SMS53 Automotive Locksmith repairs and replaces damaged car keys, worn remote buttons, broken casings and faulty remotes across Melbourne.
Is your car key falling apart, or have the rubber buttons on your remote worn out? Perhaps your key blade has snapped, your remote casing is cracked, or you can no longer lock and unlock your car easily.
At SMS53 Automotive Locksmith, we deal with these problems regularly. Some customers come to us with Hyundai or Kia remotes where the rubber buttons have worn away completely. Others have broken key casings held together with sticky tape because they are trying to keep using their only working key.
These problems can be frustrating, especially when you rely on your car every day. The good news is that a damaged car key does not always need to be replaced completely. Depending on the condition of the key, a casing repair, button replacement or new replacement key may be suitable.
In this blog, we explain the common broken car key problems we see, what can be done to fix them, and when replacing your key may be the better option.
Worn-Out Rubber Buttons on Hyundai and Kia Car Remotes
One of the most common problems we see is worn-out rubber buttons on Hyundai and Kia car remotes. We also see similar issues with certain Holden remotes.
The rubber pads covering the lock and unlock buttons can wear down after years of everyday use. The symbols may disappear, the rubber may tear, or the buttons may come away from the casing.
When this happens, customers often struggle to operate their central locking. Some have to press the exposed button underneath the rubber, while others use their fingernails to reach the button just to lock or unlock their car.
We have seen many of these cases, particularly with older or heavily used remotes. Certain remote designs do not hold up well after years of repeated use, and the rubber pads can become worn or damaged.
This is also common with second-hand vehicles purchased from used car dealers or Facebook Marketplace. The car might be in good condition, but the remote supplied with it may already have worn buttons or a damaged casing.
If you have to use your fingernails to operate your car remote, it is worth getting it checked before the buttons stop working completely.
Why Do Car Remote Buttons and Casings Break?
There are several reasons why a car key remote can become damaged.
Everyday wear and tear
Car remote buttons are used frequently. Over time, the rubber pads can become thin, tear or come away from the casing. The plastic shell can also crack after years of use.
Water and rain damage
If rainwater or moisture gets inside the remote, it can damage the electronic circuit board. The remote may continue working initially but later develop problems with the buttons or central locking.
Pressing the buttons too hard
When the rubber buttons are damaged, some people try to press the buttons underneath using their fingernails or a small tool.
Although this may work temporarily, pressing too hard or at the wrong angle can damage the internal button contacts or circuit board. A tool can also cause further damage if it reaches the electronics inside the remote.
If your buttons are already worn out, forcing them is not a good long-term solution.
Can You Replace the Rubber Pads or Car Key Casing?
Yes. In some cases, we can replace the outer casing or rubber button pads without replacing the entire key.
If the electronic circuit board is still working properly and the damage is limited to the outer shell, transferring the existing components into a suitable replacement casing may be possible.
However, there are a few things to consider.
With some remote designs, replacement rubber pads may not stay firmly in place over time. They can come loose or become difficult to use again. If the buttons are pressed too hard or operated with fingernails, the replacement rubber can also become damaged.
A new casing will not fix a damaged circuit board either. If water has entered the remote or the internal components have been damaged, further repair or a complete replacement may be needed.
This is why we assess the existing key before recommending a solution. We want to help you choose an option that suits the condition of your key and your budget.
When Is It Better to Get a New Replacement Remote Key?
For some badly worn Hyundai, Kia and Holden remotes, we recommend considering a new replacement remote instead of repeatedly repairing the same casing.
We offer aftermarket replacement keys, including flip-style keys for supported vehicles. These provide a new casing and buttons, which can be a practical alternative to continuing with a remote that is falling apart.
Depending on the vehicle, the benefits can include:
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New buttons that are easier to press.
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A fresh casing instead of worn or cracked plastic.
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A more convenient way to lock and unlock your car.
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Better long-term value than repeatedly repairing a badly worn remote.
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The opportunity to have an additional key for peace of mind.
We can discuss aftermarket options and genuine-look replacement keys where available. The right option depends on your vehicle, key system and budget.
Not every key design is compatible with every vehicle, so we check the available options before recommending a replacement.
Broken Car Key Casings Held Together with Sticky Tape
Another common problem is a key casing that has cracked or broken apart. Sometimes the plastic halves no longer stay together, and customers use sticky tape to hold the key in place.
We understand why people do this. If the key still starts the car, they may not want to spend money replacing it immediately.
However, relying on sticky tape is not a good long-term solution. The casing can come apart while you are using it, potentially exposing or damaging the internal components. If the key breaks completely and you have no spare, you could be left without a working key.
Depending on the condition of the key, we may be able to replace the casing and reuse the working components. If the key is badly damaged, a new replacement may be the more suitable option.
If your key is already falling apart, it is better to have it checked before the problem becomes more serious.
