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How to Repair Car Keys

The car keys are tiny and might not seem to be important, but they're vital for the proper operation of your car. Replacing an old key or a transponder one can cost upwards of $200.

There are ways to fix your car keys yourself at just a fraction of the cost. This article will address the most frequent car keys problems and the DIY solutions to fix them.

Dead Key Fob Battery

Cars are equipped with a remote key fob that allows opening the doors and trunk easier than ever. The battery inside this device is susceptible to dying. Fortunately, there are some tricks that can be used to solve this problem in the event of a need.

First, determine if the car is still in ignition mode. If it is, the key fob's battery might be low instead of dead. To test, press the button on the fob against the ignition button of the vehicle. If this works, then the battery is probably fine and will only need to be replaced.

To replace the battery in the fob, the case open using the screwdriver. Be cautious not to put too much pressure on the fob because this could cause the fob to split in two. If the fob doesn't open try prying the tool several times around the outside of case.

After the fob has been opened then remove the mechanical key, and then open the electronic portion of the car. Install the new battery and snap back the shell. If the key fob isn't working after this procedure, there could be a more serious problem with the remote start system that requires a professional to diagnose. A trusted mechanic will be able help you if this is the situation. If you require assistance with your car and you need help, you can call roadside assistance.

Broken Key Ring

There are a few options you can do in the event that your key fob won't function because the ring is broken. Check to see if you can locate the broken piece within the ignition. If it's still there the ignition, take it out without damaging either the ignition lock or the door lock. Call a locksmith if you are having trouble taking the key off. They have special tools 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. Clean the circuit board using rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. This will eliminate corrosion and ensure that the contact pads don't get damaged.

You can fix a broken ring by using a thick wire or nail to close the hole. Superglue can be used to fix a broken key ring. First, clean the damaged ring with a damp towel and then apply a small amount superglue on each end of the wire or nail. Press the pieces together and let them dry before using your car. These DIY solutions can look appealing, but they're just an interim measure. For long-term repairs, it's best to get a professional locksmith. They have the experience and tools to repair a broken key quickly and efficiently. They can replace the battery and reprogram your key fob if necessary.

Broken Key Blade

Some key blades may break due to wear and tear. If this occurs, you ought to buy a new one. The issue isn't as serious as you might think at first glance. The main problem is that the blade has snapped away from the case.

Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is one solution to fix the problem. Then, you can make use of pliers or tweezers grab the broken end of the key and pull it. You could also make use of a magnet if the key is magnetic. Just be careful not to use a magnet on an ignition key as it could cause the tumbler in the lock to break.

Call a locksmith immediately when you are unable remove the broken piece of the key. They're equipped with special tools that permit them to safely remove keys without causing damage.

Super glue can be used to fix an open lock that has snapped. Apply a small amount of the glue to the edges and press them in. Wait until the glue has dried before you insert your key into the lock. This method isn't very reliable, and you may have to repeat it a few times before it is successful. Plus the super glue may not be enough to hold the key together. This is more of a temporary measure than a permanent solution.

Broken Plastic Loop

If the plastic loop breaks off, it can make the key ineffective. Fortunately, this is an simple fix. As a replacement, you can use an extremely thick wire or a finishing nail. For each end of the nail or wire you need to drill two holes into the plastic loop. Cut  car key repair near me  or nail to the desired width, and place a small drop of superglue into each hole. Then, press the wire or nail into the holes and let them dry.

A locksmith who sells replacement shells is a different 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 complete replacement cost.

It's not the most ideal solution, but it'll get you back on the road in case your key broke in half. It's not easy to fix if the key blade is inside the ignition, however. You could try using a hair clip or needle extractor tool to pull the broken part out of the ignition, but this is risky if you're not careful. The best solution is to contact a locksmith with special tools to safely remove broken keys from the ignition. They can also design a new key with the correct cuts for the ignition of your vehicle and ensure it works correctly when inserted into the lock.

Broken Master Key

If a key breaks inside the lock, you'll have to find it before it gets completely destroyed. You can use lubricants, tweezers, and needle nose pliers to grab the fragment of a broken key.

Spray the inside of your lock with WD-40 or a graphite powder. You could also try the hacksaw method, that involves carefully sliding the blade down along the side of the broken key, and attaching it to the 'teeth' - if you are able to do this you should be able remove the broken key from the lock.

Another useful tool is an extractor for keys spiral, that can be found in a wide range of hardware stores. This tool is a thin rod with spiral threads that can be inserted in the keyway, and later bent into the broken part of the key. Once it has been snagged onto the serrations, you can twist it in a circular motion, and push it against the damaged section of the key to pull it out.

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