The 10 Scariest Things About Repair Car Keys

how to repair car key fob to repair car keys (Full Guide)

Car keys may appear tiny and insignificant, however they are vital to the operation of your vehicle. Replacing an old key or a transponder key that is modern could cost as much as $200.

There are ways to fix your car keys yourself for less than the cost. This article will cover some of the most common car key problems and their DIY solutions.

Dead Key Fob Batteries

Cars are equipped with remote key fobs that makes opening the doors, trunk and tailgate more convenient than ever before. The battery in this device is susceptible to dying. There are a few strategies you can use to resolve this issue quickly.

Examine if your vehicle is still in ignition mode. If so the battery on the key fob may be low, but not dead. To test this, push the button on the key fob right against the ignition button. If it works, the battery is probably in good condition and needs to be changed.

To replace the fob battery, first pry open the case with the help of a screwdriver or watch-type device. Be careful not to press too hard since this could cause the fob to break apart. If the fob isn't opening try prying the tool more than once around the outside of the case.

After the fob has been opened then remove the mechanical key and then open the electronic portion of the car. Then, you can insert the replacement battery and then snap the shell together. If the key fob won't work after this procedure, there could be a bigger problem with the remote start system that requires a professional diagnosis. A trusted mechanic will be in a position to assist you in this situation. You can also call roadside assistance for help with your vehicle in case you need it.

Broken Key Ring

There are a few steps that you can do if your key fob doesn't work because the ring is broken. Check to see if you can locate the broken piece within the ignition. If it is, remove it without damaging the lock on the ignition or door lock. Call a locksmith if you have difficulty taking the key off. They have tools that can safely remove a broken key from the ignition.

A broken car keys repairs near me key could be caused by corrosion of the plastic frame or circuit board. You can clean the circuit board by using a cotton swab with rubbing alcohol. This will remove corrosion and ensure the contact pads don't get damaged.

You can repair a damaged ring by using a thick wire or nail to seal the hole. You can also use superglue to fix a broken ring. First, clean the damaged rings with a damp cloth and then apply a small amount superglue to each end of the wire or nail. Let the pieces dry and then press them in place. These DIY solutions may seem appealing, but they're really just a stopgap measure. For long-term repairs, it's recommended to hire a professional locksmith. They have the tools and expertise to repair a damaged car key quickly and efficiently. They can replace the battery and reprogram the key fob, if needed.

Broken Key Blade

Key blades may break from a lot of wear and tear. If this occurs, you must buy a new one. Fortunately, this issue isn't as bad as it might seem at first. The primary problem is that the blade has snapped away from the case.

One solution is spraying the key hole with fluid that lubricates the key hole. Then, you can use pliers or tweezers to grasp the broken end of the key and pull it. If the key is magnetic, you can also use a magnet to assist in pulling it out. Use a magnet to help you remove the key, but be careful to not break the tumbler of the lock.

Contact a locksmith right away in the event that you are unable to remove the broken part of the key. They have the right tools to safely extract keys without causing further damage.

You can also use super glue to repair a snapped key. Apply a small amount of glue to the edges and press them together. Then, wait until the glue is dry before inserting your key into the lock. But this method isn't very reliable and you might have to repeat the process multiple times before it is successful. Super glue might not be able to hold the key in place. This is more of a temporary measure than a permanent solution.

Broken Plastic Loop

If your key fob's plastic loop breaks off it could render the key repair near me ineffective. It's an simple fix. As a replacement, you can use an extremely thick wire or a finishing nail. For each end of the nail or wire, drill two holes into the loop of plastic. Cut the wire or nail to key width, and then place tiny drops of superglue into each hole. Then, press the wire or nail into the holes to close them and allow it to dry.

A locksmith who sells replacement shells is an alternative option. They can remove the programmable component of your key, then transfer it to the new shell and cut a new blade for much less than a full replacement cost.

This isn't the most efficient solution, but it will allow you to travel once more if your key been cut in half. However, it can be difficult to fix the key blade if it is in the ignition. If you're not cautious you could employ a hair clip, or needle to remove the damaged part from the ignition. The best choice is to call an expert locksmith who has tools for safely removing damaged keys from the ignition. They can also design new keys that have the proper cuts for the ignition of your vehicle, so it will work correctly when inserted into the lock.

Broken Master Key

If a key is broken inside the lock, you'll have to try to retrieve it before it is completely destroyed. There are several methods you can employ, such as using lubricants, tools, needle nose pliers and tweezers to pick up a piece of the key that has been broken and pull it out.

Spray the inside of the lock with WD-40 or graphite powder. You can also use the hacksaw blade technique that involves sliding the blade across the face of the broken key, and grabbing onto some of its 'teeth.' If you are successful then you should be able to take the broken key out.

Another tool that is useful is a spiral key extractor which you can find in a variety of hardware stores. This has a thin flexible bar with spiral threads which can be put into the keyway and then bent to get into the broken section of the key. Once it is hooked to the serrations, you can turn it in a circular direction and press it against the broken part of the key to get it out.

It's worth trying to remove a master key that's broken prior to calling an expert locksmith. If you're unable to take the broken piece off then you'll have to contact a professional locksmith. Locksmiths can create you a new key that will be programmed to the transponder of your car.