Snapped or Worn Car Key Blades
Not all broken car keys involve remote buttons. We also see keys with worn or snapped metal blades.
The blade may break away from the remote, become worn from years of use, or become difficult to turn in the ignition.
A damaged blade should not be forced into the ignition because it could break further or create additional problems.
Depending on the damage and key design, we can assess whether a replacement blade or a complete replacement key is required. If the blade has snapped, a new blade may need to be cut, and the replacement key may also require programming depending on the vehicle.
We work with a range of vehicle makes and models, including Toyota, Holden and Nissan, where broken or worn key blades can be an issue.
Why You Should Make a Spare Key Before Your Only Key Breaks
One of the most important things we tell customers is that making a spare key while you still have a working key can save you trouble later.
If your only key is damaged but still works, you may have more options available. If it breaks completely or stops working, replacing it can become more complicated depending on the vehicle and the fault.
For example, a remote with worn-out buttons might still start the car, but you may struggle to operate the central locking. If the key casing then breaks or the internal electronics fail, you could be left without a working remote.
Having a spare gives you another option if your main key gets damaged, lost or stops working.
The cost depends on your vehicle, key type and the work required. However, it is worth comparing the cost of making a spare now with the potential inconvenience and expense of dealing with a complete key failure later.
If your key is showing signs of damage, do not wait until it stops working completely.
How We Repair or Replace Broken Car Keys
At SMS53 Automotive Locksmith, we keep the process straightforward.
First, contact us and explain what is wrong with your key. You can also send us a photo of the key or remote so we can get a better idea of the damage.
We will discuss the possible repair or replacement options and provide a price before proceeding. Depending on the vehicle and the problem, we may recommend a casing replacement, a repair where suitable, or a new replacement key.
We then arrange to come to your location and carry out the work on-site for supported vehicles.
Before finishing the job, we test the key and its relevant functions with you to check that everything is working as expected.
If you are unsure whether your key needs repairing or replacing, contact us first. We can assess the available options rather than assuming you need an entirely new key.
How Much Does Broken Car Key Repair Cost?
The price depends on the type of damage, your vehicle’s make and model, and whether the key needs a repair or full replacement.
A casing replacement may be suitable if the electronics are working correctly and only the outer shell is damaged. A new remote key may be more appropriate if the buttons are badly worn or the internal components are faulty.
A snapped blade, damaged remote or programming issue can require a different solution depending on the vehicle.
To help us provide an accurate quote, tell us your car’s make, model and year, describe the problem, and send a photo of the key if possible.
You can also visit our broken car key repair service page for more information.
Mobile Broken Car Key Repair Across Melbourne
SMS53 Automotive Locksmith provides mobile automotive locksmith services across Melbourne. We come to your location, so you do not necessarily need to take your vehicle to a workshop.
We assist with worn remote buttons, cracked key casings, snapped blades, replacement remotes, spare keys and key programming for supported vehicles.
Whether you drive a Hyundai, Kia, Holden, Toyota, Mazda, Nissan, Mitsubishi, Ford or another supported vehicle, contact us with your car details and explain what is happening with your key.
Call or text: 0401 156 529
Website: https://sms53locksmith.com.au
You can also contact us through Facebook or Instagram.
If your car key is falling apart, your remote buttons are worn out, or your key blade is damaged, get in touch to discuss the available repair and replacement options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you repair worn-out Hyundai and Kia remote buttons?
We can assess the remote and explain the available options. Depending on the condition, replacing the rubber pads or casing may be possible. If the remote is badly worn, a new replacement key may be a better option.
Can you replace a broken car key casing?
Yes, where the key design and condition allow it. If the internal electronics are still working, we may be able to transfer them into a replacement shell.
My car remote no longer locks or unlocks the doors. Can you help?
Yes. We can assess the remote and check the available repair or replacement options. The cause could be worn buttons, a damaged circuit board, a battery issue or another fault.
Can water damage my car remote?
Yes. Moisture can damage the internal electronics and cause the remote buttons or central locking functions to stop working. The remote should be checked if it has been exposed to water.
Do you offer aftermarket flip-style car keys?
Yes, we offer aftermarket flip-style keys for supported vehicles. Availability depends on your vehicle’s make, model, year and key system.
Is it better to repair or replace a broken car key?
It depends on the damage. A casing replacement may be enough if the electronics work properly. If the buttons are badly worn or the remote has internal damage, a new replacement key may offer better value.
Can you make a spare key if my current key is still working?
Yes. We provide spare key services for supported vehicles. Having a spare made before your only key fails can help avoid the inconvenience of being left without a working key.
Do you come to my location in Melbourne?
Yes. We provide mobile service across many Melbourne suburbs. Contact us with your location and vehicle details to confirm availability.
Is your car key damaged or falling apart? Contact SMS53 Automotive Locksmith for mobile broken car key repair and replacement across Melbourne. We can assess your key and help you choose a suitable option.
