How to Repair Car Keys
The car keys aren't big and might not seem to be important, but they are essential for the proper operation of your car. The cost of replacing an old or modern transponder car keys could be as high as $200.
There are ways to fix your car keys yourself for just a fraction of the cost. This article will discuss the most frequently encountered car key problems 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 before. The battery inside this device is susceptible to dying. There are a few tricks you can use to solve this issue fast.
Check to see if your car is still in the ignition mode. If it is, the battery of the key fob may simply be depleted instead of dead. To test, press the fob's button against the ignition button of the vehicle. If this works, then the battery is probably in good condition and only needs to be changed.
To replace the battery inside the fob, pry open the case with a screwdriver. Be careful not to press too hard since this could cause the fob's to split in two. If the fob doesn't seem to be coming open easily, try wedge your pry tool into several places around the outside of the case.
Once the fob is opened then remove the mechanical key and then open the electronic portion of the car. Then, you can insert the replacement battery and snap the shell back together. If the key fob isn't working after this, there could be a more serious problem with your car's remote start system that requires a professional diagnosis. A reputable mechanic will able help you if this is the situation. You can also contact roadside assistance for assistance with your vehicle if needed.
Broken Key Ring
If your key fob isn't functioning because the ring broke there are a few options you could try. Look to see if can locate the broken piece in the ignition. If it's still there it, remove it without damaging either the ignition lock or the door lock. If you have trouble taking it off, call a locksmith for help. They have tools that are able to safely remove keys that are damaged from the ignition.
Another reason that can lead to a broken car key is the corrosion of the circuit board or frame. You can clean the circuit board using a cotton swab with rubbing alcohol. This will get rid of the corrosion and protect to the contact pads.
Repair a damaged ring by using a thick nail or wire to close the hole. Superglue can be used to fix the broken key ring. After cleaning the ring using a damp cloth, apply a small amount superglue to each end of the wire or nail. Allow the pieces to dry, and then press them in place. These DIY solutions may seem appealing, however they are only temporary solutions. It is recommended to hire an expert locksmith for repairs that last. They have the experience 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
Some key blades can break due to a lot of wear and tear. If this happens, it's time to get a new key. Fortunately, the issue isn't as severe as it might seem at first. The issue is that the metal blade has snapped away from the case.
Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is a method to fix the problem. Then, you can use pliers tweezers, or a pin to grasp the damaged key and take it out. If the key is magnetic, you can also use a magnet to assist in pulling it out. Use a magnet as a aid to you remove the key, but take care to not sever the tumbler of the lock.
Call a locksmith immediately in the event that you are unable to remove the broken piece of the key. They're equipped with special tools to safely extract keys without causing any further damage.
You can also try super glue to fix a broken key. Apply a small amount of the glue to the edges and press them together. Then, wait until the glue has dried before you insert your key into the lock. But this method isn't very reliable and you may have repeat the process several times before it works. Additionally, 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 is damaged it can cause the key to become ineffective. This is a simple fix. You can make use of wire or a nail for finishing to replace it. For each end of the nail or wire make two holes in the loop of plastic. Cut the wire or nail to key width and place a drop of superglue in each hole. Press the wire or nail into the holes until it closes them, and then let it dry.
Another option is to purchase a replacement shell from a locksmith who sells them. They can transfer the programmable section of your key into 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 been cut in half. It's not easy to repair if the key blade is in the ignition, however. You could try using hair clips or a needle extractor tool to pull the broken piece of the ignition, however this is risky if you're not cautious. Call a locksmith with special tools to safely remove broken keys from ignitions. They can also make you new keys that have the proper cuts for your vehicle's ignition and ensure it works correctly when inserted into the lock.
Broken Master Key
You'll need to to retrieve the key before it becomes completely destroyed. You can use tweezers, lubricants, and needle nose pliers for grabbing the fragments of a damaged key.
Spray the inside of your lock with WD-40 or graphite powder. You could also try the hacksaw blade method, which involves carefully moving the blade down the edge of the broken key and hooking onto some of the teeth - if you are able to do this, you will be able to pull out the broken key from the lock.
Another tool that is useful is an extractor for keys spiral, that can be found in many hardware stores. It's a thin and flexible bar with spiral threads which can be inserted into the keyway and bent to get into the broken part of the key. Once it is firmly anchored to the serrations, you can turn the bar in a circle and then pull it up against the broken part of the key.
automotive key repair attempting to remove a master key that's broken prior to calling a professional locksmith. If you're unable to pull an item out, you need to call the big guns - get a locksmith to cut you a brand new key and reprogram it using your car's transponder.