How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're headed to work in hurry, and you jam your car keys into the ignition. Then you try turning it, and it snaps off from the lock!
There are a few things you can try to fix the issue before contacting an expert locksmith. Here are a few quick fixes. Super Glue.
1. Contact a locksmith
A damaged key in the lock is among the most unpleasant things a vehicle owner can experience. This situation is even more difficult if it happens while the driver is rushing to get to work or to drop off the child. In this case it is crucial to act swiftly and try to get the key out of the way.
Contacting a professional locksmith is the best option as they will have the right tools and know how to remove the keys that are broken without damaging the lock. Many people are looking for something thin and stiff such as paperclips or toothpicks. But, this is not the best option since they are too heavy to fit inside the lock.
The best way to do this is to use a pair tweezers. They are small and can easily reach into the lock. They should also be rigid enough to hold the damaged part of the key and remove it. If you don't own tweezers it might be worth looking for key extractors which are typically available in auto parts stores. They are thin and flat with hooks that are small enough to be inserted into the key hole and then grip onto the broken bit of the key.
agree with this is to locate a magnetic key hook that can be affixed to the metal inside the lock and then pull it out. This isn't always a good option, as it can sometimes become stuck under the lock and cause further damage to the lock. In such a situation it is recommended to contact a locksmith.
Some people attempt to stick the two pieces of their car key that have snapped together using superglue, thinking that this can help them to get it out of the lock. This could be risky because the pieces of metal could snag and break later. It is essential not to turn the key, as it 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 damaged key and then make a replacement on the spot.
2. Drill a hole
Sometimes a key is broken 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 most effective option.
First, you must make sure that the keyhole is positioned to accept a basic tumbler key. If it's not there, you won't have the ability to remove the pins and damage the lock's door or internal mechanism.
It is important to note that you'll drill through the outer layer of plastic as well as an inner metal layer. A small drill bit is enough to cut through these layers, but you must be sure not to go further than this. If you drill to deep it may harm the wiring harness inside or cause the drill bit to become stuck within the hole.
Wearing a mask or protective gear is also recommended when working with drills. This will stop dust and dirt from getting into your respiratory system.
It is also a good idea, if the broken key piece is sticking out of the lock, to keep pliers and tweezers at hand. If the key is long enough to be held by pliers and tweezers this will suffice to get it out. If there isn't, however you'll need to use a tool such as this one to insert the tool into the lock and then turn it toward the key to grip and remove it from the hole.
3. Drill a nail
You can be left stranded when you cut your key in half. There are a number of options to fix the problem without having to hire locksmith. The first step is use screws or nails. You can find these at home or in the hardware store. It is recommended to pick nails that are as thin and long as you can. This way, you can place it into the hole and then use epoxy to join the two pieces together. It is also important to ensure that the nail's back is level. This will allow it to fit into the slot in the key. This will prevent it from moving and possibly breaking again in the future.
4. Super Glue
Many motorists resort to DIY hacks, such as using super glue, to repair a damaged or broken key. This is a risky method. You could end up damaging the lock, and have to shell out more for a replacement.
You need to check the keys that have been damaged first to ensure they are of the same size. This is essential to ensure that the glued pieces will be properly aligned and the key will fit into the lock after they are bonded together. After that, use the fine-grit sandpaper or a metal file to smooth out the edges on the damaged pieces of the key. This will improve the glue's bond and decrease the possibility of a key that is loose.
After you have polished the edges of the damaged key then apply a small amount of super glue to one of the ends. Only apply a small amount of super glue, since too much can make the key too thick. It will then be difficult to fit into the lock. After aligning the two pieces of the key that broke then press them together. After a few minutes the glue will begin to set and bind together the key fragments.
Another common household item that can be used to to remove a damaged car key is a bobby or paperclip pin which can be cut into a pick-like device and put into the lock. This method is particularly helpful if the break is near or inside the keyway or lock hole.
Another important thing to note is that if your car key has electronic components and requires an entirely new key by the dealership or a professional locksmith. This is because the key will have to be programmed using a new code and the chip will need to be replaced. If only the metal or shell of the key breaks it will be necessary to have a new cut. It is not necessary to reprogramme or replace electronics.