How to Repair Car Keys

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

However, there are ways to repair your car keys at home for only a fraction of the cost. This article will go over the most frequently encountered car key problems and their DIY solutions.

Dead Key Fob Battery

Cars are equipped with a remote key fob which makes opening doors and trunk easier than ever before. The battery inside this 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, check if the car is in ignition mode. If so the battery of the key fob may be low, but not dead. To test this, press the button on the key fob straight against the ignition button. If it does not work, the battery is probably fine and only requires to be replaced.

To replace the fob battery, begin by prying open the case with an instrument like a screwdriver, or watch-type tool. Be careful not to apply too much force, as this may cause the fob's case split. If the fob isn't opening open easily, try wedge your pry tool in several places on the outside of the case.

Once the fob is opened, remove the mechanical key and then open the electronic part of the car. Then, you can insert the replacement battery and snap the shell back together. If your key fob isn't working after this, it may be due to an problem with the remote start system of your car. This will require an expert to identify. If this is the case, a reliable mechanic should be able assist you. If you require assistance with your vehicle or vehicle, you can get roadside assistance.

Broken Key Ring

There are a few options that you can do in the event that your key fob won't function because the ring is broken. Examine if you can find the broken piece within the ignition. If it is, remove it without damaging the door lock or ignition lock key repair near me. If you are having trouble taking it off, call an expert locksmith. They have tools that can safely remove a damaged or broken key from the ignition.

Another reason that can lead to the car key breaking is the corrosion of the circuit board or frame. You can clean the circuit board by using a cotton swab and ruby alcohol. This will remove the corrosion and prevent damage to the contact pads.

If your key isn't working because the ring broke, you may be able fix it using a sturdy wire or nail to close the hole. Superglue can be used to fix a broken key ring. First, clean the broken ring with a damp cloth and then apply a small amount superglue to the ends of the nail or wire. Then, press the pieces together and let them dry prior to using your vehicle. These DIY solutions might look appealing, but they're really just an interim measure. It is best to employ an expert locksmith for repairs that last. They have the expertise 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 break because of a lot wear and tear. If this occurs, you must buy a new blade. This problem isn't nearly as serious as you think at first glance. The main problem is that the metal blade broke off from the case.

Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is one solution to keyless entry repair it. Then, you can use pliers or tweezers to grasp the broken end of the key and pull it. You can 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 tumbler of the lock.

If you are unable to get the broken piece from the key, contact an emergency locksmith. They have the right tools that can safely remove keys without causing damage.

You can also use super glue to keyless entry repair a snapped key. Apply a small amount of the glue to the edges and press them in. After that, wait until the glue has dried before inserting your key into the lock. However, this method isn't secure and you may need to repeat the process a few times before it is successful. Additionally the super glue may not be enough strong to keep the key in place. This is more of a temporary solution rather than an option that is permanent.

Broken Plastic Loop

If the plastic loop on your key fob is damaged it could make the key useless. It's a fairly simple fix. To replace it, you can use wire that is thick or a finishing nail. For each end of the wire or nail you need to drill two holes into the plastic loop. Cut the nail or wire to the desired width and then place the superglue drop in each hole. Press the nail or wire into the holes and allow them to dry.

Another option is to get the replacement shell from a locksmith who sells them. They can transfer the programmable part of your key to the new shell, and then cut an entirely new blade at less than the cost.

This isn't the best solution, but it will allow you to travel again if your key split in half. It can be difficult to fix the key blade if it's in the ignition. You could try using a hair clip or a needle extractor tool to remove the damaged part out of the ignition, however it's risky if not careful. The best choice is to call a locksmith who has special tools for safely removing broken keys from the ignition. You can also get a new key that is made using the proper cuts to fit the ignition of your vehicle.

Broken Master Key

If a key breaks inside the lock, you'll need to try to retrieve it before it is completely destroyed. You can employ the 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 can also try the hacksaw blade method, that involves carefully moving the blade down the edge of the broken key, and connecting to a few of the 'teeth' - if you succeed in doing this you should be able take the broken key from the lock.

Many hardware stores carry tools for key extraction that spiral. This has a thin flexible bar with spiral threads that can be inserted into the keyway and then bent to reach into 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 portion of the key to get it out.

It's worth attempting to remove a master key that's broken prior to calling an expert locksmith. If you can't get the piece out, it's time to call in the big guns - let a locksmith make you a brand new key and reprogram it with the transponder in your car.