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 a traditional or a transponder key that is modern could cost as much as $200.
There are methods to fix your car keys at home for a fraction of the cost. This article will cover the most frequently encountered car key problems and their DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Battery
The remote key fobs that come with cars make it easier than ever to open the trunk, doors and tailgate. The battery in this device is prone to dying. However, there are a few tricks you can employ to solve this problem in a pinch.
Check to see if your car is still in the ignition mode. If it is, then the key fob battery may simply be low instead of 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 probably working fine and just requires to be replaced.
To replace the battery inside the fob, you need to open the case with a screwdriver. Don't apply too much force as this may cause the fob's case to split. If the fob doesn't open try prying the tool several times 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 then snap back the shell. If the key fob doesn't work after this, there may be a more serious problem with the remote start system that requires a professional to diagnose. A trusted mechanic will be able help you in this situation. If remote key fob repair require assistance with your vehicle or vehicle, you can get roadside assistance.
Broken Key Ring
There are a few things that you can do when your key fob does not work because the ring has been broken. The first step is to see if your broken piece is still inside the ignition. If it's still inside the ignition, take it out without damaging either the ignition lock or the door lock. Call a locksmith if you are having trouble removing the key. They have special tools that are able to safely remove the damaged key from the ignition.
A broken car key can also be the result of corrosion of the plastic frame or circuit board. You can clean the circuit board by using a cotton swab soaked in ruby alcohol. This will remove the corrosion and protect to the contact pads.
You can fix a broken rings by using a thick wire or nail to seal the hole. Superglue can be used to fix damaged key rings. First, clean the damaged ring with a damp towel and then apply a small amount superglue on each end of the nail or wire. Press the pieces together and let them dry prior to using your vehicle. These DIY solutions might appear appealing, but they're really just a stopgap measure. For long-term repairs, it's best to get a professional locksmith. They have the tools and knowledge to repair a damaged car key quickly and efficiently. They can even replace the battery in your key fob and reprogram it if needed.
Broken Key Blade
Key blades can break due to wear and tear. If this happens, it's probably time to purchase a new key. Fortunately, the issue isn't as severe as it appears at first. The primary problem is that the blade has separated from the case.
Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is a solution to fix the problem. Then you can use pliers pins, or tweezers to grab the damaged key and pull it out. If the key is magnetic, you could also use a magnet to assist in pulling it out. Be careful not to use a magnet on an ignition key because it could cause the tumbler of the lock to break.
If you are unable to remove the broken piece from the key, call a locksmith right away. They're equipped with special tools that can safely remove keys without causing damage.
You can also try super glue to repair a snapped key. Apply a small amount to the edges and press them together. Wait until car key immobiliser repair has dried before inserting the key into the lock. This method isn't extremely reliable, and you may need to repeat the process several times before it is successful. Super glue may not hold the key in place. This is more of a temporary solution rather than a permanent solution.
Broken Plastic Loop
If your key fob's plastic loop gets damaged it could render the key useless. This is a relatively easy fix. To replace it alternative, you can use a thick wire or finishing nail. For each end of the wire or nail, drill two holes into the plastic loop. Cut the nail or wire to key width and place a drop of superglue in each hole. Press the wire or nail into the holes to close them and allow it to dry.
A locksmith who sells replacement shells is a different option. They can take the programmable portion of your key, then transfer it to the new shell and cut the new blade for less than a complete replacement cost.
It's not the best solution, but it'll bring you back on the road if your key split in half. It can be difficult to repair the key blade if it is in the ignition. You can try using a hair clip, a needle or an extractor tool to remove the damaged part out of the ignition, but this can be risky if not cautious. Contact a locksmith who has special tools to safely remove broken keys from ignitions. They can also create new keys that have the appropriate cuts for the ignition of your vehicle to ensure that it functions correctly when inserted into the lock.
Broken Master Key
If a key breaks inside the lock, you'll need to attempt to retrieve it before it gets completely destroyed. There are several methods you can employ, such as using lubricants, tools, needle nose pliers or tweezers to grab a fragment of the key that has been broken and then remove it.
Spray the inside of the lock with WD-40 or graphite powder. You can also try the hacksaw blade method which involves carefully moving the blade down the side of the broken key, and attaching it to the 'teeth'. If you are able to do this, you will be able to remove the broken key from the lock.
Many hardware stores sell tools for key extraction that spiral. It's a thin and flexible bar with spiral threads which can be inserted into the keyway and bent to dig into the damaged section of the key. Once it has caught onto 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 remove a master key that's broken prior to calling a professional locksmith. If you are unable to get a piece out, you need to call the big guns - have a locksmith cut you a brand new key and reprogram it using the transponder in your car.