How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're heading to work, in rush, and put your keys to your car in the ignition. Then you try turning it, and it snaps off in the lock!
There are a few things you could do to solve the issue before calling an experienced locksmith. Here are some quick fixes:1. Super Glue.
1. Call a Locksmith
One of the worst things that could happen to an owner of a vehicle is a broken key in a lock. This is particularly aggravating if the driver is in a rush to get somewhere, or drop off the child. In this case it is crucial to act quickly and try to free the stuck key.
Contacting a professional locksmith is the best option as they'll have the proper tools and know how to take out the broken keys without damaging the lock. Many people will have a look around the vehicle for something small and rigid such as a paperclip or toothpick, however this usually won't work as it's too heavy to enter the lock.
The best solution is to search for a pair of tweezers as these are quite thin and can easily reach the key hole inside 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 looking for a set sold at auto parts stores. They are thin, flat and have small hooks. They can be inserted through the keyhole to grasp the broken piece of the key.
A magnetic key hook can be used to adhere to the metal inside the lock, and then remove it. This isn't always a good option, as it can sometimes become stuck under the lock and cause further damage to the lock. In this case it is recommended to call locksmith.
Some people attempt to join the two pieces of their snapped car key together with superglue, as it can aid them in get it out of the lock. This is a risk since the metal pieces could get caught and break later. It is important to not turn the key as this could cause further damage to your lock or ignition cylinder. Contact a professional locksmith to repair the broken key right away.
2. Drill a hole
Sometimes, a key gets damaged inside the lock, and even with an extra key, you may not be able to gain access to your vehicle. In these instances drilling out the lock is the best choice.
It is important to make sure the keyhole is set for a basic tumbler. If it's not, you won't be able to drill out the pins and damage the lock's door or internal mechanism.
It is important to note that you'll drill through an outer plastic layer as well as an inner layer of metal. A small drill bit is enough to penetrate these layers, but it is important to be sure to not go any deeper than that. If you drill too deeply it may harm the wiring harness inside or cause the drill bit to become stuck in the hole.
It is also recommended to wear a mask and protective gear while working with drilling. This will stop dust and dirt from getting into your lungs.
In the end, it's an excellent idea to keep two pairs of pliers and tweezers in your possession in the event that the broken piece of the key is sticking out of the lock. If the key is extending enough to be gripped with pliers and tweezers this will suffice to get it out. If not, you'll have to use an instrument like this to wedge it into the lock and then turn it toward the key to grab and remove it.
3. Drill a Nail
If you smash your car key in half, it could cause you to be in a bind. There are some solutions to fix it, without having to pay for a locksmith. The first option is to make use of a screw or nail. You can find them at home or in the hardware store. It is recommended to select nails that are as thin and as long as you can. car key fob repairs near me , you can place it in the hole and then use epoxy to join the two parts together. It is also good to ensure that the nail's back is level. This will allow it to fit into the slot cut in the key. This will stop it from moving and potentially breaking again in the future.
4. Super Glue
Many car owners make use of DIY techniques such as using super glue to attempt to fix a damaged car key, however this is a dangerous way to go. You could cause damage to the lock and be forced to shell out more to replace it.
It is important to examine the broken keys first to ensure they're the same size. This is crucial to ensure that all the pieces of the glue are aligned properly and that the key will fit into the lock after they've been bonded. Then, use a piece of sandpaper with fine-grit or a metal file to smooth the edges on the damaged pieces of the key. This will strengthen the glue's bond and decrease the possibility of a loose key.
After you've polished the edges of the damaged key then apply a small amount super glue to one of the ends. Be careful not to apply too much glue, as this could cause the key to become too thick and will have difficulty fitting into the lock. After aligning the two pieces of the broken key, press them together. After a few moments the glue will begin to set and bind the key fragments.
Another common household item that can be used to help remove a damaged car key is a bobby or paperclip pin which can be cut into a pick-like tool and placed inside the lock. This method is particularly useful in the event that the broken part is close or inside the keyway or lock hole.
Another thing to remember is that if the broken car key has electronic components, it will require the cutting of a new key from the dealership or a professional locksmith. This is because the key will have to be programmed with a brand new code and the key chip must be replaced. If only the metal or shell of the key is damaged, you will need to get a new cut. You won't need to reprogramme or replace electronic components.
