How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're on your way to work, in a hurry, and jam your keys in the ignition. Then you try to turn it into a lock, and it snaps from the lock!
Luckily, there are a few options you can attempt to solve the issue before calling a locksmith. Here are some easy solutions. Super Glue.
1. Contact a locksmith
A broken key in the lock is among the most frustrating things a car owner can experience. This can be particularly frustrating if the driver is trying to get somewhere, or to drop off an infant. In this scenario you must act swiftly to try and 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 keys that are broken without damaging the lock. Many people look for something that is thin and rigid like paperclips or toothpicks. But this isn't the best solution as they are too large to fit into the lock.
The best option is to use a pair tweezers. They are thin and easily fit into the lock. They should also be sturdy enough to grasp the broken part of the key and then pull it out. If you don't own tweezers, it could be worth looking 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 grab the broken part of the key.
Another possible solution is to locate an magnetic key hook that can stick to the metal inside the lock and then pull it out. key fob repair service near me is not always the best option as it could get caught in a lock and cause more damage. In this instance, it's best to call an experienced locksmith.
Some people attempt to join the two pieces of a damaged car key using superglue in order to remove it from the lock. However, this is extremely risky because the pieces of metal could snag on to each other and then fall apart later. It is also crucial not to turn the key, because this could cause damage to the lock or ignition cylinder. Call a professional locksmith to repair the damaged key right away.
2. Drill a hole
Even with a spare key you might not be able to access your vehicle if the key breaks inside the lock. In these instances, drilling out the lock is the best choice.
First, you will want to make sure that the key hole is designed to take a basic tumbler car key. If it isn't, you won't be able to remove the pins without damaging the door and potentially destroying the lock mechanism.
It is important to note that you will drill through the outer layer of plastic as well as an inner layer of metal. A small drill bit is enough to cut through these layers, but you need to be sure not to go any deeper than that. If you drill too deep it may cause damage to the wiring harness or cause the drill bit to stick inside the hole.
Wearing a mask or other protective equipment is also recommended when using a drill. This will keep the dust and dirt from entering your lung.
It's also a good idea if the broken key piece remains stuck in the lock, to keep a pair pliers and tweezers handy. If the key is protruding enough to be able to be grasped with tweezers and pliers, then this is enough to pull it out. If there isn't, however you'll require tools like this one to wedge the tool in the lock and then turn it towards the key in order to grip it and remove it from the hole.
3. Drill a nail
If you break your car key in half, it can cause you to be in a bind. There are a variety of ways to fix the problem without the expense of locksmith. The first step is to use screws or nails. These are available at your home or at a local hardware store. It is best to choose the nail that is as thin and long as you can. This means you can put it into the hole and then use epoxy glue to join the two pieces. It is also good to ensure that the back of the nail is level. This will allow it to fit into the cut slot of the key. This will stop it from moving around and breaking in the future.
4. Super Glue
Many motorists resort to DIY tricks such as using super glue to attempt to fix a damaged car key, but this is a dangerous way to go. You could cause damage to the lock and be forced to pay more money to get a new one.
First, you need to take a look at the keys that are broken and make sure they are identical in terms of size. This is crucial to ensure that all the glued pieces are aligned correctly and that the key fits in the lock after 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 improve the glue's bond and reduce the likelihood of a future loose key.
After you have polished the edges of the damaged key and polished them, apply a small amount super glue to one of the ends. Be careful not to use too much, because this could cause the key to become too heavy and it will be difficult to fit into the lock. After lining up the two pieces of the key that broke then press them together. After several seconds the glue will begin to set and join the key pieces together.
A paperclip or bobby-pin can also be used to remove a damaged key from an lock. They can be cut as a pick, and then inserted into the lock. This technique is particularly useful when the damage is located within or close to the keyway or ignition hole.
Another thing to remember is that if your car key is equipped with electronic components, it will require the cutting of a new key by the dealership or an experienced locksmith. The key will have to be reprogrammed using a new code and the chip in the key must be changed. If the metal or shell of the key breaks and needs to be replaced, you'll need to replace the cut. You don't have to reprogramme or replace the electronic components.