How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're in a rush to get to work and you put your keys into the ignition. You try to turn it, and it snaps off inside the lock!
There are a few options you can fix it before calling a locksmith. Here are some quick solutions: 1. Super Glue.
1. Contact a locksmith
One of the most devastating things that can happen to a car owner is a broken key inside the lock. This can be even more frustrating if it occurs while the driver is hurrying to get to work or to drop off a child. In this case it is imperative to act fast to attempt to free the stuck key.
It is recommended to contact an expert locksmith for this job for this job, as they can use the appropriate tools to remove the broken key without harm the lock. Many people will look for something small and stiff like paperclips or toothpicks. However, this is not the best solution as they are too heavy to fit inside the lock.
The best solution is to use a pair tweezers. They are lightweight and are able to easily get inside the lock. They should also be sturdy enough to grasp the broken part of the key and pull it out. If you don't have tweezers, it might be worth searching for a set available at auto parts stores. They are narrow and flat with small hooks that can be put into the key hole and grip onto the damaged part of the key.
Another possible solution is to locate a magnetic key hook that is able to be affixed to the metal inside the lock and pull it out. This is not always a good idea because it could get caught under the lock and cause further damage to it. In this case it is advised 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. However, this could be very risky as the bits of metal could snag on to each other and then fall apart later. It is also important not to turn the key since this could cause further damage to the lock or the ignition cylinder. It is best to contact a professional locksmith who will be ready to take out the damaged key and then make a replacement on the spot.
2. Drill into a hole
Even having a spare key you might not be able to access your vehicle if the key breaks inside the lock. The lock could be drilled out. be the best solution in these situations.
It is important to ensure that the keyhole is set for a basic tumbler. If it's not then you won't be able to drill out the pins and damage the lock's door or internal mechanism.
It is also important to know that you will be drilling through the outer layer of plastic and an inner metal layer. A small drill bit is enough to penetrate these layers, but you must be sure not to go any deeper than that. If you drill too deep it could cause damage to the wiring harness or cause the drill bit to become stuck inside the hole.
It is also recommended to wear a mask and protective equipment when working using drilling. This will keep the dust and dirt from entering your lungs.
In the end, it's a good idea to have two pairs of pliers and tweezers on hand in case the damaged piece of the key is sticking out of the lock. If the key is long enough to be able to be grasped with pliers and tweezers this will suffice to get it out. If not you'll need to use a tool such as this one to wedge the tool into the lock and then turn it towards the key to grip and remove it from the hole.
3. Drill a nail
If you cut your car key in half, it can leave you in a bind. There are several solutions to fix it without having to pay for a locksmith. car key repair service is to utilize a screw or nail. You can find these at home or at the hardware store. It is recommended to pick a nail as thin and long as possible. This way, you can place it into the hole, and then use epoxy to join the two parts together. It is also good to ensure that the back of the nail is flat. This will allow it to fit into the slot in the key. This will keep it from moving, and could even prevent it from breaking again in future.
4. Super Glue
A lot of motorists use DIY hacks like using super glue to try and fix a broken car key, but this is a risky way to go. You could end up damaging the lock and have to pay more for getting a replacement from the dealership or a locksmith.
First, you need to take a look at the keys that have been damaged and make sure that they are identical in terms of 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 put in place. Then, using a piece of fine-grit paper or a metal filing, smooth out the edges of the broken pieces. This will help the glue bond stronger and decrease the chance of a key falling loose in the future.
After finishing the edges after polishing, apply a small amount (about the size of a pea) of super glue to one end. Use only a small amount of super glue as 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 broken key and pressing them together, you can press them. After a few minutes the glue will begin to set and bind to the key pieces.
Another common household item that can be used to remove a damaged car key is a bobby or paperclip pin that can be made into a pick-like tool and inserted in the lock. This method is particularly helpful in the event that the broken part is close or inside the keyway or lock hole.
Another important thing to note is that if your car key is equipped with electronic components and requires an entirely new key by the dealership or an experienced locksmith. The key must be reprogrammed using a new code and the chip inside the key will need to be changed. However, if the shell or metal portion of the key is damaged, it usually just requires the cutting of a new key and doesn't require replacement or reprogramming of electronics.