5 Laws Anyone Working In Repair Car Keys Should Know

How to Repair Car Keys

Car keys may seem tiny and insignificant, but they are crucial to the operation of your vehicle. The cost of replacing an old or modern transponder car key can range from $200 to upwards of $200.

There are methods to fix your car keys at home for less than. This article will discuss some of the most common car key problems and their DIY solutions.

Dead Key Fob Battery

The remote key fobs that are included with cars make it easier than ever to open the trunk, doors and the tailgate. However, the battery inside this device can die. Fortunately, there are some tricks that can be used to fix this issue in an emergency.

Check to see if the vehicle is in ignition mode. If it is, then the battery of the key fob may be drained instead of dead. To test, press the button on the fob against the ignition button of the vehicle. If this is successful, the battery is probably fine and needs to be changed.

To replace the battery in the fob, you need to open the case with an screwdriver. Be cautious not to press too hard since this could cause the fob's to split in two. If the fob doesn't open try prying the tool more than once around the outside of the case.

After the fob has been opened, remove the mechanical key, and then open the electronic part of the car. Then, insert the battery replacement and then snap the shell together. If your key fob still isn't working after this, it may be due to an problem with the remote starting system of your vehicle. This will require a professional to diagnose. If this is the case, a reliable mechanic should be able assist you. If you require assistance with your vehicle and you need help, you can call roadside assistance.

Broken Key Ring

There are a few options you can do if your key fob doesn't work because the ring has been broken. First, you should check to see if the damaged piece is still in the ignition. If it is, you should remove it without damaging the lock on the ignition or door lock. Contact a locksmith if have difficulty getting rid of the key. They have special tools that can safely remove keys that are damaged from the ignition.

Another reason for a broken car key is corrosion on the circuit board or plastic frame. You can clean the circuit board using a cotton swab soaked in ruby alcohol. This will remove any corrosion and ensure that the contact pads aren't damaged.

If your key isn't starting because of a broken ring or was damaged, you might be able to repair it by using a thick wire or nail to close the hole. You can also use superglue to fix a broken ring. First, clean the damaged ring with a damp towel and then apply a small amount of superglue on each end of the wire or nail. Apply the glue to the ring and let them dry prior to using your car. These DIY solutions may seem appealing, however they are only temporary solutions. It's best to hire an expert locksmith for repairs that last. They have the tools and knowledge to fix a broken car key quickly and efficiently. They can even replace the battery inside your key fob and change it's programming if required.

Broken Key Blade

Some key blades can break from a lot of wear and tear. If this occurs, you must buy a new blade. This problem isn't nearly as serious as you think at first.  key repair car  is that the blade has broken off from the case.

One solution is to spray the key hole with oil-based lubricant. Then you can use pliers tweezers, or a pin to grab the broken end of the key and take it out. If the key is magnetic, you could also try using a magnetic tool to help pull it out. Be careful not to use a magnet on an ignition key since it could cause the lock tumbler to break.

If you're unable to get the broken piece of the key, call an emergency locksmith. They have special tools that can safely remove keys without causing damage.

You can also try super glue to fix a snapped key. Apply a small amount to the edges and press them in. After that, wait until the glue has dried before you insert your key into the lock. But this method isn't very secure and you may need to repeat the process multiple times before it's successful. Super glue might not be able to hold the key in place. This is more of a temporary fix than a permanent one.

Broken Plastic Loop

If the plastic loop on your key fob is damaged it can make the key ineffective. This is a relatively easy fix. You can use wire or a finishing nail to replace it. For each end of the nail or wire you need to drill two holes into the plastic loop. Cut the wire or nail into a key width, then place tiny drops of superglue into each hole. Press the wire or nail into the holes to close them and let it dry.

Another option is to get the replacement shell from a locksmith that sells them. They can take the programmable portion of your key, then transfer it to the new shell, and cut an entirely new blade for 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 been cut in half. It can be difficult to repair when the blade of the key is in the ignition, however. If you're not careful you can employ a hair clip, or a needle to take the damaged part from the ignition. Contact a locksmith who has special tools to safely remove damaged keys from ignitions. You can also request a new key that is made using the correct cuts to fit the ignition of your car.

Broken Master Key

You'll need to try at regaining the key before it's completely destroyed. You can make use of lubricants, tweezers, and needle nose pliers to grab the broken fragment of a key.

Spray the inside of your lock with WD-40 or a graphite powder. You could also try the hacksaw blade method which involves carefully sliding the blade down along the edge of the broken key and attaching it to the 'teeth'. If you succeed in doing this you will be able to take the broken key from the lock.

Many hardware stores offer a spiral key extraction tool. This has a thin flexible bar with spiral threads, which can be put into the keyway and then bent to get into the broken part of the key. Once it has caught onto the serrations, you can turn the bar into a circle and then pull it against the broken section of the key.

Before calling a locksmith, try to get rid of the broken master key. If you can't get a piece out, you need to call the big guns and get a locksmith to cut you a new key and reprogram it with the transponder in your car.