How to Repair a Dead Car Key
Extreme cold or extreme heat can sometimes cause a vehicle to stop working. Take a moment before replacing it.
When your car keys break, it's a real trouble. And it always happens at the worst possible moment! There are a variety of ways to repair a broken car key that don't require the purchase of a new key.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
Modern key fobs let us to open trunks, doors and tailgates without having to search for a physical key. Some key fobs have a built in key that can be utilized to start our vehicles. The fobs are powered by a tiny battery. If the battery is dead then the key fob will no longer send a signal to activate the vehicle. Fortunately, there are many ways you can fix a dead key fob and get your car running again.
First, check the condition of the key fob to determine if it's really dead. If it appears dead, you'll need to replace the batteries. You can do this yourself by taking the key fob away from its clip or using a small flat-head screwdriver to pry it apart. Be cautious not to apply too much pressure or you may cause damage to the fob. Also, make sure that you're using a correct type of battery. Most key fobs are three-volt CR2032 batteries, however certain models may require a different type of battery. If you aren't sure what type your car requires the most common place to look is the information in your owner's manual or visit an Interstate All Battery Center to get a professional to assist you.
You can sometimes revive the key fob that's dead by moving it closer to the car. Most key fobs use RFID (radio frequency identification) that only operates in a limited range. remote car key repair near me needs to be able detect the signal. You can unlock your car, or even start it if you move few inches closer.
Many car manufacturers have backup systems that is activated when the battery of the key fob is low. For instance, the majority of Ford models come with a designated slot for the key fob that will activate the engine when inserted correctly. You can find instructions in the owner's manual of how to locate this slot and insert the key fob correctly. If you are unable to start the car by using this method, call roadside assistance.
Broken Key Ring
The internal chip of the key fob is what transmits to the immobilizer on your car to allow it to start the motor. If the chip is damaged or there are programming errors, the key isn't able to send the correct identification code and your car will not start. In certain instances a malfunctioning transponder key may be caused by physical damage or wear and tear on the key shell or contact pads.
There are often warning indicators on your dashboard when keys are not communicating with the immobilizer system of your vehicle. This could include errors messages, flashing lights or the key not locking or unlocking the vehicle. If you are noticing these warnings contact your local locksmith immediately to request a replacement key fob or repair.
If you carry a lot of keys, it's easy to break your key ring. This could cause the fob to split in half. This is among the most common causes of a broken car key. You can apply super glue on both sides of the crack and gently press them together to repair the issue. Make use of a gel-type glue that is slow drying to prevent drips or runniness.
If this method does not work, it is important to get in touch with a professional locksmith right away in order to prevent any further damage to your vehicle. A locksmith with the right qualifications can to repair or replace your fob in a short time and make sure that the ignition and door locks are not damaged during the process.
When your key fob is damaged, it can be a hassle and a nuisance. It is not a cause for anxiety or anger. You can make proactive steps to lessen the likelihood of your key fob breaking in the future. These include regular maintenance, key protectors, and keeping a spare. If you do encounter an issue with your key fob Quicksmith's team Quicksmith is available to assist!
Broken Key Loop
One of my MK5 keyfobs has snapped off the small key ring loop at the top of the loop where it joins the keyfob. It appears to be made of very soft plastic or metal. I've drilled a hole, and then wet-sanded the area to strengthen it, but I suspect the problem isn't helped by this.
I've also wrapped the broken part of the ring with clear tape, but that isn't doing any good. It's really a shame, since I use the tiny rings to keep my keys on the little mini-split ring that holds the larger split ring for the keyfobs that I have.
If the case for the key fob itself is broken, it's often possible to open up the case and replace the battery (assuming the battery isn't dead). There are online kits available to help, but they typically only provide a temporary fix - it may be faster to bring it to a professional who can swap out the battery and reprogram the key fob. You can also purchase an updated case at an a locksmith or home improvement store. These cases aren't as expensive as an entirely new key fob.