5 Laws That Anyone Working In Repair Car Keys Should Be Aware Of
how to repair car key fob to Repair Car Keys
The car keys aren't big and may not be considered important, but they're essential to the functioning of your vehicle. The cost of replacing the traditional or modern transponder car key repair shop near me keys could be as high as $200.
There are ways to fix your car keys yourself at less than the cost. This article will discuss the most frequently encountered car keys issues as well as the DIY solutions to fix them.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
Cars are equipped with remote key fob repair near me key fobs that allows opening the doors and trunk easier than ever before. However, the battery in this device can die. Fortunately, there are some techniques that can be employed to solve this problem in an emergency.
Examine if your car is still in the ignition mode. If it is, the battery on the key fob could be drained instead of dead. To test this, press the button on the fob against the ignition button of the vehicle. If it does not work, the battery is probably in good condition and just requires to be replaced.
To replace the fob battery, start by prying open the case with an instrument like a screwdriver, or watch-type tool. Don't apply too much force as this may cause the fob's case split. If the fob isn't opening try prying the tool more than once around the outside of the case.
Once the fob is open then remove the mechanical key and then open the electronic portion of the car. Then, you can insert the replacement battery and then snap the shell back together. If the key fob isn't working after this, it may be due to an problem with the remote start system of your car key fob repair near me. This will require a professional to diagnose. If this is the case, a reputable mechanic should be able to assist you. If you require assistance with your vehicle, you can contact roadside assistance.
Broken Key Ring
If your key fob isn't functioning because the ring broke, there are a few things you could try. First, you must 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. If you're having difficulty removing it, call a locksmith for help. They have special tools to safely remove a broken key from the ignition.
Another reason for the car key breaking 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 eliminate corrosion and ensure the contact pads don't get damaged.
You can repair a damaged ring using a strong wire or nail to seal the hole. Superglue can be used to repair the broken key ring. First, clean the broken ring with a damp cloth and then apply a small amount superglue on each end of the wire or nail. Let the pieces dry and then press them together. These DIY solutions can look appealing, but they're only an interim measure. It is recommended to hire an experienced locksmith for long-term repairs. They have the experience and tools to fix the broken key quickly and efficiently. They can even replace the battery on the key fob and reprogram it if needed.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades break from a lot of wear and tear. If this happens, you should probably buy a new one. Fortunately, this issue isn't as bad as it appears at first glance. The primary issue is that the metal blade has broken off from the case.
Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is one solution to repair it. Then you can use pliers, tweezers, or a pin to grasp the broken end of the key and remove it. You could also use a magnet if the key is magnetic. Use a magnet to assist you remove the key, but take care to not sever the tumbler of the lock.
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.
You can also use super glue to repair a snapped key. Apply a small amount of glue to the edges and press them in. Wait until the glue is dry before inserting the 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. Plus the super glue may not be strong enough to hold the key together. This is more of a temporary fix than an option that is permanent.
Broken Plastic Loop
If the loop of plastic on your key fob is damaged it could render the key useless. Fortunately, this is a fairly simple fix. For a replacement, you can use an extremely thick wire or a finishing nail. Drill two holes in the broken plastic loop for each end of the wire or nail. Cut the nail or wire to key width and place a drop of superglue on each hole. Press the nail or wire into the holes and let them dry.
A locksmith who sells replacement shells is another option. They can take out the programmable component of your key, move it to the new shell and cut an entirely new blade for less than the full replacement cost.
It's not the ideal solution, but it will get you back on the road in case your key split in half. However, it can be difficult to fix the key blade if it is in the ignition. If you are not careful you can use a hair clip or needle to remove the damaged part from the ignition. Contact a locksmith who has special tools to safely remove damaged keys from ignitions. You can also have an entirely new key made using appropriate cuts to fit the ignition of your vehicle.
Broken Master Key
You'll have to attempt to retrieve the key before it becomes completely destroyed. There are a variety of methods that you can try, such as using lubricants and tools like needle nose pliers or tweezers to pick up a piece of the broken key and remove it.
To start, spray the inside of your lock with a lubricant, such as graphite powder or WD-40. You can also employ the hacksaw blade technique that involves sliding the blade along the side of a damaged key and grabbing onto some of its teeth. If you're successful you will be able to remove the broken key.
Another helpful tool is an extractor for keys spiral, which you can find in a variety of hardware stores. It is a thin, flexible bar with spiral threads, which can be inserted into the keyway, and then bent to reach into the broken part of the key. Once it is firmly anchored to the serrations you can twist the bar around and pull it against the broken part of the key.
Before contacting a locksmith try to remove the broken master key before calling a locksmith. If you can't get an item out, you need to call the big guns to get a locksmith to cut you a brand new key and reprogram it to your car's transponder.