The 10 Most Terrifying Things About Repair Car Keys
How to repair car key Car Keys
Car keys may seem tiny and insignificant, but they are crucial to the functioning of your vehicle. Replacing an old key or a transponder key that is modern could cost as much as $200.
However, there are ways to fix your car key remote repair near me keys at home with a fraction of the cost. This article will discuss the most common car keys problems and the DIY solutions to fix them.
Dead Key Fob Battery
Cars come with a remote key fob which makes opening doors, trunk and tailgate more convenient than ever before. However, the battery inside this device can die. There are a few tricks you can employ to fix this problem quickly.
Examine if your car is still in the ignition mode. If it is, the key fob battery may simply be low instead of dead. To test, press the button on the fob against the ignition button on the vehicle. If this is successful, the battery is probably in good condition and needs to be replaced.
To replace the battery inside the fob, pry open the case with an screwdriver. Be careful not to apply too much force, as this could cause the fob's case to split. If the fob isn't opening open with ease, try placing your pry tool into multiple places around the outside of the case.
Once the fob is open then remove the mechanical key and open the electronic portion of the car. Insert the new battery and snap it back into the shell. If the key fob isn't working after this procedure, it could be an issue with the remote start system of your vehicle. This will require an expert to identify. A trusted mechanic will be in a position to assist you in this situation. You can also reach out to roadside assistance for help with your vehicle, if you require it.
Broken Key Ring
There are a few options to do when your key fob does not work because the ring is broken. The first step is to see if the broken piece is still in the ignition. If it is, remove it without damaging the lock on the ignition or door lock. Contact a locksmith if are having difficulty getting rid of the key. They have specialized tools that are able to safely remove the damaged key from the ignition.
Another reason that can lead to a broken car key is corrosion on the circuit board or frame. You can clean the circuit board using a cotton swab soaked in ruby alcohol. This will remove corrosion and ensure the contact pads don't become damaged.
Repair a damaged ring using a strong wire or nail to close the hole. Superglue can also be used to repair a broken ring. First, clean the damaged ring with a damp cloth and then apply a small amount superglue to the ends of the nail or wire. Allow the pieces to dry, and then press them together. These DIY solutions may appear appealing, but they're just a stopgap measure. For long-term repairs, it's best to work with an experienced locksmith. They have the tools and expertise to repair a damaged car key repairs near me key quickly and efficiently. They can replace the battery and reprogram your key fob, if needed.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades break because of a lot wear and tear. If this happens, you should probably buy a new one. Fortunately, the issue isn't as bad as it appears at first glance. The main problem is that the metal blade broke off 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 grab the broken end of the key and pull it out. If the key is magnetic, you could also try using a magnet to assist in pulling it out. Be cautious not to use a magnet on an ignition key because it could cause the lock tumbler to break.
If you're unable to remove the broken piece of key, call a locksmith right away. They have special tools to safely remove keys without causing damage.
You can also try super glue to fix a broken key. Apply a small amount of glue to the edges and press them in. Wait until the glue has dried before inserting your key into the lock. This method isn't reliable and you may have to repeat the process a few times before it works. In addition, the super glue may not be enough to hold the key together. Therefore, this is more of a temporary measure rather than a permanent solution.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the plastic loop breaks off, it can make the key useless. It's a fairly simple fix. For a replacement alternative, you can use an extremely thick wire or a finishing nail. Drill two holes in the damaged loop of plastic for each end of the wire or nail. Cut the wire or nail to key width, and place tiny drops of superglue in each hole. Press the nail or wire into the holes and let them dry.
A locksmith who sells replacement shells is another option. They can remove the programmable component of your key, transfer it to the new shell, and cut the new blade for less than a full replacement cost.
It's not the most ideal solution, but it will get you back on the road in case your key broke in half. However, it can be difficult to repair the key blade if it is in the ignition. If you're not cautious, you can employ a hair clip, or a needle to remove the broken part from the ignition. Contact a locksmith who has special tools to safely remove broken keys from ignitions. They can also create new keys with the appropriate cuts for your ignition, so it will work correctly when inserted into the lock.
Broken Master Key
You'll need to at regaining the key before it becomes completely destroyed. There are a few techniques that you can try, such as using lubricants as well as tools such as needle nose pliers and tweezers. These tools can pick up a piece of the damaged key and pull it out.
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 technique, which involves sliding the blade across the face of a broken key and grabbing onto some of its teeth.' If you are successful you will be able to take the broken key out.
Many hardware stores sell tools for key extraction that spiral. It is a thin, flexible bar with spiral threads, which can be inserted into the keyway, and then bent to reach into the broken part of the key. Once it is hooked to the serrations, it is possible to twist it in a circular motion, and press it against the broken key repair near me part of the key to pull it out.
Before contacting a locksmith, try to remove the broken master key before calling a locksmith. If you are unable to get a piece out, it's time to call in the big guns and have a locksmith cut you a new key and reprogram it with the transponder in your car.