20 Up-And-Comers To Watch In The Repair Car Keys Industry
How to Repair Car Keys
Car keys may appear tiny and insignificant, however they are vital to the operation of your vehicle. Replacing an old key or a modern transponder key can cost up to $200.
There are solutions to fix your car keys yourself for just a fraction of the cost. This article will cover some of the most common car keys issues and the DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
Cars come with a remote key fob which makes opening doors and trunk easier than ever before. However, the battery inside this device can die. Fortunately, there are a few tricks that can be used to fix this issue in a pinch.
First, determine if the car is in ignition mode. If it is, the key fob battery may simply be depleted instead of dead. To test this, press the button on the fob against the ignition button on the vehicle. If it works, then the battery is probably in good condition and has to be replaced.
To replace the fob's battery, start by prying open the case with a screwdriver or watch-type tool. Be careful not to apply too much force, as this could cause the fob's case to split. If the fob isn't opening Try using your pry tool several times around the outside of case.
Once the fob is open take out the mechanical key, and then open the electronic part of the car. Then, insert the battery replacement and then snap the shell together. If the key fob won't work after this, there could be a larger problem with the remote start system that requires a professional diagnostic. A trusted mechanic will be capable of helping you if this is the situation. You can also call roadside assistance to assist with your vehicle if needed.
Broken Key Ring
There are a few steps to do if your key fob doesn't function because the ring is broken. Check to see if you can find the broken piece inside the ignition. If it's still in there, remove it without causing damage to the ignition lock or the door lock. If you have trouble removing it, call a locksmith for help. They have specialized tools that can safely remove keys that are damaged from the ignition.
A broken car key could also be the result of corrosion on the plastic frame or circuit board. You can clean the circuit board using a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol. This will remove corrosion and ensure that the contact pads don't get damaged.
You can repair a damaged ring by using a thick wire or nail to close the hole. Superglue can be used to repair damaged key rings. First, clean the damaged ring with a damp towel and then apply a small amount superglue on each end of the wire or nail. Apply the glue to the ring and let them dry prior to using your vehicle. These DIY solutions can look appealing, but they're only temporary solutions. For long-term repairs, it's recommended to work with an expert locksmith. They have the tools and knowledge to repair a damaged car key quickly and effectively. They can even replace the battery inside your key fob, and change it's programming if required.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades break from a lot of wear and tear. If this happens, it's time to get a new key. Fortunately, the issue isn't as bad as it may appear at first. The primary issue is that the metal blade snapped off the case.
Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is one solution to repair it. Then, you can employ pliers or tweezers grasp the damaged end of the key and pull it. You may also make use of a magnet if the key is magnetic. Just be careful not to use a magnet on an ignition key because it could cause the lock tumbler to break.
If you're not able to remove the broken piece of the key, contact an emergency locksmith. They're equipped with special tools that permit them to safely remove keys without causing damage.
You can also use super glue to fix a broken key. Apply a small amount glue to the edges of the break and press them together. Wait until the glue has dried before inserting the key into the lock. This method isn't extremely secure, and you could have to repeat it several times before it does the trick. Super glue may not be able to hold the key in place. So, this is more of a temporary measure than an option that can last.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the loop of plastic on your key fob fails, it can cause the key to become useless. Luckily, this is a fairly simple fix. For a replacement, you can use wire that is thick or a finishing nail. For each end of the nail or wire you need to drill two holes into the loop of plastic. Cut the wire or nail to key width, then place one drop of superglue in each hole. Apply car key repairs or wire into the holes and allow them to dry.
Another option is to get the replacement shell from a locksmith that sells them. They can take the programmable portion of your key, move it to the new shell and cut the new blade for less than the full replacement cost.
It's not the best solution, but it can bring you back on the road in case your key broke in half. However, it can be difficult to fix the key blade if it's in the ignition. You could try using a hair clip or a needle extractor tool to pull the broken part out of the ignition, but this is risky if you're not careful. Get a locksmith equipped with special tools to safely remove damaged keys from ignitions. You can also request an entirely new key made using appropriate cuts for the ignition of your vehicle.
Broken Master Key
If a key gets damaged inside the lock, you'll have to try to retrieve it before it's completely destroyed. You can employ 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 can also employ hacksaw blades that involves sliding the blade across the face of a damaged key and grasping onto a few of its teeth. If you're successful then you should be able to take the broken key out.
Many hardware stores offer a spiral key extraction tool. It is a thin, flexible bar with spiral threads which can be inserted into the keyway and bent to dig into the damaged section of the key. Once it has caught onto the serrations you can twist the bar into a circle and then pull it up against the damaged section of the key.
It's worth trying to remove the master key that is broken before calling an expert locksmith. If you're not able to remove the broken piece then you'll have to call in the professionals. A locksmith can make you an entirely new key that will be programmed with the transponder in your car.