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How to Repair Car Keys

The car keys are small and may not seem important, but they are essential to the functioning of your car. Replacing a traditional key or a transponder one can cost upwards of $200.

There are many ways to repair your car keys yourself for just a fraction of the cost. This article will discuss the most frequently encountered car keys problems and the DIY solutions.

Dead Key Fob Battery

The remote key fobs that come with cars make it easier than ever to open the trunk, doors and tailgate. The battery inside this device is susceptible to dying. There are some tricks you can employ to fix this issue fast.

Examine if your car is still in the ignition mode. If so the battery of the key fob might be low instead of dead. To test this, press the fob's button against the ignition button on the vehicle. If this is successful, the battery is probably in good condition and needs to be replaced.

To replace the battery within the fob, pry open the case with an screwdriver. Be cautious not to apply too much pressure as this could cause the fob to break in two. If the fob doesn't seem to be coming open easily, try wedge your pry tool in multiple places around the outside of the case.


Once the fob is open, remove the mechanical key and open the electronic section of the car. Install the new battery and then snap back the shell. If the key fob won't work after this, there could be a more serious issue with your car's remote start system that requires a professional diagnosis. A reputable mechanic will in a position to assist you if this is the situation. You can also call roadside assistance to assist with your vehicle, if you require it.

Broken Key Ring

If your key fob isn't working because the ring has broken there are a few things you could try. The first step is to see if the broken 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. Call a locksmith if you are having trouble taking the key off. They have specialized tools that are able to safely remove the damaged key from the ignition.

A damaged car key could be caused by corrosion on the plastic frame or circuit board. You can clean the circuit board by using a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol. This will get rid of the corrosion and prevent damage to the contact pads.

If your key isn't starting because the ring broke, you may be able to repair it using a sturdy wire or nail to plug the hole. You can also use superglue to fix a broken ring. First, clean the damaged ring with a damp towel and then apply a small amount of superglue on each end of the wire or nail. Allow the pieces to dry, and then press them into place. These DIY solutions can appear appealing, but they're only an interim measure. For long-term repairs, you'll want to hire an expert locksmith. They have the tools and know-how to fix a broken car key quickly and efficiently. They can replace the battery and reprogram your key fob in the event of need.

Broken Key Blade

Some key blades can break because of a lot wear and tear. If this happens, you should probably buy a new one. Fortunately, the issue isn't as bad as it might seem at first glance. The primary issue is that the metal blade snapped off the case.

Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is one way to repair it. Then, you can make use of pliers or tweezers grab the broken end of the key and pull it. key repair can also use a magnet if the key is magnetic. Be cautious not to use a magnet on an ignition key as it could cause the lock tumbler to break.

If you're not able to take the broken piece of the key, call a locksmith right away. They're equipped with special tools to safely remove keys without causing any further damage.

You can also use super glue to fix a snapped key. Apply a small amount to the edges and press them together. After that, wait until the glue has dried before inserting your key into the lock. This method isn't secure and you may need repeat the process several times before it is successful. Additionally, the super glue may not be strong enough to keep the key in place. This is more of a temporary fix than an option that is permanent.

Broken Plastic Loop

If the plastic loop on your key fob breaks it could cause the key to become ineffective. Luckily, this is a fairly simple fix. As a replacement alternative, you can opt for wire that is thick or a finishing nail. For each end of the wire or nail you need to drill two holes into the plastic loop. Cut the nail or wire to the desired width and then put a drop of superglue in each hole. Press the nail or wire into the holes and allow them to dry.

A locksmith who sells replacement shells is another option. They can remove the programmable component of your key, then transfer it to the new shell and cut the new blade for less than a complete replacement cost.

It's not the best solution, but it will help you get back on the road if your key split in half. However, it can be difficult to repair the blade of the key if it's in the ignition. You can try using a hair clip or needle extractor tool to remove the damaged piece of the ignition, but this can be risky if not cautious. The best solution is to call a locksmith with special tools to safely remove broken keys from the ignition. You can also have an entirely new key made using the correct cuts for the ignition of your car.

Broken Master Key

You'll need to to retrieve the key before it becomes completely destroyed. There are several methods you can employ, such as using lubricants and tools like needle nose pliers or tweezers to grab a fragment of the key that has been broken and then remove it.

To begin, spray the inside of your lock with a lubricant such as WD-40 or graphite powder. You could also try the hacksaw method, that 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 take the broken key from the lock.

Many hardware stores sell a spiral key extraction tool. This tool is a thin flexible rod with spiral threads that can be inserted into the keyway, and later bent to the broken portion of the key. Once it has been snagged onto the serrations, it is possible to twist it in a circular direction and press it against the broken part of the key to get it out.

It's worth trying to remove a master key that's broken prior to calling a professional locksmith. If you're not able to remove the broken piece, you'll need to call in the professionals. A locksmith can give you an entirely new key that will be programmed with your car transponder.

Member since: Tuesday, October 1, 2024

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