How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're on your way to work, in hurry, and you jam your car keys into the ignition. You try turning the key but it is unable to get into the lock.
Luckily, there are a few ways you can try to fix it before calling a locksmith. Here are some easy solutions. Super Glue.
1. Contact a locksmith
A damaged key in the lock is among the most unpleasant things a vehicle owner could experience. This is especially frustrating if the driver is in a rush to get somewhere, or drop off an infant. In this situation it is crucial to act swiftly and try to release the stuck key.
It is recommended to contact an experienced locksmith for this job, because he or she can use the right tools to remove the broken key without damage the lock. Many people will have a look around the vehicle to find something light and sturdy like a paperclip or toothpick, but this usually won't work as it's too heavy to fit into the lock.
The best solution is to use a pair tweezers. They are lightweight and can easily reach inside the lock. They should be rigid enough to grab the broken part of a key and pull it out. If you don't have tweezers then you might consider trying to locate key extractors which are typically sold in auto parts stores. They are thin and flat with small hooks that can be inserted into the key hole and then grip on the broken piece of the key.
Another option is to locate a magnetic key hook that will stick to the metal inside the lock and pull it out. This isn't always a good option since it is possible for it to be caught in the lock and cause further damage to it. In such a situation it is recommended to contact locksmith.
Some people try to join the two pieces of a broken car key with superglue in order to remove it from the lock. This could be risky since the metal pieces could snag and break later. It is crucial not to turn the key, as it could cause further damage to the lock or ignition cylinder. It is best to contact a professional locksmith who will be able to take out the broken key and create an immediate replacement.
2. Drill through a hole
Even with a spare key, you may not be able access your vehicle if a key breaks inside the lock. In these instances, drilling out the lock is the best option.
First, you must make sure the keyhole is positioned to accept a basic tumbler key. If it's not, you won't be able to drill out the pins and damage the door or internal lock mechanism.
It is important to note that you'll be drilling through an outer plastic layer as well as an inner layer of metal. You can drill through these layers with tiny drill bits, but you shouldn't go any deeper. If you drill to deep it may damage the internal wiring harness or cause the drill bit to get stuck within the hole.
Wearing a mask or other protective equipment is also advised when using a drill. This will stop dust and dirt from getting into your lungs.
It is also a good idea when the broken piece of key remains stuck in the lock, to keep pliers and tweezers at hand. If there is key fob repair near me of the key protruding to be able to grasp with tweezers or pliers, this should be sufficient to get it out of the lock. If not, you'll need to use a tool like this to wedge it into the lock and then rotate it towards the key to grasp it and take it out.
3. Drill a nail
If you smash your car key in half, it could cause you to be trapped. Luckily, there are a few solutions to fix it without paying for a locksmith. The first option is to use a nail or screw. They are available at home or at a hardware store. It is best to choose nails that are as thin and long as you can. This way you can fit it in the hole and then use epoxy to connect the two parts together. It is also important to make sure the nail's back is flat. This will make it easier to fit in the cut slot of the key. This will keep it from moving and potentially breaking again in the future.
4. Super Glue
Many auto owners use DIY techniques, such as using super glue, to repair a damaged or broken key. This is a risky method. You could damage the lock and be forced to pay more money for a replacement.
It is important to examine the keys that have been damaged first and make sure they're the same size. This is crucial to ensure that all pieces of the glue are aligned properly and that the key will fit in the lock after they've been bonded. Then, use a piece of sandpaper with fine-grit or a metal file to smooth out the edges on the broken pieces of the key. This will help the glue bond better and reduce the chances of a key falling loose in the future.
After finishing the edges, apply only a small amount (about an amount of pea-sized) of super glue on the other side. Use only the smallest amount of super glue, since excessive amounts can make the key too heavy. It will then be difficult to fit into the lock. After aligning the two pieces of the broken key then press them together. After a few minutes the glue will begin to set and join to the key pieces.
A paperclip or bobby-pin can also be used to remove a broken key from the lock. They can be shaped like a pick and inserted into the lock. This technique is particularly useful if the break is in or close to the keyway or the ignition hole.
Another thing to remember is that if your car key is equipped with electronic components and requires the cutting of a new key from the dealership or an experienced locksmith. The key will need to be reprogrammed using a new code and the chip in the key needs to be replaced. However, if the metal or shell of the key is damaged it typically requires a new key cut and doesn't require replacement or reprogramming of the electronics.