How to Repair Car Keys<br /><br />The car keys are small and may not be considered important, but they're essential for the proper operation of your vehicle. Replacing a traditional key or a transponder one can cost upwards of $200.<br /><br />However, there are ways to fix your car keys at home for a fraction of the cost. This article will discuss some of the most common car keys problems and their DIY solutions.<br /><br />Dead Key Fob Batteries<br /><br />The remote key fobs for keys that come with cars make it easier than ever before to open the trunk, doors and the tailgate. However, the battery inside this device can die. There are some tricks you can use to solve this issue fast.<br /><br />First, determine if the car is still in ignition mode. If it is, the key fob battery may simply be low instead of dead. To test this, press the button on the key fob right up against the vehicle's ignition button. If this is successful, the battery is probably in good condition and only needs to be changed.<br /><br />To replace the fob battery, start by prying the case open using a screwdriver or watch-type tool. Be cautious not to press too hard because this could cause the fob to break apart. If the fob won't open Try using your pry tool more than once around the outside of case.<br /><br />Once the fob is opened then remove the mechanical key and open the electronic section of the car. Then insert the replacement battery and then snap the shell back together. If the key fob doesn't work after this, there may be a more serious problem with your car's remote start system that requires a professional diagnostic. If this is the case, a reliable mechanic should be able help you. You can also contact roadside assistance for help with your vehicle in case you need it.<br /><br />Broken Key Ring<br /><br />There are a few steps you can do if your key fob doesn't function because the ring is broken. Examine if you can find the broken piece in the ignition. If it's still there it, remove it without damaging either the ignition lock or the door lock. Contact a locksmith if are having trouble getting rid of the key. They have the right tools to safely remove a damaged key from the ignition.<br /><br />Another reason that can lead to the car key breaking is the corrosion of the circuit board or plastic frame. Clean the board with the help of rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. This will eliminate corrosion and ensure the contact pads don't get damaged.<br /><br />If <a href="https://www.thekeylab.co.uk/carkeyrepair/">remote key repair</a> isn't working because the ring broke, you may be able to repair it by using a thick wire or nail to close the hole. Superglue can be used to repair a broken key ring. First, clean the damaged ring with a damp towel and then apply a small amount superglue to the ends of the nail or wire. Allow the pieces to dry, and then press them into place. These DIY solutions may seem appealing, but they are only a temporary solution. For long-term repairs, it's best to work with an expert locksmith. They have the expertise and tools to fix a broken key quickly and effectively. They can replace the battery and reprogram your key fob, if needed.<br /><br />Broken Key Blade<br /><br /><br /><br />Some key blades can break from a lot of wear and tear. If this occurs, you ought to purchase a new one. The issue isn't as serious as you believe at first. The issue is that the metal blade has snapped away from the case.<br /><br />Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is a method to fix the problem. Then, you can use pliers, pins, or tweezers to grab the end of the broken key and remove it. If the key is magnetic, you could also use a magnet to pull it out. Be cautious not to use a magnetic tool on an ignition key because it could cause the tumbler of the lock to break.<br /><br />Call a locksmith immediately in the event that you are unable to remove the broken piece of the key. They're equipped with special tools that can safely remove keys without causing further damage.<br /><br />You can also apply super glue to fix a snapped key. Apply a small amount to the edges and press them together. After that, wait until the glue dries before inserting your key into the lock. This method isn't extremely reliable, and you might need to repeat the process several times before it does the trick. Plus the super glue may not be enough to hold the key together. This is more of a temporary fix than a permanent solution.<br /><br />Broken Plastic Loop<br /><br />If the plastic loop is damaged, it can make the key useless. Fortunately, this is an easy fix. You can use thick wire or a nail for finishing as a replacement. For each end of the nail or wire make two holes in the loop of plastic. Cut the wire or nail to key width and place the superglue drop in each hole. Apply the nail or wire into the holes and allow them to dry.<br /><br />Another option is to purchase the replacement shell from a locksmith that sells them. They can remove the programmable part of your key, then transfer it to the new shell, and cut an entirely new blade for less than the full replacement cost.<br /><br />It's not the ideal solution, but it'll get you back on the road if your key snapped in half. It's not easy to repair if the key blade is in the ignition however. You can try using a hair clip or a needle extractor tool to remove the damaged part out of the ignition, but it's risky if not cautious. The best option is to contact a locksmith with special tools for safely removing broken keys from the ignition. You can also get a new key that is made using the correct cuts to fit the ignition of your vehicle.<br /><br />Broken Master Key<br /><br />If a key is broken inside the lock, you'll need to find it before it gets completely destroyed. There are a variety of methods you can employ, such as using lubricants as well as tools such as needle nose pliers and tweezers to grab a fragment of the damaged key and remove it.<br /><br />To begin, spray the inside of your lock with a lubricant like graphite powder or WD-40. You could also try the hacksaw blade method which involves gently sliding the blade down along the side of the broken key, and connecting to a few of the teeth - if you succeed in doing this, you will be able to remove the broken key from the lock.<br /><br />Another tool that is useful is an extractor for keys spiral, which you can find in a variety of hardware stores. It is a thin rod that is flexible and has spiral threads that can be placed in the keyway and then bent to form the broken part of the key. Once it is firmly anchored to the serrations, you can turn the bar in a circle and then pull it against the broken section of the key.<br /><br />Before contacting a locksmith, try to get rid of the broken master key. If you're not able to remove the broken piece then you'll have to call in the professionals. Locksmiths can create you a new key that will be programmed with the transponder in your car.<br /><br />