How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're rushing to get to work and you put your keys into the ignition. Then you try turning it, and it snaps off in the lock!
There are some things you can try to fix the issue before contacting an experienced locksmith. Here are a few quick fixes:1. Super Glue.
1. Call a Locksmith
A damaged key in the lock is among the most unpleasant things a vehicle owner could face. This can be even more frustrating if it occurs while the driver is rushing to get to work or drop off a child. In such a situation it is crucial to act swiftly and try to get the key out of the way.
It is best to call an experienced locksmith for this task as they will be able to use the appropriate tools to remove the broken key without harm the lock. Many people look around in their vehicle for something thin and rigid such as a paperclip or toothpick, but this isn't likely to work as it's too thick to be able to get into the lock.
The best solution is to use a pair of tweezers. They are small and are able to easily get into the lock. They should also be rigid enough to hold the damaged part of the key and pull it out. If you don't have tweezers, it could be worth looking for a set sold at auto parts stores. They are thin, flat and have small hooks. They can be inserted in the keyhole and grab the broken part of the key.
Another option is to find the magnetic key hook that can stick to the metal inside the lock and pull it out. This isn't always a good idea, as it can sometimes become stuck under the lock and cause further damage to it. In this situation it is best to contact a professional locksmith.
Some people try to join the two pieces of a damaged car key using superglue order to get it out of the lock. This can be dangerous as the metal pieces could snag and break later. It is also important not to turn the key, as this can cause further damage to the lock or the ignition cylinder. It is better to call a professional locksmith who will be able to remove the broken key and create an immediate replacement.
2. Drill a hole
Sometimes a key breaks inside the lock, and even with a spare, you might not be able to gain access to your vehicle. A drill may be the best option in these instances.
First, you need to make sure that the key hole is designed to accept a basic tumbler car key. If it's not then you won't have the ability to drill out the pins and damage the door or internal lock mechanism.
Next, it is important to be aware that you will be drilling through the outer plastic layer and an inner metal layer. A small drill bit will suffice to cut through these layers, but it is important to be sure not to go any deeper than that. If you drill too deeply, it can cause damage to the wiring harness, or cause the drill to snag.
It is also recommended to wear a mask and protective gear when working using drilling. This will stop dust and dirt from getting into your lung.
It's also a good idea, if the broken key piece is sticking out of the lock, to keep two pairs of pliers and tweezers handy. If there is enough of the key protruding to be grasped by tweezers, or pliers, this could be sufficient to get it out of the lock. If not you'll require a tool such as this one to wedge the tool inside the lock and then rotate it towards the key in order to grip it and take it out of the hole.
3. Drill a nail
If you break your car key in half, it can cause you to be stranded. Luckily, there are remote key fob repair to fix it without paying for a locksmith. The first step is use a screw or nail. You can find these in your house or at the hardware store. But, it is best to search for nails that are as thin as it can be and as long as is possible. This way, you can place it into the hole and then use epoxy to link the two parts together. Make sure that the back of the nails are flat. This will allow it to fit into the slot cut in the key. This will prevent it from moving and potentially breaking again in the future.
4. Super Glue
Many auto owners resort to DIY techniques, such as using super glue, to repair a damaged or broken key. This is a risky practice. You could cause damage to the lock, and have to pay more money for a replacement.
First, you need to take a look at the broken keys and make sure they match each other in terms of size. This step is essential to ensure that all the pieces that have been glued are aligned correctly and that the key fits into the lock after they have been joined. Then, using a piece fine-grit paper or a metal filing, smooth out the edges of the broken pieces. This will strengthen the glue's bond and reduce the likelihood of a future loose key.
After polishing the edges After polishing the edges, apply the smallest amount (about the size of a pea) of super glue on one side. Be cautious not to apply too much, as this can cause the key to become too thick and may be difficult to fit into the lock. After lining up the two pieces of the key that broke and pressing them together, you can press them. After a few minutes, the glue will begin to set and bond to the key pieces.
Another household item that can be used to help to remove a damaged car key is a bobby or paperclip pin that can be made into a pick-like tool and inserted in the lock. This technique is particularly helpful if the break is in or near the keyway or the ignition hole.
Another important thing to note is that if the damaged car key has electronic components that require the cutting of a new key from the dealer or a professional locksmith. The key will need to be reprogrammed using a different code and the chip inside the key must be changed. If only the shell or metal part of the key fails, you will need to have a new cut. You won't need to reprogramme or replace electronic components.