Repair Car Keys: 11 Thing You're Leaving Out

How to Repair Car Keys

The car keys aren't big and might not seem to be important, but they're vital to the functioning of your car. Replacing a traditional key or a transponder one can cost upwards of $200.

There are methods to fix your car keys at home with less than. This article will go over some of the most frequent car key problems and their DIY solutions.

Dead Key Fob Batteries

Cars come with remote key fobs that allows opening the doors, trunk and tailgate easier than ever before. However, the battery in the device could die. There are a few tricks you can use to resolve this issue fast.

First, make sure that the car is still in ignition mode. If it is, then the battery on the key fob could simply be low instead of dead. To test this, push the button on the key fob right towards the ignition button. If this works, then the battery is probably working fine and only needs to be replaced.

To replace the battery within the fob, open the case with the screwdriver. Be cautious not to press too hard as this could cause the fob's to split in two. If the fob won't open Try using your pry tool more than once around the outside of the case.

Once the fob is opened take out the mechanical key, and then open the electronic part of the car. Then, insert the battery replacement and then snap the shell back together. If the key fob doesn't work after this, there may be a bigger issue with your car's remote start system that requires a professional diagnosis. If this is the case, a reliable mechanic should be able to help you. If you need help with your car or vehicle, you can get roadside assistance.

Broken Key Ring

There are a few steps that you can do when your key fob does not function because the ring is broken. Check to see if you can locate the broken piece within the ignition. If it is, you should remove it without damaging the lock on the ignition or door lock. If you are having trouble taking it off, call a locksmith for help. They have tools that allow you to safely remove keys that are damaged from the ignition.

Another reason for the car key breaking is the corrosion of the circuit board or plastic frame. You can clean the circuit board using a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol. This will remove any corrosion and ensure the contact pads don't get damaged.

If your key isn't working because the ring is broken it, you might be able fix it by using a thick wire or nail to close the hole. You can also use superglue to repair a broken ring. First, clean the damaged ring with a damp towel and then apply a small amount of superglue to the ends of the nail or wire. Press the pieces together and let them dry prior to using your vehicle. These DIY solutions might seem appealing, but they're only an interim measure. It is recommended to hire an expert locksmith for repairs that last.  key fob repairs  have the expertise and tools to fix a broken key quickly and efficiently. They can even replace the battery on your key fob, and modify it if necessary.

Broken Key Blade

Some key blades can break because of a lot wear and tear. If this occurs, you must purchase a new one. Luckily, this problem isn't as serious as it may appear at first. The main problem is that the metal blade snapped off the case.

Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is one solution to fix it. Then, you can make use of pliers or tweezers grab the broken end of the key and pull it. You may also employ a magnet in the event that the key is magnetic. Use a magnet to help you remove the key, but be careful to not damage the lock tumbler.

If you are unable to take the broken piece of key, contact an expert locksmith immediately. They're equipped with special tools that let them safely remove keys without causing damage.

Super glue can be used to fix a snapped lock. Apply a small amount glue to the edges of the break and press them together. Then, wait until the glue dries before inserting your key into the lock. This method isn't reliable and you may have to repeat the process multiple times before it's successful. Additionally the super glue might not be strong enough to keep the key in place. This is more of a temporary solution than a permanent one.

Broken Plastic Loop

If the plastic loop on your key fob breaks it can render the key useless. It's a fairly simple fix. You can use wire or a nail for finishing to replace it. Make two holes in the damaged loop of plastic at each end of the wire or nail. Cut the nail or wire to key width and place the superglue drop in each hole. Press the wire or nail into the holes to close them and allow it to dry.

Another option is to get the replacement shell from a locksmith that sells them. They can remove the programmable component of your key, move it to the new shell, and cut the new blade for less than a complete replacement cost.

It's not the ideal solution, but it will help you get back on the road if your key broke in half. It's not easy to fix if the key blade is in the ignition, however. You could try using a hair clip or a needle extractor tool to pull the broken piece of the ignition, however it's risky if not cautious. The best choice is to contact a locksmith who has special tools to safely remove broken keys from the ignition. They can also design new keys with the appropriate cuts for your vehicle's ignition and ensure it works perfectly when it is put into the lock.

Broken Master Key

If a key is broken inside the lock, you'll have to attempt to retrieve it before it gets completely destroyed. You can employ the tweezers, lubricants and needle nose pliers to grab the fragment of a broken key.

Spray the inside of your lock with WD-40 or graphite powder. You may also try the hacksaw blade method which involves gently sliding the blade along the side of the broken key, and attaching it to the 'teeth'. If you are able to do this you should be able to remove the broken key from the lock.

Many hardware stores carry a spiral key extraction tool. It is a thin rod with spiral threads that can be placed in the keyway, and then bent to form the broken part of the key. Once it has hooked onto the serrations, it is possible to twist it in a circular motion, and lever it against the broken part of the key to get it out.

Before contacting a locksmith, try to remove the broken master key before calling a locksmith. If you are unable to get an item out, it's time to call the big guns - have a locksmith make you a brand new key and reprogram it using your car's transponder.