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How to Repair Car Keys

Car keys may appear tiny and insignificant, however they are essential to the 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 many ways to repair your car keys yourself for less than the cost. This article will cover the most frequently encountered car keys problems and their DIY solutions.

Dead Key Fob Battery

Cars are equipped with remote key fobs that allows opening the doors and trunk easier than ever. However, the battery in the device can fail. However, there are a few tricks you can employ to resolve this issue in a pinch.

First, check if the car is in ignition mode. If so the battery of the key fob could be low rather than dead. To test this, press the button on the fob against the ignition button on the vehicle. If this works, then the battery is probably in good condition and will only need to be changed.

To replace the battery in the fob, you need to open the case with a screwdriver. Be cautious not to apply too much pressure because this could cause the fob to break in two. If  remote car key repair near me  fob isn't opening open with ease, try placing your pry tool into several places around the outside of the case.

Once the fob is opened, remove the mechanical key and then open the electronic part of the car. Then insert the replacement battery and then snap the shell back together. If the key fob doesn't work after this procedure, there could be a bigger issue with your car's remote start system that requires a professional diagnostic. If this is the case, a reliable mechanic should be able help you. You can also call roadside assistance to assist with your vehicle in case you need it.

Broken Key Ring

If your key fob isn't functioning because the ring broke there are a few things you might try. First, you should check to see if your broken piece is still inside the ignition. If it is, you should remove it without damaging the lock on the ignition or door lock. Contact a locksmith if are having trouble taking the key off. They have specialized tools that can safely remove a damaged key from the ignition.

Another common cause of broken car keys is corrosion on the circuit board or plastic frame. You can clean the circuit board using a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol. This will get rid of the corrosion and protect to the contact pads.

If your key isn't working because the ring broke or was damaged, you might be able fix it using a sturdy wire or nail to seal the hole. You can also use superglue to repair 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 nail or wire. Apply the glue to the ring and let them dry before using your car. These DIY solutions might seem appealing, but they're really just a stopgap measure. For long-term repairs, it's best to hire an experienced locksmith. They have the tools and knowledge to repair a damaged car key quickly and efficiently. They can even replace the battery in your key fob and change it's programming if required.

Broken Key Blade

Some key blades can break because of a lot wear and tear. If this occurs, you must buy a new one. The issue isn't as serious as you might think at first. The main problem is that the metal blade snapped off the case.

Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is a way to repair it. Then you can use pliers, tweezers, or a pin to grasp the damaged key and remove it. You may also employ a magnet in the event that the key is magnetic. Be cautious not to use a magnetic tool on an ignition key since it could cause the tumbler of the lock to break.

If you're not able to take the broken piece of the key, contact an expert locksmith immediately. They have tools that let them safely remove keys without causing damage.

Super glue can be used to fix a snapped lock. Apply a small amount glue to the edges of the break and press them together. Make sure the glue has dried before inserting the key into the lock. This method isn't extremely reliable, and you might have to repeat it a few times before it does the trick. Super glue might not be able to hold the key in place. This is more of a stopgap measure rather than an option that can last.

Broken Plastic Loop

If your key fob's plastic loop gets damaged it can render the key useless. Luckily, this is an easy fix. You can make use of wire or a nail for finishing 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 to the desired width and then put a drop of superglue in each hole. Then, press the wire or nail into the holes and let them dry.

Another option is to purchase an alternative shell from a locksmith who sells them. They can remove the programmable part of your key, then transfer it to the new shell, and cut the new blade for less than a complete replacement cost.

This isn't the best option, but it can allow you to travel again if your key has broken in half. It can be difficult to repair if the key blade is in the ignition, however. If you are not careful you could use a hair clip or a needle to take the broken part from the ignition. Contact a locksmith who has special tools to safely remove broken keys from ignitions. They can also make you a new key with the appropriate cuts for your vehicle's ignition to ensure that it functions correctly when inserted into the lock.

Broken Master Key

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

Spray the inside of the lock with WD-40 or graphite powder. You can also try the hacksaw blade method, that involves carefully sliding the blade down along the edge of the broken key and connecting to a few of the 'teeth' - if you succeed in doing this, you should be able remove the broken key from the lock.

Many hardware stores offer the spiral key extraction tool. This tool has a thin flexible rod with spiral threads that can be placed in the keyway, and later bent into the broken part of the key. Once it has been snagged onto the serrations, you can turn it in a circular motion and push it against the damaged section of the key to take it out.

Before contacting a locksmith attempt to take out the damaged master key. If you can't get the piece out, it's time to call the big guns and let a locksmith cut you a new key and reprogram it to the transponder of your car.