How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're headed to work in a hurry, and jam your keys in the ignition. You try turning the key, but it snaps in the lock.
There are a few options you can try to fix it before calling a locksmith. Here are a few quick fixes:: 1. 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 frustrating if it occurs while the driver is rushing to get somewhere or to drop off the child. In this case, it is important to act swiftly and try to release the stuck key.
A locksmith with experience is the best option, as they will have the right tools and know how to remove the broken keys without damaging the lock. Many people will have a look around the vehicle for something small and rigid like a paperclip or toothpick, but this usually won't work as it's too heavy to enter the lock.
The best option is to find a pair of tweezers because they are thin and easily reach the key hole inside the lock. They should be strong enough to grasp the broken piece of a key and then pull it out. If you don't own tweezers then it may be worth searching for keys extractors which are typically available in auto parts stores. They are thin, flat and have hooks that are small. They can be inserted through the keyhole to take the broken portion of the key.
A magnetic key hook can be used to attach to the metal inside the lock, and then remove it. This isn't always the best choice as it can get caught under the lock and cause damage. In this situation it is recommended to contact a professional locksmith.
Some people try to glue the two pieces of their snapped car key together with superglue, as it can aid them in remove it from the lock. However, this is very risky as the bits of metal may cling to one another and break apart later. It is also crucial not to turn the key, since this could cause further damage to the lock or the ignition cylinder. It is recommended to contact an expert locksmith who will be able to take out the broken key and make a replacement on the spot.
2. Drill a hole
Even with a spare key you might not be able to access your vehicle if a key is broken inside the lock. In these instances drilling the lock is the most effective option.
First, car key repair service need to ensure that the key hole is set up to take a basic tumbler car key. If it's not then you won't be able to drill the pins without damaging the door and possibly damaging the lock mechanism.
It is also important to know that you'll be drilling through the outer layer of plastic and an inner metal layer. A small drill bit will suffice to cut through these layers, but you need to be sure not to go any deeper than that. In the event of drilling too deep, it could damage the internal wiring harness or cause the drill to snag.
It is also recommended to wear a mask and protective gear while working using a drill. This will stop dust and dirt from getting into your lungs.
It's an excellent idea, in the event that the key fragment is broken and remains stuck in the lock, to keep pliers and tweezers handy. If there is enough of the key sticking out to grip with tweezers or pliers, this could suffice to pull it out of the lock. If not, however you'll require a tool such as this one to insert the tool into 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. Luckily, there are several solutions to fix it without having to pay for a locksmith. The first method is to utilize a screw or nail. These can be found in your home or in a hardware store. But, it is best to search for the 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 together. It is also important to ensure that the back of the nail is flat. This will help it to fit into the cut slot of the key. This will prevent it from moving, and could even prevent it from breaking again in the future.
4. Super Glue
Many car owners use DIY hacks, like using super glue to repair a damaged or broken key. This is a risky practice. You could end up damaging the lock, and then have to shell out more to replace it.
First, examine the keys that have been damaged and ensure that they are identical in terms of size. This is essential to ensure that the pieces will be aligned properly and that the key fits into the lock once they are bonded together. Then, using a piece fine-grit paper or a metal filing, smooth out the edges of the broken pieces. This will help make the glue bond better and reduce the chances of a key falling loose in the future.
After you have polished the edges of the damaged key then apply a small amount of super glue to one of the ends. Use only the smallest amount of super glue, as excessive amounts can make the key too large. It will then be difficult to fit into the lock. After aligning the two pieces of the key that broke and pressing them together, you can press them. After a short time, the glue will begin to set and join together the key fragments.
Another household item that can be used to remove a damaged car key is a bobby or paperclip pin, which can be shaped into a pick-like tool and inserted in the lock. This technique is especially helpful in the event that the broken part is close or inside the keyway or ignition lock hole.
A car key that is damaged and has electronic components will need a new key from a dealer or a professional locksmith. The key must be reprogrammed using a different code and the chip inside the key needs to be changed. If, however, only the metal or shell of the key breaks the key, it will usually only require an entirely new key cut, and doesn't require any replacement or reprogramming of electronic components.