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How to Repair Car Keys Car keys may seem tiny and insignificant, but they are vital for the proper operation of your vehicle. The cost of replacing the traditional or modern transponder car key can range from $200 to upwards of $200. However, there are ways to repair your car keys at home with only a fraction of the cost. This article will go over some of the most frequent car key problems and the DIY solutions. Dead Key Fob Batteries The remote key fobs that are included with cars make it simpler than ever before to open the trunk, doors and tailgate. The battery in this device is susceptible to dying. There are, however, some tricks you can employ to solve this problem in an emergency. First, make sure that the car is still in ignition mode. If so the battery of the key fob could be low rather than dead. To test this, press the button on the fob against the ignition button of the vehicle. If this works, the battery is probably working fine and has to be replaced. To replace the battery in the fob, open the case with the screwdriver. Be careful not to apply too much force as this may cause the fob's case split. If the fob doesn't seem to be coming open easily, try wedge your pry tool into more than one place around the outside of the case. Open the electronic part of your car after you have removed the mechanical key. Insert the new battery and then snap back the shell. If the key fob isn't working after this, there may be a more serious problem with the remote start system that requires a professional diagnostic. If this is the case, a reliable mechanic should be able assist you. You can also call roadside assistance for help with your vehicle if needed. Broken Key Ring If your key fob isn't functioning because the ring has broken there are a few options you could try. The first step is to see if the broken piece is still inside the ignition. If it is, remove it without damaging the door lock or ignition lock. Contact a locksmith if are having trouble taking the key off. They have special tools that are able to safely remove keys that are damaged from the ignition. Another reason that can lead to broken car keys is corrosion on the circuit board or frame. It is possible to clean the board with the help of rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab. This will remove corrosion and ensure the contact pads don't get damaged. If your key won't start because the ring is broken it, you might be able to repair it with a strong wire or nail to close the hole. Superglue can also be used to fix a broken ring. First, clean the damaged rings with a damp cloth and then apply a small amount superglue on each end of the wire or nail. Apply the glue to the ring and let them dry before using your vehicle. These DIY solutions might appear appealing, but they're really just temporary solutions. For long-term repairs, it's best to get an experienced locksmith. They have the tools and knowledge to fix a broken car key quickly and efficiently. They can replace the battery and reprogram the key fob in the event of need. Broken Key Blade Some key blades break because of a lot wear and tear. If this happens, it's probably time to purchase a new key. Luckily, this problem isn't as severe as it appears at first. Read Even more is that the metal blade has separated from the case. Spraying lubricant into the keyhole is one way to fix the problem. You can then make use of pliers or tweezers grasp the broken end of the key and pull it. You could also employ a magnet in the event that the key is magnetic. Use a magnet as a aid to you remove the key, but be cautious to not sever the lock tumbler. Call a locksmith immediately when you are unable remove the broken piece of the key. They have special tools to safely extract keys without causing any further damage. Super glue can be used to fix the snapped lock. Apply a small amount of the glue to the edges and press them in. Make sure the glue is dry before inserting the key into the lock. But this method isn't very reliable and you may have to repeat the process a few times before it's successful. In addition the super glue may not be enough strong to keep the key in place. Therefore, this is more of a stopgap measure than an option that can last. Broken Plastic Loop If your key fob's plastic loop is damaged it could render the key ineffective. This is a relatively easy fix. You can make use of wire or a finishing nail as a replacement. For each end of the wire or nail, drill two holes into the loop of plastic. Cut the wire or nail to key width, then place one drop of superglue into each hole. Apply the nail or wire into the holes and let them dry. you can try this out is to get an alternative shell from a locksmith that sells them. They can take the programmable portion of your key, move it to the new shell, and cut the new blade for less than the full replacement cost. It's not the most ideal solution, but it will bring you back on the road in case your key broke in half. However, it can be difficult to repair the key blade if it is in the ignition. You could try using a hair clip or needle extractor tool to pull the broken part out of the ignition, but this can be risky if not careful. The best choice is to contact a locksmith who has special tools for safely removing damaged keys from the ignition. You can also get a new key made with the proper cuts for the ignition of your car. Broken Master Key If a key is broken inside the lock, you'll have to find it before it's completely destroyed. There are a few techniques that you can try, such as using lubricants and tools like needle nose pliers and tweezers to grab a fragment of the key that has been broken and remove it. Spray the inside of the lock with WD-40 or graphite powder. You can also use the hacksaw blade method, which involves moving the blade along the side of the broken key, and grasping onto a few of its teeth. If you're successful, you should be able to take the broken key out. Many hardware stores offer a spiral key extraction tool. This tool has a thin rod that is flexible and has spiral threads that can be inserted in the keyway, and then bent into the broken part of the key. Once it has hooked onto the serrations, it is possible to twist it in a circular motion, and press it against the broken portion of the key to pull it out. It's worth trying to remove the master key that is broken before calling an expert locksmith. If you are unable to get a piece out, you need to call in the big guns – have a locksmith make you a brand new key and reprogram it to your car's transponder.