10 Things We All Hate About Repair Car Keys

How to Repair Car Keys

Car keys may seem small and insignificant, but they are essential to the functioning of your vehicle. The cost of replacing an old or modern transponder car key can range from $200 to upwards of $200.

However, there are ways to fix your car keys at home with a fraction of the cost. This article will go over the most frequently encountered car keys issues and their DIY solutions.

Dead Key Fob Battery

Cars are equipped with remote key fobs that makes opening the doors and trunk easier than ever. However, the battery in the device could die. However, there are a few techniques that can be employed to fix this issue in an emergency.

First, determine if the car is still in ignition mode. If it is, the battery of the key fob may be drained instead of dead. To test this, push the button on the key fob straight against the ignition button. If this does not work, the battery is probably in good condition and needs to be replaced.

To replace the battery inside the fob, you need to open the case using an screwdriver. Do not apply too much force as this may cause the fob's casing to split. If the fob doesn't open Try using your pry tool several times around the outside of the case.

After the fob has been opened take out the mechanical key and then open the electronic part of the car. Insert the new battery and then snap back the shell. If the key fob isn't working after this, it could be that there is a larger problem with the remote start system of your vehicle. This requires a professional to diagnose. If this is the case, a reliable mechanic should be able to assist you. You can also contact roadside assistance for assistance with your vehicle, if you require it.

Broken Key Ring

If your key fob isn't functioning because the ring broke, there are a few options you can try. Look to see if can locate the broken part in the ignition. If it's still inside, remove it 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 allow you to safely remove keys that are damaged from the ignition.

Another reason for broken car keys is corrosion on the circuit board or frame. You can clean the board with rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. This will remove the corrosion and prevent damage to the contact pads.

If your key won't start because the ring is broken it, you might be able to repair it by using a thick wire or nail to plug the hole. Superglue can be used to fix damaged key rings. After cleaning the ring with a wet cloth, apply a small amount superglue to each end of the wire or nail. Press the pieces together and let them dry prior to using your vehicle. These DIY solutions can seem appealing, but they're just temporary solutions. For  car key and repair -term repairs, it's best to work with a professional locksmith. They have the expertise and tools to fix a broken key quickly and efficiently. They can replace the battery and reprogram the key fob if necessary.

Broken Key Blade

Key blades may break from a lot of wear and tear. If this occurs, you ought to buy a new one. Luckily, this problem isn't as bad as it appears at first. The most significant issue is that the metal blade broke off from the case.

Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is a solution to fix the problem. Then you can use pliers tweezers, or a pin to grasp the damaged key and take it out. You could also use a magnet if the key is magnetic. Be careful not to use a magnetic tool on an ignition key as it could cause the tumbler in the lock to break.

Call a locksmith immediately if you are unable to remove the broken piece of the key. They're equipped with special tools that let them safely remove keys without causing further damage.

You can also apply super glue to fix a broken key. Apply a small amount of glue to the edges of the crack and press them together. Wait until the glue dries before you insert your key into the lock. This method isn't very reliable, and you may have to repeat it a few times before it works. Additionally the super glue might not be strong enough to keep the key in place. Therefore, this is more of a stopgap measure rather than an option that can last.

Broken Plastic Loop

If the plastic loop on your key fob fails it could render the key ineffective. It's a fairly simple fix. You can use wire or a finishing nail as a replacement. Drill two holes in the damaged loop of plastic at each end of the nail or wire. Cut the wire or nail to the desired width, and then place a small drop of superglue in each hole. Press the wire or nail into the holes until it closes them and let it dry.

Another option is to purchase a replacement shell from a locksmith who sells them. They can take the programmable component of your key, transfer it to the new shell and cut a new blade for much less than a complete replacement cost.

It's not the best solution, but it will get you back on the road in case your key broke in half. It can be difficult to fix when the blade of the key is in the ignition however. If you are not careful you can make use of a hair clip or a needle to remove the broken part from the ignition. Call a locksmith with special tools to safely remove damaged keys from ignitions. They can also make you a new key with the correct cuts for your vehicle's ignition to ensure that it functions correctly when inserted into the lock.

Broken Master Key

You'll have to attempt to retrieve the key before it's completely destroyed. There are a variety of methods you can use, including using lubricants, tools, needle nose pliers or tweezers to grab a fragment of the damaged key and remove it.

Spray the inside of your lock with WD-40 or graphite powder. You can also use hacksaw blades that involves moving the blade along the sides of the broken key, and grabbing onto some of its 'teeth. If you're successful, you should be able to remove the broken key.

Many hardware stores carry a spiral key extraction tool. It's a thin and flexible bar with spiral threads, which can be inserted into the keyway, and then bent to dig into the broken part of the key. Once it has caught onto the serrations, you can turn the bar around and then pull it up against the broken section of the key.

It's worth trying to get rid of a master key that's broken prior to calling a professional locksmith. If you're unable to pull an item out, it's time to call in the big guns - let a locksmith cut you a new key and reprogram it with the transponder in your car.