How To Survive Your Boss On Repair Car Keys
How to Repair Car Keys
The car keys aren't big and might not seem to be important, but they are essential for the operation of your vehicle. The cost of replacing a traditional or modern transponder car key could be as high as $200.
There are many ways to repair your car keys yourself for less than the cost. This article will go over the most frequently encountered car keys problems and their DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Battery
Cars are equipped with a remote key fob that makes opening the doors, trunk and tailgate easier than ever before. The battery inside the device is prone to dying. There are a few strategies you can use to solve this problem quickly.
Check to see if your car is still in the ignition mode. If repair car key is, then the key fob battery may simply be depleted instead of dead. To test this, push the button on the key fob up against the vehicle's ignition button. If this works, the battery is probably in good condition and only has to be replaced.
To replace the battery within the fob, pry open the case with an screwdriver. Be careful not to apply too much pressure because this could cause the fob to break into two pieces. If the fob won't open, try using your pry tool more than once around the outside of case.
Open the electronic portion of your car after you have removed the mechanical key. Insert the new battery and snap back the shell. If the key fob isn't working after this, there may be a more serious issue with your car's remote start system that requires a professional diagnostic. If this is the case, a trusted mechanic should be able help you. You can also call roadside assistance for assistance with your vehicle if needed.
Broken Key Ring
If your key fob isn't functioning because the ring is broken, there are a few things you can try. First, you should check to see if the broken piece is still in the ignition. If it's still inside, remove it without damaging either the ignition lock or the door lock. If you are having trouble getting it out, contact a locksmith for help. They have specialized tools that allow you to safely remove a damaged key from the ignition.
Another common cause of 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 get rid of the corrosion and stop damage to the contact pads.
If your key isn't starting because the ring is broken, you may be able to fix it with a strong wire or nail to seal the hole. Superglue can be used to fix a broken key ring. First, clean the broken ring with a damp towel and then apply a small amount of superglue to the ends of the nail or wire. Press the pieces together and allow them to dry before using your vehicle. These DIY solutions can appear appealing, but they're only temporary solutions. For long-term repairs, you'll want to hire a professional locksmith. They have the expertise and tools to fix the broken key quickly and efficiently. They can replace the battery and reprogram your key fob in the event of need.
Broken Key Blade
Key blades can break due to wear and tear. If this occurs, you ought to buy a new one. The issue isn't as serious as you think at first. The primary issue is that the blade broke off from the case.
Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is a way to fix it. Then, you can use pliers, tweezers, or a pin to grasp the broken end of the key and take 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 magnet on an ignition key because it could cause the tumbler in the lock to break.
If you are unable to remove the broken piece of key, call an expert locksmith immediately. They have the right tools to safely remove keys without causing any further damage.
Super glue can be used to fix an open lock that has snapped. Apply a small amount of glue to the edges of the break and press them together. Then, wait until the glue is dry before inserting your key into the lock. However, this method isn't reliable and you might have repeat the process several times before it works. Super glue might not be able to hold the key together. This is more of a temporary fix than an option that is permanent.
Broken Plastic Loop
If your key fob's plastic loop gets damaged it could render the key ineffective. It's a fairly simple fix. You can use thick wire or a finishing nail to replace it. For each end of the wire or nail, drill two holes into the plastic loop. Cut the wire or nail to a key width, then place the superglue drop in each hole. Then, press the wire or nail into the holes until it closes them and allow it to dry.
Another option is to purchase an alternative shell from a locksmith who sells them. They can transfer the programmable part of your key to the new shell and cut an entirely new blade at a fraction of the cost.
This isn't the most efficient option, but it can help you get back on the road again if your key has been cut in half. It's difficult to fix when the key blade is in the ignition, however. If you're not careful you can make use of a hair clip or needle to remove the broken part from the ignition. Contact a locksmith who has special tools to safely remove damaged keys from ignitions. They can also design a new key with the correct cuts for your vehicle's ignition and ensure it works perfectly when it is put into the lock.
Broken Master Key
If a key gets damaged inside the lock, you'll have to find it before it's completely destroyed. You can employ tweezers, lubricants, and needle nose pliers to grasp the fragments of a damaged key.
To begin, spray the interior of your lock with a lubricant, such as WD-40 or graphite powder. You can also try the hacksaw blade technique, which involves sliding the blade along the side of a broken key and then grasping a few of its teeth. If you're successful then you should be able to remove the broken key.
Another useful tool is a spiral key extractor, that can be found in many hardware stores. It is a thin flexible rod with spiral threads that can be inserted into the keyway and then bent to form the broken part of the key. Once it is hooked to the serrations, you can turn it in a circular motion and push it against the damaged portion of the key to pull it out.
It's worth attempting to remove the master key that is broken before calling a professional locksmith. If you are unable to remove the broken piece then you'll have to call a locksmith. A locksmith can give you a new key that will be programmed to the transponder of your car.