10 Top Facebook Pages Of All Time About Repair Car Keys
How to Repair Car Keys Car keys might seem small and insignificant, but they are essential to the functioning of your vehicle. Replacing a traditional key or a transponder key that is modern can cost up to $200. There are solutions to fix your car keys yourself at less than the cost. This article will cover the most frequently encountered car keys issues and their DIY fixes. Dead Key Fob Battery The remote key fobs that come with cars make it easier than ever before to open the trunk, doors, and tailgate. However, the battery in this device can die. There are a few strategies you can employ to fix this problem quickly. Examine if your vehicle is still in ignition mode. If it is, the key fob's battery could be low rather than dead. To test this, press the button on the key fob up against the vehicle's ignition button. If this works, then the battery is probably in good condition and needs to be changed. To replace the fob battery, start by prying the case open using an instrument like a screwdriver, or watch-type tool. Be careful not to put too much pressure on the fob since this could cause the fob's to split in two. If the fob isn't opening open with ease, try placing your pry tool into more than one place around the outside of the case. After the fob has been opened, remove the mechanical key and then open the electronic part of the car. Install the new battery and snap it back into the shell. If the key fob doesn't work after this, there may be a more serious issue with your car's remote start system that requires a professional to diagnose. If this is the case, a reliable mechanic should be able help you. You can also call roadside assistance for help with your vehicle in case you need it. Broken Key Ring If your key fob isn't working because the ring is broken there are a few options you could try. Look to see if can locate the broken part inside the ignition. If it is, remove it without damaging the lock on the ignition or door lock. If you have trouble removing it, call a locksmith for assistance. They have the right tools to safely remove a damaged or broken key from the ignition. Another common cause of a broken car key is corrosion on the circuit board or plastic frame. You can clean the circuit board by using a cotton swab with rubbing alcohol. This will remove corrosion and ensure that the contact pads don't become damaged. You can fix a broken rings by using a thick nail or wire to close the hole. Superglue can be used to fix the broken key ring. First, clean the damaged rings with a damp cloth and then apply a small amount superglue to each end of the wire or nail. Press the pieces together and let them dry before using your vehicle. These DIY solutions might seem appealing, but they're only a stopgap measure. For long-term repairs, it's best to hire an expert locksmith. They have the knowledge and tools to fix a broken key quickly and effectively. They can even replace the battery inside your key fob and reprogram it if needed. Broken Key Blade Some key blades break because of a lot wear and tear. If this happens, it's probably time to buy a new key. The issue isn't as serious as you think at first glance. The primary problem is that the metal blade has snapped away from the case. Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is a way to fix it. Then, you can use pliers tweezers, or a pin to grasp the end of the broken key and take it out. If the key is magnetic, you could also try using a magnetic tool to pull it out. Use a magnet to help you remove the key, but take care to not break the lock tumbler. Contact a locksmith right away in the event that you are unable to take out the damaged part of the key. They have special tools that permit them to safely remove keys without causing further damage. You can also try super glue to fix a snapped key. Apply a small amount glue to the edges of the crack and press them together. After that, wait until the glue is dry before you insert your key into the lock. This method isn't extremely secure, and you could have to repeat it a few times before it is successful. car key repair company may not be able to hold the key in place. This is more of a temporary fix than an option that is permanent. Broken Plastic Loop If your key fob's plastic loop is damaged it can render the key ineffective. It's a fairly simple fix. For a replacement alternative, you can opt for a thick wire or finishing nail. For each end of the nail or wire you need to drill two holes into the plastic loop. Cut the wire or nail to a key width, then place the superglue drop in each hole. Then, press the wire or nail into the holes until it closes them and allow it to dry. A locksmith who sells replacement shells is an alternative option. They can take out the programmable portion of your key, transfer it to the new shell, and cut an entirely new blade for less than the full replacement cost. It's not the most ideal solution, but it'll get you back on the road if your key split in half. It can be difficult to fix when the key blade is in the ignition, however. If you're not careful you can use a hair clip or needle to remove the broken part from the ignition. Get a locksmith equipped with special tools to safely remove damaged keys from ignitions. They can also design new keys with the correct cuts for your ignition to ensure that it functions perfectly when it is put into the lock. Broken Master Key If a key breaks inside the lock, you'll have to attempt to retrieve it before it is completely destroyed. There are several methods that you can try, such as using lubricants and tools like needle nose pliers and tweezers. These tools can pick up a piece of the key that has been broken and then remove it. Spray the inside of the lock with WD-40 or a graphite powder. You may also try the hacksaw method, which involves gently sliding the blade along the edge 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. Many hardware stores sell the spiral key extraction tool. It's a thin and 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 is firmly anchored to the serrations, you can turn the bar around and then pull it against the broken section of the key. It's worth attempting to remove a master key that's broken prior to calling an expert locksmith. If you're not able to get rid of the broken piece then you'll have to call in the professionals. A locksmith can make you a new key that can be programmed with the transponder of your car.