How to Repair a Dead Car Key
Extreme cold or heat can cause a vehicle to stop working. It is best to wait a few minutes before replacing it.
It's quite a hassle when the keys to your car fail and they happen at the most inconvenient times! There are a variety of ways to fix broken car keys that don't involve paying for the purchase of a new key.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
Modern key fobs let us open trunks, doors, and tailgates without the need for a key in the car. Certain key fobs come with a built in key that can be utilized to start our vehicles. However, these fobs are dependent on a small battery that provides power to their remote functions. If this battery dies then the key fob will not be able to send a signal to activate the vehicle. Fortunately, there are many ways to repair the problem and get your car operating again.
First, determine if the key fob is actually dead. If it seems to be, you'll need to replace the battery. You can do this yourself by taking the fob off its clip or using a flat-head screwdriver. Be cautious not to put too much pressure on the fob or you may end up damaging the fob. It is also important to ensure that you're using a correct kind of battery. Most key fobs use three-volt CR2032 batteries, however certain models might require a different type of battery. You can find out what kind of battery your car needs in the owner's manual, or visit an Interstate All Battery Center and ask a specialist to assist you.
If the key fob isn't dead, you can sometimes revive it by bringing it closer to your car. Read More At this website of key fobs utilize RFID (radio frequency identification), which only works in a limited range. The ignition system must be able to recognize the signal. If you are able to move a few inches closer your vehicle, it could unlock or even start.
Many car manufacturers have backup systems that is activated when the key fob's battery is low. For instance, many Ford models have a separate slot for the key fob which will start the engine when properly inserted. Check your owner's manual for information on where to find this slot and how to properly insert the key fob. If you're not able to get your car started using this method, you should contact roadside assistance.
Broken Key Ring
The internal chip in the key fob is what communicates to the immobilizer on your car to enable the motor. The chip could be damaged or there might be programming errors. If this occurs the key fob won't be able to send the correct identification code, and your car won't start. A faulty transponder can be caused by physical damage to the key shell or wear and wear and tear on the contact pads.
There are often warning signs on your dashboard if keys are not communicating with the immobilizer system of your vehicle. These may include error messages, flashing lights or the key not locking the vehicle. If you observe any of these warnings, call your local locksmith immediately to repair your key fob or replacement.
If you carry a lot of keys, it is easy to scratch your key ring. This can cause the fob to break in half. This is among the most common causes of a broken car key. If this happens, you can attempt to use super glue to fix the issue by applying a small amount the glue on both sides of the split and then gently pressing them together. Make sure to use a gel type of glue that is slow drying to prevent drips or runniness.
If this method doesn't work, it is important to call a professional locksmith right away to prevent further damage to your car. A professional locksmith can replace or repair your key fob quickly and will also be able to ensure that the ignition lock and door lock do not get damaged by the process.
It can be a bit frustrating when your key fob is damaged. But, it's not cause to panic or get angry. You can make proactive steps to lessen the likelihood of your key fob failing in the near future. This includes regular maintenance, key protectors and having a spare. Quicksmith's team is ready to help you if your key fob fails.
Broken Key Loop
One of my MK5 keysfobs snapped off the tiny key ring on the top, where it connects to the keyfob. It appears to be made of extremely soft metal or plastic. I've made a hole in it, and wet-sanded it to strengthen it but I'm guessing the problem isn't helped by that.
I've also attempted to wrap the broken part of the ring using clear tape, but it didn't look much better. It's a shame as I use the tiny rings to keep my keys on the tiny mini-splitring that holds the larger split ring for the keyfobs that I have.
If the key fob's case itself is broken it is usually possible to open up the case and replace the battery (assuming the battery isn't already dead). There are kits online for this, but they typically only provide a temporary fix - it might be better to take it to a mechanic who will replace the battery and reprogram the key fob. You may also find the replacement case at the home improvement store or locksmith. They're not likely to be as expensive as a new key fob.