How to Repair a Dead Car Key
Extreme cold or extreme heat can cause a vehicle to stop working. It is best to wait a few minutes before replacing it.
If your car keys get damaged it's a huge trouble. It occurs at the most inconvenient time! There are a variety of ways you can repair a broken car key that don't involve paying for a new one.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
Modern key fobs allow us to open trunks, doors and tailgates without having search for a key. Some key fobs have a built in key that can be utilized to start our vehicles. However, these devices are dependent on a small battery that is the power source for their remote functions. If this battery dies and the key fob stops working, it will not be able to send a signal to trigger the vehicle. Luckily, there are several ways you can fix the problem and get your car functioning again.
First, try to determine if your key fob is in fact dead. If it appears dead, you will need to replace the batteries. You can do this yourself by removing the fob from its clip, or using a flat-head screwdriver. Be careful not to apply too much pressure or you may damage the fob. It's also important to make sure you are replacing the correct type of battery. Some models may require a different battery. If car key repair cost of the kind of battery your car needs the most common place to look is the details in your owner's manual or visit an Interstate All Battery Center to get a specialist in battery assistance you.
It is possible to revive a key fob that isn't dead by moving closer to the car. Most key fobs use RFID (radio frequency identification) which operates at a short range. The ignition system needs to be able to detect the signal. You can unlock your car or even start it by moving a few inches nearer.
Many car manufacturers include a backup mechanism that can be activated when the battery for the key fob is dead. Ford, for example, has a slot that is devoted to the key fob. When inserted correctly the key fob can be used to start the engine of the car. Check your owner's manual for details on how to locate this slot and how to insert the key fob. If you are unable to start your car using this method, make sure to call roadside assistance for assistance.
Broken Key Ring
The internal chip in the key fob is what transmits to your car's immobilizer to allow it to start the motor. This chip can be damaged or there may be programming errors. If this occurs the key fob won't be able transmit the correct identification code, and your car won't begin. In some instances the problem with a defective transponder key may also be caused by physical damage or wear and tear to the key shell or contact pads.
Often the moment a key fob begins to struggle with the vehicle's immobilizer system and you notice specific warning indicators on your dashboard. This could be error messages flashing lights, or the key is not locking the vehicle. If you see these warnings, contact your local locksmith immediately to request a replacement key fob or repair.
When you carry many keys, it's easy to damage the key ring. This can cause the key fob to snap in half this is one of the most frequent causes of car keys breaking. You can use super glue on both sides of the crack and gently press them together to fix the issue. Make sure to use a gel type of glue that drys slowly in order to avoid drips or runniness.
If this method doesn't work, it is important to call an experienced locksmith immediately in order to prevent any further damage to your vehicle. A professional locksmith will be able to repair or repair your key fob in a short time and will also be able to ensure that the ignition lock as well as the door lock do not get damaged by the process.
If your key fob gets damaged, it can be frustrating and uninviable. It's not a reason to be in a state of panic or anger. Instead, you can take proactive measures to reduce the risk of your key fob breaking in the future. This includes regular maintenance, using key protectors and having an extra key. If you do experience an issue with your key fob, the team at Quicksmith is ready to help!
Broken Key Loop
One of my MK5 keyfobs has snapped off the tiny key ring loop at the top, where it connects to the keyfob. It appears to be made of very soft plastic or metal. I've made a hole in it, and then wet-sanded it to make it stronger however, I'm assuming that the issue isn't solved by this.
I've also attempted to wrap the broken ring with clear tape but it didn't look as good. It's really too bad, since I use the little rings to keep my keys on the mini-split ring that holds the larger split rings for the other keyfobs.
If the key fob's case is damaged, you can usually open it and replace the battery, if it is not already dead. There are online kits available to help, but they usually only offer temporary fixes - it is more efficient to bring it to a professional who will swap out the battery and reprogram the key fob. You can also purchase an updated case at a locksmith or home improvement store. These cases aren't as expensive as the new key fob.