The Top Reasons Why People Succeed In The Repair Car Keys Industry
How to Repair Car Keys
Car keys may appear tiny and insignificant, however they are crucial to the operation of your vehicle. The cost of replacing a traditional or contemporary transponder car key could be as high as $200.
There are solutions to fix your car keys yourself at less than the cost. This article will cover some of the most common car keys issues and their DIY solutions.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
The remote key fobs that come with cars make it simpler than ever to open the trunk, doors and the tailgate. The battery in this device is susceptible to dying. There are, however, a few tricks that can be used to resolve this issue in a pinch.
First, make sure that the car is still in ignition mode. If it is, then the battery on the key fob could simply be low instead of dead. To test this, push the button on the key fob straight against the ignition button. If this is successful, the battery is probably fine and only needs to be changed.
To replace the fob's battery, first pry the case open using a screwdriver or watch-type tool. Don't apply too much force since this may cause the fob's casing to split. If the fob isn't opening open easily, try wedge your pry tool into several places on the outside of the case.
After the fob has been opened take out the mechanical key, and then open the electronic portion of the car. Then insert the replacement battery and then snap the shell together. If the key fob isn't working after this, there could be a bigger issue with your car's remote start system that requires a professional diagnosis. If this is the case, a reliable mechanic should be able to help you. You can also call roadside assistance for assistance with your vehicle, if you require it.
Broken Key Ring
There are a few steps that you can do in the event that your key fob won't work because the ring has been broken. First, you must check to see if the damaged piece is still in the ignition. If it is, remove it without damaging the lock on the ignition or door lock. Call a locksmith if you are having difficulty taking the key off. They have special tools that allow you to 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. It is possible to clean the circuit board using the help of rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. This will eliminate the corrosion and prevent damage to the contact pads.
If your key isn't starting because the ring is broken, you may be able to fix it using a sturdy wire or nail to close the hole. You can also use superglue to repair a broken ring. First, clean the damaged ring with a damp cloth and then apply a small amount of superglue on each end of the nail or wire. Allow the pieces to dry, and then press them together. These DIY solutions might seem appealing, but they're only a temporary solution. It's best to hire an experienced locksmith for long-term repairs. They have the tools and expertise to repair a damaged car key quickly and effectively. They can even replace the battery on the key fob and change it's programming if required.
Broken Key Blade
Some key blades break because of a lot wear and tear. If this happens, it's probably time to get a new key. The issue isn't as serious as you might think at first glance. The primary issue is that the metal blade has snapped away from the case.
Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is one solution to fix it. You can then employ pliers or tweezers grasp the broken end of the key and pull it. If the key is magnetic, you can also use a magnet to help pull it out. Just be careful not to use a magnet on an ignition key since it could cause the tumbler of the lock to break.
If you're unable to remove the broken piece of key, contact an emergency locksmith. They have special tools that permit them to safely remove keys without causing damage.
You can also apply super glue to fix a broken key. Apply a small amount of glue to the edges of the break and press them together. Wait until the glue is dry before inserting the key into the lock. However, this method isn't reliable and you may have repeat the process several times before it's successful. Super glue might not be able to hold the key in place. This is more of a temporary measure rather than a permanent solution.
Broken Plastic Loop
If your key fob's plastic loop gets damaged it could render the key useless. It's a fairly simple fix. You can make use of wire or a nail for finishing to replace it. Drill two holes in the damaged loop of plastic at each end of the nail or wire. Cut the wire or nail into a key width, then place one drop of superglue into each hole. Then, press the wire or nail into the holes to close them and let it dry.
remote key repair who sells replacement shells is a different option. They can transfer the programmable section of your key to the new shell, and then cut an entirely new blade at less than the cost.
It's not the most ideal solution, but it'll get you back on the road in case your key split in half. It can be difficult to fix when the blade of the key is inside the ignition, however. If you are not careful you could make use of a hair clip or a needle to remove the damaged part from the ignition. The best choice is to contact a locksmith with special tools for safely removing broken keys from the ignition. You can also request a new key that is made using appropriate cuts for the ignition of your car.
Broken Master Key
If a key gets damaged inside the lock, you'll have to try to retrieve it before it gets completely destroyed. There are several methods you can employ, such as using lubricants as well as tools such as needle nose pliers and tweezers. These tools can grab a fragment of the broken key and then remove it.
Spray the inside of the lock with WD-40 or graphite powder. You can also try the hacksaw blade method that involves moving the blade along the side of the broken key, and then grasping a few of its teeth. If you're successful, you should be in a position to cut the damaged key.
Many hardware stores carry the spiral key extraction tool. It is a thin flexible rod with spiral threads that can be inserted into the keyway and then bent to form the broken part of the key. Once it has gotten caught on the serrations, you can turn the bar around and pull it against the damaged section of the key.
Before calling a locksmith, try to remove the broken master key. If you can't get an item out, you need to call the big guns - get a locksmith to cut you a brand new key and reprogram it using the transponder of your car.