How to Repair Car Keys

The car keys aren't big and might not seem to be important, but they're vital for the operation of your vehicle. Replacing a traditional key or a modern transponder key could cost as much as $200.

There are many ways to repair your car keys yourself for just a fraction of the cost. This article will address the most common car keys issues as well as their DIY fixes.

Dead Key Fob Batteries

Cars are equipped with a remote key fob that allows opening the doors, trunk and tailgate easier than ever before. However, the battery inside the device can fail. Fortunately, there are a few tricks that can be used to solve this problem in the event of a need.

Examine if your car is still in the ignition mode. If it is the battery of the key fob may be low, but not dead. To test this, push the button on the key fob right against the ignition button. If it works, the battery is likely fine and only needs to be changed.

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

Open the electronic portion of your car after you have removed the mechanical key. Then, insert the battery replacement and then snap the shell together. If the key fob doesn't work after this procedure, there could be a more serious issue with your car's remote start system that requires a professional to diagnose. If this is the case, a reputable mechanic should be able to help you. If you need help with your vehicle and you need help, you can call roadside assistance.

Broken Key Ring

If your key fob isn't functioning because the ring broke there are a few things you could try. Check to see if you can locate 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 getting it out, contact a locksmith for help. They have tools that can safely remove a damaged or broken 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 by using a cotton swab and ruby alcohol. This will remove any corrosion and ensure the contact pads don't get damaged.

If your key isn't working because of a broken ring or was damaged, you might be able fix it using a sturdy wire or nail to plug the hole. Superglue can be used to fix a broken key ring. After cleaning the ring with a moist cloth Apply a small amount superglue on each end of the nail or wire. Let the pieces dry and then press them in place. These DIY solutions might seem appealing, however they are only a temporary solution. It's best to hire an experienced locksmith for long-term repairs. They have the knowledge and tools to fix damaged keys quickly and efficiently. They can replace the battery and reprogram the key fob in the event of need.

Broken Key Blade

Some key blades break from a lot of wear and tear. If this happens, it's probably time to purchase a new key. This problem isn't nearly as serious as you might think at first. The primary problem is that the metal blade has snapped away from the case.

Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is a method to fix the problem. Then you can use pliers pins, or tweezers to grab the broken end of the key and pull it out. If the key is magnetic, you can also use a magnet to help pull it out. Be careful 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 remove the broken piece of the key, contact a locksmith right away. They have the right tools to safely extract keys without causing damage.

Super glue can be used to fix an open lock that has snapped. Apply a small amount of 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 is not very secure, and you could need to repeat the process several times before it is successful. Super glue may not hold the key together. Therefore, this is more of a temporary measure rather than an option that can last.

Broken Plastic Loop

If your key fob's plastic loop breaks off, it can make the key useless. This is a relatively easy fix. As a replacement, you can use a thick wire or finishing nail. For each end of the wire or nail you need to drill two holes into the loop of plastic. Cut the wire or nail into a key width, and place tiny drops of superglue in each hole. Put the nail or wire into the holes to seal them and allow it to dry.

A locksmith who sells replacement shells is another option. They can transfer the programmable section of your key to the new shell, and then cut new blades for a fraction of the cost.

It's not the best solution, but it'll bring you back on the road if your key split in half. However, it can be difficult to fix the key blade if it is in the ignition. If you're not careful you could employ a hair clip, or needle to remove the damaged part from the ignition. The best option is to contact a locksmith with special tools for safely removing broken keys from the ignition. They can also create a new key with the proper cuts for your ignition, so it will work properly when it is 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 employ 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 employ the hacksaw blade method that involves moving the blade along the side of a broken key and grasping onto a few of its 'teeth.' If you are successful then you should be able to remove the broken key.

Another helpful tool is an extractor for keys spiral, that is available in many hardware stores. remote car key repairs has a thin flexible bar with spiral threads, which can be inserted into the keyway and then bent to dig into the broken part of the key. Once it has gotten caught on the serrations, you can turn the bar around and then pull it against the damaged section of the key.

Before calling a locksmith, try to get rid of the broken master key before calling a locksmith. If you're unable to remove the broken piece it's time to call in the professionals. A locksmith can give you a new key that will be programmed using the transponder in your car.