How to Repair Car Keys
Car keys might seem small and insignificant, but they are vital for the proper operation of your vehicle. Replacing a traditional key or a transponder key that is modern could cost as much as $200.
There are solutions to fix your car keys yourself for a fraction of the price. This article will discuss the most frequent car keys issues and the DIY solutions to fix them.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
Cars are equipped with a remote key fob that makes opening the doors and trunk easier than ever. However, the battery inside the device can fail. There are a few tricks you can use to resolve this problem quickly.
Check to see if your vehicle is still in ignition mode. If it is, the battery on the key fob could simply be depleted instead of dead. To test this, push the button on the key fob right towards the ignition button. If it works, the battery is probably fine and will only need to be changed.
To replace the battery within the fob, you need to open the case using the screwdriver. Do not apply on front page as this could cause the fob's case to split. If the fob isn't opening open with ease, try placing your pry tool in several places around the outside of the case.
Once the fob is opened then remove the mechanical key, and then open the electronic section of the car. Then insert the replacement battery and then snap the shell back together. If the key fob won't work after this procedure, there could be a more serious problem with the remote start system that requires a professional to diagnose. If this is the case, a trusted mechanic should be able help you. If you require assistance with your car, you can contact roadside assistance.
Broken Key Ring
There are a few things you can do when your key fob does not work because the ring has been broken. First, you should check to see if the damaged piece is still in the ignition. If it is, remove it without damaging the ignition lock or door lock. Contact a locksmith if are having difficulty removing the key. They have specialized tools that are able to safely remove keys that are damaged from the ignition.
A damaged car key could also be caused by corrosion of the plastic frame or circuit board. You can clean the circuit board by using a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol. This will remove corrosion and ensure that the contact pads aren't damaged.
If your key isn't working because the ring broke, you may be able to repair it with a strong wire or nail to plug the hole. Superglue can also be used to repair a broken ring. First, clean the damaged ring with a damp cloth and then apply a small amount of superglue to each end of the nail or wire. Press the pieces together and let them dry before using your vehicle. These DIY solutions might seem appealing, but they're only a temporary solution. It's best to hire an skilled locksmith for any long-term repairs. They have the experience and tools to fix the broken key quickly and efficiently. They can even replace the battery in the 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 buy a new key. This problem isn't nearly as serious as you think at first glance. The most significant issue is that the blade broke off from the case.
Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is a way to repair it. Then, you can use pliers or tweezers to grab the broken end of the key and pull it. If the key is magnetic, you can also try using a magnetic tool to pull it out. Be careful not to use a magnet on an ignition key because it could cause the lock tumbler to break.
If you're unable to take the broken piece of key, call an emergency locksmith. They have the right tools to safely extract keys without causing damage.
You can also apply super glue to repair a snapped key. Apply a small amount glue to the edges of the break and press them together. Wait until the glue has dried before inserting the key into the lock. This method isn't reliable and you might have to repeat the process multiple times before it is successful. Additionally the super glue may not be strong enough to keep the key in place. This is more of a temporary fix than a permanent one.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the loop of plastic on your key fob fails it could make the key useless. It's an simple fix. You can make use of wire or a finishing nail to replace it. Make two holes in the damaged loop of plastic at each end of the nail or wire. Cut the wire or nail into a key width, and place tiny drops of superglue in each hole. Put the nail or wire into the holes to seal them and allow it to dry.
A locksmith who sells replacement shells is a different option. They can transfer the programmable section of your key into the new shell, and cut an entirely new blade at only a fraction of the price.
It's not the best solution, but it can bring you back on the road in case your key broke in half. It's difficult to repair when the key blade is in the ignition however. If you are not careful you could employ a hair clip, or a needle to take the broken piece from the ignition. The best choice is to contact an expert locksmith who has tools for safely removing broken keys from the ignition. You can also request a new key that is made using appropriate cuts to fit the ignition of your vehicle.
Broken Master Key
You'll need to try at regaining the key before it's completely destroyed. You can use tweezers, lubricants, and needle nose pliers for grabbing the broken fragment of a key.
Spray the inside of your lock with WD-40 or a graphite powder. You could also try the hacksaw method, which involves gently 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 helpful tool is a spiral key extractor 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 then bent to reach into the broken part of the key. Once it is firmly anchored to the serrations, you can twist the bar around and then pull it up against the broken part of the key.
It's worth trying to get rid of a broken master key before calling a professional locksmith. If you are unable to get the piece out, it's time to call in the big guns and let a locksmith make you a brand new key and reprogram it using the transponder of your car.