How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're rushing to get to work, and put your keys in the ignition. Then you try turning it into a lock, and it snaps from the lock!
There are several ways you can attempt to solve the issue before calling a locksmith. Here are a few easy fixes:1. Super Glue.
1. Contact a locksmith
A broken key in the lock is among the worst things a car owner could face. This situation is even more frustrating if it occurs while the driver is trying to get somewhere or to drop off the child. In this case, it is important to act quickly and try to get the key out of the way.
Calling an experienced locksmith is the best option because they'll have the proper tools and know how to remove the keys that are broken without damaging the lock. A lot of people look around their car for something thin and rigid like a paperclip or toothpick, but these typically won't work since it is too thick to be able to get into the lock.
A much better solution is to find an tweezers set, because they are thin and easily reach the key hole inside the lock. They should also be strong enough to hold the damaged part of the key and remove it. If you don't have tweezers then you might consider searching for key extractors that are often sold in auto parts stores. They are narrow, flat and have small hooks. key repair can be put in the keyhole and take the broken portion of the key.
A magnetic key hook can be used to stick to the metal of the lock and then remove it. This isn't always a good option since it is possible for it to become stuck under the lock and cause further damage to the lock. In this instance it is best to contact an experienced locksmith.
Some people attempt to join the two pieces of their car key that have snapped together using superglue, thinking that it can aid them in remove it from the lock. However, this is extremely risky since the pieces of metal could snag on to each other and then break apart later. It is also crucial not to turn the key since this could cause further damage to the lock or ignition cylinder. It is recommended to contact an expert locksmith who will be ready to take out the broken key and create an immediate replacement.
2. Drill into a hole
Even having a spare key you may not be able access your vehicle if the key breaks inside the lock. A drill may be the best solution in these situations.
You will first want to make sure that the keyhole is set for a basic tumbler. If it's not, you won't be able to remove the pins and cause damage to the lock's door or internal mechanism.
It is also important to understand that you will be drilling through the outer plastic layer and an inner metal layer. A small drill bit is sufficient to cut through these layers, but you need to be sure not to go any deeper than that. If you drill too deeply, it can cause damage to the wiring harness, or cause the drill to stick.
It is also recommended to wear a mask and protective equipment when working with drilling. This will prevent dust and dirt from entering your respiratory system.
It is also recommended to have pliers and tweezers on hand in case the broken key is sticking out of the lock. If the key is protruding enough to be gripped with pliers and tweezers, this will suffice to get it out. If not, however, you will require tools like this one to wedge the tool inside the lock, and then turn it toward the key in order to grip it and remove it from the hole.
3. Drill a nail
You may be left in limbo in the event that you break your key in half. There are fortunately several solutions to fix it without having to pay for a locksmith. The first way is to make use of a screw or nail. You can find these in your house or at the hardware store. It is recommended to search for a nail that is as thin and as long as you can. This will allow you to fit it into the hole and then use epoxy to link the two pieces. Make sure that the back of the nails are flat. This will allow it to fit into the slot in the key. This will stop 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 key. This is a dangerous practice. You could cause damage to the lock, and then have to shell out more money for a replacement.
You must examine the keys that are broken first and make sure they are of the same size. This step is essential to ensure that all the pieces that have been glued are aligned correctly and that the key fits into the lock after they've been joined. After that, you can use a piece of sandpaper with fine-grit or a metal file to smooth the edges of the broken pieces of the key. This will improve the bond of glue and decrease the possibility of a key that is loose.
After finishing the edges, apply only a small amount (about an amount of pea-sized) of super glue on the other side. Only apply tiny amounts of super glue, since too much could make the key too large. It will then be difficult to fit into the lock. After lining up the two pieces of the key that broke, press them together. After a few minutes the glue will begin to set and join 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 shaped into a pick-like device and put into the lock. This technique is especially helpful when the damage is close to or inside the keyway or lock hole.
Another important thing to note is that if the broken car key is equipped with electronic components and requires 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 new code and the chip must be replaced. In contrast, if only the metal or shell of the key is damaged the key, it will usually only require the cutting of a new key and doesn't require any reprogramming or replacing of the electronics.