The 10 Most Scariest Things About Repair Car Keys
How to Repair Car Keys
The car keys are tiny and may not seem important, but they are essential for the proper operation of your car. Replacing an old key or a transponder key that is modern could cost as much as $200.
There are many ways to repair your car keys yourself for just a fraction of the cost. This article will discuss the most frequent car keys problems and the DIY solutions to fix them.
Dead Key Fob Battery
Cars come with remote key repairs key fobs that allows opening the doors, trunk and tailgate more convenient than ever. However, the battery inside the device can fail. There are a few tricks you can employ to fix this issue quickly.
First, make sure that the car is in ignition mode. If it is, then the key fob battery may simply be depleted instead of dead. To test this, push the button on the key fob straight up against the vehicle's ignition button. If this works, then the battery is probably fine and will only need to be replaced.
To replace the fob's battery, first pry the case off using the help of a screwdriver or watch-type device. Be cautious not to press too hard because this could cause the fob's to split in two. If the fob isn't coming open easily, try wedge your pry tool into more than one place around the outside of the case.
Open the electronic compartment of your car after you have removed the mechanical key. Then insert the replacement battery and then snap the shell together. If the key fob isn't working after this, it could be due to a larger problem with the remote control car key repairs starting system in your car key repair near me. This requires a professional to diagnose. A reputable mechanic will capable of helping you in this situation. If you require assistance with your vehicle, you can contact roadside assistance.
Broken Key Ring
If your key fob isn't working because the ring is broken, there are a few things you could try. First, you must check to see if the broken piece is still in the ignition. If it's still there, remove it without damaging either the ignition lock or the door lock. If you have trouble removing it, call a locksmith for assistance. They have the right tools to safely remove a broken key from the ignition.
Another common cause of the car key breaking is the corrosion of the circuit board or frame. You can clean the circuit board using a cotton swab and ruby alcohol. This will get rid of the corrosion and stop damage to the contact pads.
If your key isn't starting because of a broken ring it, you might be able to repair it with a strong wire or nail to close the hole. Superglue can also be used to repair a damaged ring. After cleaning the ring with a moist cloth, apply a small amount superglue on each end of the nail or wire. Let the pieces dry and then press them into place. These DIY solutions might seem appealing, but they're only a temporary measure. It's best to hire an experienced locksmith for long-term repairs. They have the tools and know-how to repair a damaged car key quickly and effectively. They can replace the battery and reprogram your key fob if necessary.
broken car key repair Key Blade
Some key blades break from a lot of wear and tear. If this happens, you should probably purchase a new one. The issue isn't as serious as you think at first glance. The main problem is that the metal blade has separated from the case.
Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is one method to repair it. Then you can use pliers pins, or tweezers to grasp the broken end of the 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 magnetic tool on an ignition key since it could cause the lock tumbler to break.
If you're unable to take the broken piece of key, call an expert locksmith immediately. They're equipped with special tools to safely remove keys without causing damage.
You can also use super glue to fix a broken key. Apply a small amount of glue to the edges of the break and press them together. Wait until the glue has dried before inserting the key into the lock. This method isn't secure and you may need to repeat the process a few times before it works. Super glue may not hold the key together. So, this is more of a stopgap measure than an option that can last.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the loop of plastic on your key fob fails it could cause the key to become ineffective. It's a fairly simple fix. You can use wire or a nail for finishing as a replacement. For each end of the wire or nail make two holes in the loop of plastic. Cut the wire or nail into a key width, and then place tiny drops of superglue into each hole. Apply the nail or wire into the holes and let them dry.
Another option is to purchase a replacement shell from a locksmith who sells them. They can take the programmable portion of your key, transfer it to the new shell and cut the new blade for less than a complete replacement cost.
This isn't the best solution, but it will help you get back on the road once more if your key broken in half. It can be difficult to repair if the key blade is in the ignition, however. If you're not careful you could use a hair clip or a needle to take the broken piece from the ignition. Contact a locksmith who has special tools to safely remove damaged keys from ignitions. You can also get a new key that is made using the proper cuts for the ignition of your vehicle.
Broken Master Key
If a key breaks inside the lock, you'll need to find it before it gets completely destroyed. There are several methods that you can try, such as using lubricants, tools, needle nose pliers and tweezers. These tools can pick up a piece of the broken key and remove it.
Spray the inside of your lock with WD-40 or graphite powder. You can also try the hacksaw blade method, which involves carefully sliding the blade down along the edge of the broken key and hooking onto some of the 'teeth'. If you are able to do this you will be able to take the broken key from the lock.
Another useful tool is an extractor for keys spiral, that can be found in many hardware stores. 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 hooked onto the serrations, it is possible to twist it in a circular motion and press it against the broken part of the key to take it out.
It's worth trying to get rid of a broken master key before calling an expert locksmith. If you're unable to pull a piece out, you need to call in the big guns to have a locksmith make you a brand new key and reprogram it using the transponder in your car.