How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're headed to work, in hurry, and you jam your keys to your car in the ignition. Then you try to turn it into a lock, and it snaps in the lock!
There are some things you can do to solve the issue before contacting an expert locksmith. Here are a few quick fixes:: 1. Super Glue.
1. Contact a locksmith
One of the worst things that can happen to the owner of a car is a broken key inside a lock. This can be even more painful if it occurs when the driver is trying to get to work or to drop off an infant. In this scenario it is imperative to act fast to try and remove the stuck key.
A locksmith with experience is the best option as they will have the proper tools and know how to take out the keys that are broken without damaging the lock. Many people will look for something thin and stiff, such as a toothpick or paperclip. But, this is not the best option since they are too large to fit into the lock.
The best option is to find an tweezers set, because they are thin and can easily get into the key hole inside the lock. They should be able to grab the broken part of a key, and then pull it out. If you don't own tweezers, it might be worth searching for a set sold at auto parts stores. They are narrow, flat and have hooks that are small. They can be put through the keyhole to take the broken portion of the key.
Another possible solution is to find an magnetic key hook that is able to attach to the metal in the lock and pull it out. This isn't always the best option since it could be caught under the lock and cause further damage. In such a situation it is recommended to call an expert locksmith.
Some people attempt to join the two pieces of their broken car key together with superglue, as it will help them take it out of the lock. This is a risk as 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 recommended to contact a professional locksmith who will be able to take out the damaged key and then make a replacement on the spot.
2. Drill a hole
Sometimes, a key gets damaged inside the lock, and even with a spare, you might not be capable of opening the door to your vehicle. In these cases drilling out the lock is the best option.
First, you need to make sure that the key hole is set to take a basic tumbler car key. If it isn't, you won't be able to drill out the pins without damaging the door, and possibly damaging the lock mechanism.
The next step is to know that you'll be drilling through the outer layer of plastic and an inner layer of metal. You can drill through these layers with the smallest drill bit however, you should not go any deeper. If you drill too deeply it may cause damage to the wiring harness or cause the drill bit to get stuck inside the hole.
Wearing a protective mask or equipment is recommended when using drilling. This will stop dust and dirt from getting into your lung.
Finally, it is recommended to have two pairs of pliers and tweezers on hand in the event that the broken key is sticking out of the lock. If the key is protruding enough to be held by pliers and tweezers, it will be enough to get it out. If not, however you'll need to use tools like this one to wedge the tool inside the lock, and then turn it towards the key to grasp it and pull it out of the hole.
3. Drill a nail
You can be left stranded if you break your key in half. There are a number of options to fix the issue without having to hire a locksmith. The first step is use a screw or nail. They are available in your house or at the hardware store. However, it is best to look for the nail that is as thin as it can be and as long as is possible. This will allow you to fit it into the hole, and then use epoxy to link the two pieces. It is also important to ensure that the nail's back is level. This will allow it to fit into the cut slot of the key. This will keep it from moving, and could even prevent it from breaking again in the future.
4. Super Glue
A lot of motorists use DIY hacks like using super glue to try and fix a broken car key, however this is not a safe way to go. You could end up ruining the lock and have to shell out more money for replacing it from the dealer or locksmith.
You must examine the broken keys first to ensure they are of the same size. This step is essential to ensure that all the pieces of the glue are aligned properly and that the key will fit inside the lock once they have been bonded. Then, using a piece of fine-grit paper or a metal filing, smooth the edges of the broken pieces. This will make the glue bond better and lessen the risk of a key becoming loose in the future.
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 use too much, as this could cause the key to become too thick and may be difficult to fit into the lock. After aligning the two pieces of the broken key then press them together. After several seconds the glue will begin to set and join the key fragments.
A bobby-pin or a paperclip can also be used to remove a broken key from the lock. They can be cut like a pick and then inserted into the lock. homesite is particularly helpful in the event that the broken part is within or near the keyway or ignition hole.
A car key that has been damaged with electronic components will need an entirely new key from the locksmith or dealer. The key will need to be reprogrammed using a different code, and the chip inside the key needs to be replaced. If only the shell or metal part of the key is damaged, you will need to get a new cut. You don't have to reprogramme or replace electronic components.