How to Repair Car Keys

Car keys may seem tiny and insignificant, but they are crucial to the operation of your vehicle. The cost of replacing the traditional or modern transponder car keys can range from $200 to upwards of $200.

There are methods to repair key your car keys at home for only a fraction of the cost. This article will address the most frequent car keys issues and their DIY solutions.

Dead Key Fob Batteries

Cars come with remote key repair fobs that makes opening the doors, trunk and tailgate easier than ever. The battery of this device is prone to dying. There are, however, a few techniques that can be employed to fix this issue in the event of a need.

First, make sure that the car is still in ignition mode. If it is, the battery on the key fob could simply be low instead of dead. To test this, press the button on the key fob right against the ignition button. If this works, the battery is probably in good condition and has to be replaced.

To replace the battery in the fob, you need to open the case with an screwdriver. Do not apply too much force, as this may cause the fob's casing to split. If the fob doesn't open, try using your pry tool more than once around the outside of case.

Once the fob is opened then remove the mechanical key and then open the electronic portion of the car. Install the new battery and then snap back the shell. If the key fob doesn't work after this, it may be that there is a larger issue with the remote key repair start system in your car. This requires an expert to determine the cause. If this is the case, a reliable mechanic should be able assist you. You can also contact roadside assistance for help with your vehicle if needed.

Broken Key Ring

There are a few options to do when your key fob does not function because the ring is broken. Check to see if you can find the broken piece within the ignition. If it's still inside it, remove it without damaging the ignition lock or the door lock. If you're having difficulty removing it, call a locksmith for assistance. They have special tools that can safely remove a damaged key from the ignition.

Another common cause of the car key breaking is corrosion on the circuit board or frame. You can clean the board with rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. This will eliminate the corrosion and prevent damage to the contact pads.

If your key won't start because of a broken ring or was damaged, you might be able to repair it with a strong wire or nail to seal the hole. Superglue can also be used to repair a broken ring. First, clean the damaged rings with a damp cloth and then apply a small amount of superglue to the ends of the wire or nail. Apply the glue to the ring and let them dry prior to using your vehicle. These DIY solutions might appear appealing, but they're only an interim measure. It is best to employ an skilled locksmith for any long-term repairs. They have the knowledge and tools to keyless entry repair the broken key quickly and efficiently. They can even replace the battery on the key fob and change it's programming if required.

Broken Key Blade

Some key blades might break due to wear and tear. If this occurs, you must purchase a new one. Luckily, this problem isn't as severe as it appears at first. The main problem is that the metal blade has snapped away from the case.

Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is a way to fix the problem. Then, you can use pliers or tweezers to grasp the broken end of the key and pull it. If the key is magnetic, you can also try using a magnet to pull it out. Just be careful not to use a magnetic tool on an ignition key since it could cause the tumbler in the lock to break.

Call a locksmith immediately when you are unable remove the broken piece of the key. They have special tools that let them safely remove keys without causing further damage.

You can also use super glue to fix a broken key. Apply a small amount to the edges and press them together. After that, wait until the glue has dried before you insert your key into the lock. But this method isn't very reliable and you may have to repeat the process a few times before it is successful. Super glue might not be able to hold the key in place. This is more of a temporary solution rather than an option that is permanent.

Broken Plastic Loop

If the loop of plastic on your key fob fails it could make the key useless. It's a fairly simple fix. You can make use of wire or a nail for finishing as a replacement. For each end of the wire or nail, drill two holes into the plastic loop. Cut the wire or nail to the desired width and then place a drop of superglue in each hole. Press the wire or nail into the holes until it closes them and allow it to dry.

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

It's not the best solution, but it can get you back on the road in case your key split in half. However, it can be difficult to repair the key blade if it's in the ignition. You could try using a hair clip or a needle extractor tool to pull the broken part out of the ignition, but it's risky if not cautious. Call a locksmith with special tools to safely remove damaged keys from ignitions. You can also request a new key that is made using the correct cuts to fit the ignition of your vehicle.

Broken Master Key

You'll need to try to retrieve the key before it's completely destroyed. You can make use of tweezers, lubricants, and needle nose pliers to grasp the fragments of a damaged key.

To start, spray the inside of your lock with a lubricant like WD-40 or graphite powder. You could also try the hacksaw blade method, that involves carefully sliding the blade down along the side of the broken key and connecting to a few of the 'teeth'. If you are able to do this you should be able pull out the broken key from the lock.

Another useful tool is a spiral key extractor, that is available in many hardware stores. This tool is a thin rod with spiral threads that can be placed in the keyway, and then bent to the broken portion of the key. Once it has caught onto the serrations, you can turn the bar around and pull it against the broken part of the key.

Before calling a locksmith, try to remove the broken master key. If you're unable to pull the piece out, you need to call in the big guns - let a locksmith cut you a new key and reprogram it using your car's transponder.