How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're rushing to get to work and jam your keys into the ignition. Then you try to turn it into a lock, and it snaps inside the lock!
Luckily, there are a few ways you can attempt to solve the issue before calling a locksmith. Here are some easy fixes. Super Glue.
1. Call a Locksmith
One of the worst things that could happen to the owner of a car is a broken key in locks. This is especially frustrating when the driver is in a rush to get somewhere, or drop off the child. In this scenario, you should act quickly to attempt to remove the stuck key.
A locksmith with experience is the best choice, as they will have the proper tools and know how to take out the broken keys without damaging the lock. Many people will have a look around in their vehicle for something small and rigid like a paperclip, or toothpick, but these isn't likely to work as it is too thick to fit into the lock.
The best option is to use a pair of tweezers. They are lightweight and can easily reach into the lock. They should also be sturdy enough to hold the damaged part of the key and pull it out. If you don't have tweezers, it could be worth searching for a set that is available at auto parts stores. These are flat, narrow and have tiny hooks. They can be inserted in the keyhole and take the broken portion of the key.
Another possible solution is to locate an magnetic key hook that can stick to the metal inside the lock and pull it out. This is not always the best option since it could get caught in the lock and cause further damage. In such a scenario it is recommended to call locksmith.
Some people attempt to join the two pieces of their snapped car key with superglue as this can help them to get it out of the lock. This is a risk as the metal pieces may tangle and break later. It is essential not to turn the key because this could cause further damage to the lock or ignition cylinder. It is better to call an expert locksmith who will be on hand to remove the broken key and make a replacement on the spot.
2. Drill a Hole
Even having a spare key you may not be able to access your vehicle if the key breaks inside the lock. Drilling out the lock may be the best solution in these situations.
First, you will want to make sure that the key hole is set to accept a standard tumbler car key. If it's not, you won't have the ability to remove the pins and cause damage to the lock's door or internal mechanism.
Next, it is important to be aware that you'll be drilling through the outer plastic layer and an inner layer of metal. You can drill through these layers using a a small drill bit, but you shouldn't go any further. Drilling too deep can damage the internal wiring harness, or cause the drill to stick.
Wearing a mask or protective equipment is recommended when working with drilling. This will prevent dust and dirt from entering your lung.
Finally, it is recommended to have pliers and tweezers in your possession in case the broken piece of the key is sticking out of the lock. If the key is extending enough to be gripped with tweezers and pliers, then this is enough to pull it out. If not, you'll have to use an instrument such as this to encase it in the lock, and then rotate it towards the key to grab and take it out.
3. Drill a nail
If you break your car key in half, it could cause you to be trapped. There are several solutions to fix it, without having to pay for a locksmith. The first thing you can do is use the screw or nail. These can be found in your home or at a hardware store. It is best to choose nails that are as thin and as long as you can. This way, you can place it into the hole and then use epoxy to connect the two parts together. Make sure that the nail's back is flat. This will allow it to fit in the cut slot of the key. repair car key will prevent it from moving, and could even prevent it from breaking again in the future.
4. Super Glue
Many car owners resort to DIY tricks such as using super glue to repair a broken car key, however this is not a safe way to go. You could damage the lock, and have to pay more money to get a new one.
First, you need to examine the keys that have been damaged and ensure that they match each other in terms of size. This is crucial to ensure that all pieces of the glue are aligned properly and that the key will fit inside the lock once they've been bonded. Then, using a piece of fine-grit paper or a metal filing, smooth out the edges of the damaged pieces. This will improve the glue's bond and decrease the possibility of a loose key.
After polishing the edges After polishing the edges, apply only a small amount (about an amount of pea-sized) of super glue to the other side. Be careful not to use too much glue, as this can cause the key to become too heavy and may be difficult to fit into the lock. After that, carefully place the two pieces of the key and press them together. After a few minutes, the glue will begin to set and join together the key fragments.
A bobby-pin or a paperclip can also be used as a tool to extract a broken key from a lock. They can be shaped like a pick and then inserted into the lock. This method is especially useful when the damage is located inside or close to the keyway or the ignition hole.
A car key that has been damaged with electronic components will need a new key from the dealer or a professional locksmith. This is because the key needs to be programmed with a new code and the chip will need to be replaced. If only the metal or shell of the key fails and needs to be replaced, you'll need to have a new cut. You won't need to reprogramme or replace electronics.