Repair Car Keys Explained In Less Than 140 Characters

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 key or a transponder one could cost as much as $200.

There are methods to fix your car keys at home with a fraction of the cost. This article will discuss the most frequent car keys problems and their DIY fixes.

Dead Key Fob Batteries

The remote key fobs for keys that come with cars make it simpler than ever to open the trunk, doors and the tailgate. The battery in the device is prone to dying. There are some tricks you can use to resolve this issue quickly.

Examine if your vehicle is still in ignition mode. If so, the key fob's battery could be low rather than dead. To test this, press the button on the fob against the ignition button on the vehicle. If this works, then the battery is probably in good condition and needs to be replaced.

To replace the fob's battery, begin by prying the case open using the help of a screwdriver or watch-type device. Be careful not to apply too much pressure because this could cause the fob to split apart. If the fob doesn't open Try using your pry tool several times around the outside of the case.

Once the fob is open, remove the mechanical key, and then open the electronic part of the car. Then insert the replacement battery and snap the shell back together. If the key fob isn't working after this, there may be a bigger problem with the remote start system that requires a professional to diagnose. If this is the case, a reliable mechanic should be able to assist you. You can also call roadside assistance for help with your vehicle if needed.

Broken Key Ring

There are a few steps that you can do if your key fob doesn't work because the ring has been broken. Look to see if can locate the broken part within the ignition. If it is, remove it without damaging the ignition lock or door lock. Contact a locksmith if are having trouble removing the key. They have special tools to safely remove a damaged or broken key from the ignition.

Another reason for broken car keys is corrosion on the circuit board or plastic frame. You can clean the circuit board using a cotton swab with ruby alcohol. This will remove corrosion and ensure the contact pads aren't damaged.

You can fix a broken ring using a strong nail or wire to close the hole. You can also use superglue to repair a broken ring. After cleaning  car key and repair  with a moist cloth Apply a small amount superglue on each end of the wire or nail. Apply the glue to the ring and let them dry before using your car. These DIY solutions can seem appealing, but they're really just temporary solutions. It is best to employ an skilled locksmith for any long-term repairs. They have the tools and knowledge to repair a damaged car key quickly and efficiently. They can even replace the battery on your key fob, and modify it if necessary.

Broken Key Blade

Key blades can break due to wear and tear. If this happens, it's probably time to buy a new key. Luckily, this problem isn't as serious as it may appear at first. The problem is that the blade has separated from the case.

Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is one way to fix the problem. Then, you can use pliers tweezers, or a pin to grasp the damaged key and pull it out. If the key is magnetic, you could also try using a magnet to assist in pulling it out. Use a magnet as a aid to you remove the key, but be cautious to not damage the lock tumbler.

Contact a locksmith right away when you are unable take out the damaged part of the key. They have the right tools that can safely remove keys without causing further damage.

You can also try super glue to fix a broken key. Apply a small amount to the edges and press them in. Wait until the glue is dry before inserting the key into the lock. This method isn't reliable and you may have to repeat the process a few times before it works. Super glue may not be able to hold the key together. This is more of a temporary solution rather than a permanent solution.

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 thick wire or a nail for finishing to replace it. For each end of the wire or nail, drill two holes into the loop of plastic. Cut the nail or wire to key width and place a drop of superglue on each hole. Then, press the wire or nail into the holes to seal them and allow it to dry.

A locksmith who sells replacement shells is an alternative option. They can take the programmable portion of your key, move it to the new shell and cut the new blade for less than a complete replacement cost.

This is not the best solution, but it will help you get back on the road again if your key has been cut in half. However, it could be difficult to fix the key blade if it's in the ignition. If you're not cautious you can employ a hair clip, or a needle to take the broken part from the ignition. Get a locksmith equipped with special tools to safely remove broken keys from ignitions. You can also have an entirely new key made using the correct cuts for the ignition of your car.

Broken Master Key

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

To begin, spray the inside of your lock with a lubricant such as WD-40 or graphite powder. You can also use the hacksaw blade method that involves moving the blade along the side of a broken key and grabbing onto some of its  teeth. If you're successful you will be in a position to take the broken key out.

Another tool that is useful is an extractor for keys spiral, which you can find in a wide range of hardware stores. It is a thin, flexible bar with spiral threads, which can be inserted into the keyway and then bent to reach into the damaged section of the key. Once it has been snagged onto the serrations, you can turn it in a circular motion and push it against the damaged part of the key to pull it out.

Before contacting a locksmith, try to remove the broken master key. If you're unable to pull the piece out, you need to call the big guns and get a locksmith to make you a brand new key and reprogram it to the transponder of your car.