How to Repair Car Keys

The car keys are small and may not seem important, but they're essential for the operation of your car. Replacing a traditional or a modern transponder key can cost up to $200.

There are ways to fix your car keys yourself at a fraction of the price. This article will discuss the most common car keys issues and the DIY solutions to fix them.

Dead Key Fob Batteries

Cars are equipped with a remote key fob that allows opening the doors, trunk and tailgate more convenient than ever. However, the battery inside this device can die. There are, however, a few techniques that can be employed to fix this issue in a pinch.

First, determine if the car is still in ignition mode. If so, the key fob's battery may be low, but not dead. To test this, push the button on the key fob right up against the vehicle's ignition button. If it works, the battery is likely fine and will only need to be replaced.

To replace the fob's battery, start by prying the case off using an instrument like a screwdriver, or price watch-type tool. Be careful not to apply too much force since this may cause the fob's case to split. If the fob isn't opening, try using your pry tool more than once around the outside of case.

After the fob has been opened, remove the mechanical key and then open the electronic section of the car. Insert the new battery and snap it back into the shell. If the key fob isn't working after this, it may be that there is an issue with the remote key fob repairs start system of your vehicle. This requires an expert to identify. If this is the case, a reputable mechanic should be able to help you. You can also reach out to roadside assistance to assist with your vehicle, if you require it.

Broken Key Ring

If your key fob isn't working because the ring is broken there are a few options you might try. First, you must check to see if the damaged piece is still in the ignition. If it's still in there the ignition, take it out without causing damage to the ignition lock or the door lock. If you have trouble removing it, call a locksmith for assistance. They have tools that can safely remove a damaged key from the ignition.

Another reason that can lead to the car key breaking is the corrosion of the circuit board or plastic frame. You can clean the circuit board using cotton swab. This will eliminate the corrosion and prevent damage to the contact pads.

You can repair a damaged ring using a strong nail or wire to close the hole. Superglue can also be used to repair a broken ring. First, clean the broken ring with a damp cloth and then apply a small amount superglue to the ends of the wire or nail. Let the pieces dry and then press them into place. These DIY solutions might seem appealing, but they're only temporary solutions. It is recommended to hire an experiencedf your key into the new shell and cut new blades for only a fraction of the price.

It's not the best solution, but it will get you back on the road if your key broke in half. However, it could be difficult to repair the key blade if it's in the ignition. If you are not careful you can employ a hair clip, or needle to remove the broken piece from the ignition. The best solution is to contact a locksmith who has special tools for safely removing damaged keys from the ignition. They can also create a new key with the appropriate cuts for the ignition of your vehicle to ensure that it functions correctly when inserted into the lock.

Broken Master Key

You'll need to to retrieve the key before it is completely destroyed. You can make use of tweezers, lubricants, and needle nose pliers to grab the broken fragment of a key.

Spray the inside of the lock with WD-40 or a graphite powder. You could also try the hacksaw method, which involves carefully sliding the blade down along the side of the broken key and hooking onto some of the 'teeth' - if you are able to do 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 put into the keyway and bent to get into the broken part of the key. Once it has hooked onto the serrations, it is possible to twist it in a circular direction and press it against the broken portion of the key to get it out.

It's worth trying to remove a broken master key before calling a professional locksmith. If you're unable to pull an item out, it's time to call the big guns to have a locksmith cut you a new key and reprogram it to the transponder in your car.