever. However, the battery inside this device can die. Fortunately, there are some techniques that can be employed to solve this problem in the event of a need.

Check to see if the car is still in the ignition mode. If it is the battery on the key fob could be low rather than dead. To test this, push the button on the key fob right up against the vehicle's ignition button. If it works, the battery is likely fine and only needs to be changed.

To replace the battery in the fob, pry open the case using a screwdriver. Be careful not to apply too much pressure as this could cause the fob to break in two. If the fob isn't coming open easily, try wedge your pry tool into several places around the outside of the case.

Open the electronic compartment of your car once you have removed the mechanical key. Insert the new battery and snap it back into the shell. If your key fob doesn't work after this, it may be that there is a larger problem with the remote starting system in your car. This will require an expert to identify. A reputable mechanic will be capable of helping you in this situation. You can also call roadside assistance for help with your vehicle if needed.

Broken Key Ring

There are a few steps that you can do in the event that your key fob won't function because the ring is broken. First, you should check to see if the broken piece is still in the ignition. If it is, you should 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 tools that allow you to safely remove the damaged key from the ignition.

Another reason for broken car keys is corrosion on the circuit board or plastic frame. You can clean the circuit board using rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. This will get rid of the corrosion and prevent damage to the contact pads.

If your key isn't working because of a broken ring it, you might be able to repair it with a strong wire or nail to close the hole. Superglue can be used to repair the broken key ring. After cleaning the ring with a moist cloth, apply a small amount superglue to each end of the wire or nail. Allow the pieces to dry, and then press them into place. These DIY solutions might seem appealing, but they're only a temporary measure. For long-term repairs, you'll want to hire an experienced locksmith. They have the tools and knowledge to fix a broken car key quickly and effectively. They can replace the battery and reprogram your key fob if necessary.

Broken Key Blade

Some key blades can break because of a lot wear and tear. If this happens, you should probably buy a new one. Fortunately, this issue isn't as severe as it might seem at first. The main issue is that the metal blade has separated from the case.

One solution is to spray the key hole with a lubricant. Then,  car key immobiliser repair  can use pliers pins, or tweezers to grab the end of the broken key and take it out. If the key is magnetic, you could also try using a magnetic tool to assist in pulling it out. Use a magnet to help you remove the key, but be careful to not damage the tumbler of the lock.

Contact a locksmith right away if you are unable to remove the broken part of the key. They have special tools that allow them to safely remove keys without causing damage.

You can also apply super glue to fix a snapped key. Apply a small amount of the glue to the edges and press them together. After that, wait until the glue dries before you insert your key into the lock. However, this method isn't reliable and you may have to repeat the process multiple times before it works. Super glue may not hold the key in place. Therefore, this is more of a stopgap measure than a permanent solution.

Broken Plastic Loop

If the loop of plastic on your key fob breaks it can make the key useless. Fortunately, this is an easy fix. For a replacement alternative, you can opt for an extremely thick wire or a finishing nail. For each end of the nail or wire make two holes in the loop of plastic. Cut the nail or wire to the desired width and then put a drop of superglue on each hole. Press the nail or wire into the holes and let them dry.

Another option is to get a replacement shell from a locksmith that sells them. They can transfer the programmable section of your key into the new shell and cut a brand new blade for a fraction of the cost.

It's not the most ideal solution, but it can bring you back on the road if your key split in half. It's difficult to repair when the blade of the key is in the ignition however. If you're not cautious, you can employ a hair clip, or a needle to take the broken part from the ignition. Call a locksmith with special tools to safely remove broken keys from ignitions. You can also request a new key that is made using the correct cuts to fit the ignition of your vehicle.

Broken Master Key

You'll need to try to retrieve the key before it is completely destroyed. You can employ the tweezers, lubricants and needle nose pliers to grasp the broken fragment of a key.

To start, spray the inside of your lock with a lubricant like graphite powder or WD-40. You can also employ the hacksaw blade technique that involves sliding the blade along the sides of the broken key, and then grasping a few of its  teeth.' If you are successful you will be in a position to take the broken key out.

Many hardware stores offer tools for key extraction that spiral. It is a thin, flexible bar with spiral threads which can be inserted into the keyway and then bent to reach into the broken section of the key. Once it has gotten caught on the serrations, you can twist the bar around and then pull it up against the broken section of the key.

It's worth trying to remove the master key that is broken before calling a professional locksmith. If you're not able to remove the broken piece, you'll need to call a locksmith. Locksmiths can create you an entirely new key that will be programmed using your car transponder.