How to Repair Car Keys

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

There are methods to fix your car keys at home for only a fraction of the cost. This article will cover some of the most common car keys issues and their DIY solutions.

Dead Key Fob Battery

The remote key fobs that come with cars make it easier than ever before to open the trunk, doors, and the tailgate. However, the battery inside the device could die. Fortunately, there are a few techniques that can be employed to fix this issue in a pinch.

Examine if your car is still in the ignition mode. If it is, then the battery on the key fob could simply be low instead of dead. To test this, press the button on the fob against the ignition button of the vehicle. If this works, the battery is probably fine and needs to be replaced.

To replace the battery inside the fob, pry open the case with an screwdriver. Be cautious not to apply too much pressure since this could cause the fob's to split into two pieces. If the fob doesn't open Try using your pry tool several times around the outside of case.

After the fob has been opened, remove the mechanical key, and then open the electronic portion of the car. Install the new battery and snap back the shell. If your key fob still does not work after this, it could be an issue with the remote key fob repair start system of your vehicle. This will require an expert to determine the cause. If this is the case, a reputable mechanic should be able assist you. If you require assistance with your vehicle, you can contact roadside assistance.

Broken Key Ring

There are a few options you can do when your key fob does not work because the ring is broken. Examine if you can locate the broken part inside the ignition. If it's still in there the ignition, take it out without damaging either the ignition lock or the door lock. Call a locksmith if you have difficulty removing the key. They have special tools to safely remove a damaged key from the ignition.

Another reason for a broken car key is corrosion on the circuit board or frame. You can clean the board with rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. This will eliminate the corrosion and prevent damage to the contact pads.

You can repair a damaged ring by using a thick wire or nail to seal the hole. Superglue can be used to repair car key a broken key ring. After cleaning the ring with a wet 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 can appear appealing, but they're only an interim measure. It is recommended to hire an experienced locksmith for long-term keyless entry repairs. They have the tools and know-how to repair a damaged car key quickly and efficiently. They can replace the battery and reprogram the key fob in the event of need.

Broken Key Blade

Key blades can 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 main problem is that the metal blade broke off from the case.

Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is one solution to repair it. You can then use pliers or tweezers to grab the broken 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 as it could cause the lock tumbler to break.

If you are unable to remove the broken piece of key, call an emergency locksmith. They're equipped with special tools to safely remove keys without causing any further damage.

You can also apply super glue to fix a broken key. Apply a small amount of glue to the edges and press them together. Then, wait until the glue has dried before inserting your key into the lock. However, this method isn't reliable and you might have to repeat the process a few times before it is successful. Super glue might not be able to hold the key in place. So, this is more of a stopgap measure rather than a permanent solution.

Broken Plastic Loop

If the plastic loop breaks off it could render the key fob repair near me ineffective. This is a simple fix. You can use wire or a nail for finishing to replace it. Drill two holes in the broken plastic loop at each end of the wire or nail. Cut the wire or nail into a key width, and place tiny drops of superglue into each hole. Press the wire or nail into the holes to close them and let it dry.

A locksmith who sells replacement shells is a different option. They can remove the programmable component of your key, then transfer it to the new shell and cut an entirely new blade for less than a complete replacement cost.

This isn't the best solution, but will allow you to travel again if your key has broken in half. However, it could be difficult to repair the key blade if it is in the ignition. If you're not cautious you could use a hair clip or a needle to remove the broken part from the ignition. The best solution is to call an expert locksmith who has tools for safely removing broken keys from the ignition. You can also request a new key that is made using the correct cuts for the ignition of your car.

Broken Master Key

If a key is broken inside the lock, you'll need to attempt to retrieve it before it is completely destroyed. You can make use of tweezers, lubricants, and needle nose pliers for grabbing the fragments of a damaged key.

Spray the inside of the lock with WD-40 or graphite powder. You can also try the hacksaw blade method, which involves gently moving the blade down the side of the broken key, and hooking onto some of the 'teeth'. If you succeed in doing this you will be able to pull out the broken key from the lock.

Another tool that is useful is a spiral key extractor that can be found in many hardware stores. It is a thin, flexible bar with spiral threads, that can be inserted into the keyway, near and then bent to get into the damaged section of the key repair service. Once it has been snagged onto the serrations, it is possible to twist it in a circular direction and lever it against the broken portion of the key to pull it out.

Before contacting a locksmith, attempt to take out the damaged master key before calling a locksmith. If you are unable to take the broken piece off then you'll have to contact a professional locksmith. A locksmith can give you an entirely new key that will be programmed using your car transponder.