How to Repair Car Keys
Car keys may appear small and insignificant, but they are essential to the operation of your vehicle. Replacing a traditional key or a modern transponder key could cost as much as $200.
There are solutions to fix your car keys yourself for a fraction of the price. This article will cover the most frequently encountered car key problems and the DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Battery
Cars come with a remote key fob that allows opening the doors, trunk and tailgate more convenient than ever. However, the battery in the device could die. There are, however, some tricks you can employ to solve this problem in a pinch.
Check to see if your car is still in the ignition mode. If it is, then the key fob battery may be drained instead of dead. To test this, push the button on the key fob right up against the vehicle's ignition button. If this is successful, the battery is probably in good condition and only needs to be replaced.
To replace the battery within the fob, open the case using the screwdriver. Be careful not to apply too much pressure since this could cause the fob to split apart. If the fob isn't opening Try using your pry tool more than once around the outside of the case.
Open the electronic part of your car after you have removed the mechanical key. Then, you can insert the replacement battery and snap the shell back together. If the key fob won't work after this, there could be a bigger issue with your car's remote start system that requires a professional diagnostic. If this is the case, a trusted mechanic should be able to help you. If you need help with your vehicle or vehicle, you can get roadside assistance.
Broken Key Ring
If your key fob isn't functioning because the ring broke, there are a few things you could try. Examine if you can locate the broken piece inside the ignition. If it's still there the ignition, take it out without causing damage to the ignition lock or the door lock. If you are having trouble removing it, call a locksmith for help. They have tools that can safely remove a broken key from the ignition.
Another reason for the car key breaking is corrosion on the circuit board or plastic frame. You can clean the circuit board using a cotton swab and ruby alcohol. This will remove corrosion and ensure the contact pads aren't damaged.
Repair a damaged ring using a strong nail or wire to close the hole. Superglue can be used to fix damaged key rings. After cleaning the ring using a damp cloth apply a small amount of superglue on each end of the nail or wire. Let the pieces dry and then press them together. These DIY solutions may look appealing, but they're really just a stopgap measure. For long-term repairs, it's recommended to work with an experienced locksmith. They have the knowledge and tools to fix the broken key quickly and effectively. They can replace the battery and reprogram the key fob in the event of need.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades might break due to wear and tear. If this occurs, you must purchase a new one. This problem isn't nearly as serious as you might think at first glance. The primary issue is that the blade snapped off the case.
One solution is spraying the key hole with a fluid that lubricates the key hole. Then, you can use pliers or tweezers to grasp the damaged end of the key and pull it. If the key is magnetic, you could also use a magnet to pull it out. Just be careful not to use a magnetic tool on an ignition key as it could cause the tumbler of the lock to break.
Contact a locksmith immediately when you are unable take out the damaged part of the key. They have tools that allow them to safely remove keys without causing further damage.
Super glue can be used to fix the snapped lock. Apply a small amount of glue to the edges of the break and press them together. Make sure the glue is dry before inserting the key into the lock. However, this method isn't reliable and you may have to repeat the process a few times before it works. Super glue might not be able to hold the key in place. This is more of a stopgap measure than an option that can last.
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If the plastic loop breaks off it could render the key ineffective. It's a fairly easy fix. To replace it alternative, you can opt for a thick wire or finishing nail. For each end of the wire or nail make two holes in the loop of plastic. Cut the wire or nail to key width and put a drop of superglue on each hole. Press the wire or nail into the holes to close them, and then let it dry.
A locksmith who sells replacement shells is another option. They can take out the programmable part of your key, move it to the new shell and cut a new blade for much less than the full replacement cost.
This is not the best solution, but it will help you get back on the road again if your key split in half. However, it can be difficult to repair the key blade if it is in the ignition. You can try using a hair clip or a needle extractor tool to pull the broken piece of the ignition, however this is risky if you're not careful. Call a locksmith with special tools to safely remove broken keys from ignitions. They can also design a new key with the appropriate cuts for the ignition of your vehicle, so it will work correctly when inserted into the lock.
Broken Master Key
If a key gets damaged inside the lock, you'll need to attempt to retrieve it before it is completely destroyed. There are several methods that you can try, such as using lubricants and tools like needle nose pliers and tweezers to pick up a piece of the damaged key and then remove it.
Spray the inside of your lock with WD-40 or graphite powder. You could also try the hacksaw blade method which involves carefully moving the blade down the edge of the broken key, and connecting to a few of the 'teeth'. If you succeed in doing this you will be able to take the broken key from the lock.
Many hardware stores offer tools for key extraction that spiral. This tool is a thin rod that is flexible and has spiral threads that can be inserted in the keyway and then bent to the broken portion of the key. Once it is hooked to the serrations, you can twist it in a circular direction and push it against the damaged portion of the key to get it out.
It's worth attempting to remove the master key that is broken before calling an expert locksmith. If you are unable to take the broken piece off, you'll need to call a locksmith. A locksmith can give you a new key that can be programmed with the transponder of your car.