How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're in a hurry to get to work and jam your keys into the ignition. Then you try to turn it around, and it breaks in the lock!
Luckily, there are several ways you can try to solve the issue before calling a locksmith. Here are some quick solutions. Super Glue.
1. Contact for a locksmith
One of the worst things that could happen to a car owner is a broken key inside a lock. This situation is even more frustrating if it occurs while the driver is rushing to get to work or to drop off an infant. In this case you must act swiftly to attempt to remove the stuck key.
Calling an experienced locksmith is the best option, as they will have the proper tools and know how to take out the broken keys without damaging the lock. Many people will have a look around in their vehicle to find something light and sturdy such as a paperclip or toothpick, however this isn't likely to work as it's too thick to fit into the lock.
The best option is to use a pair of tweezers. They are thin and easily fit inside the lock. They should also be rigid enough to grasp the broken part of the key and pull it out. If you don't have tweezers, it could be worth looking for a set that is sold at auto parts stores. These are flat, narrow and have tiny hooks. They can be inserted through the keyhole to grab the broken part of the key.
Another possible solution is to locate an magnetic key hook that is able to be affixed to the metal inside the lock and be pulled out. This isn't always a good idea since it is possible for it to be caught in the lock and cause further damage to the lock. In this situation it is best to contact an experienced locksmith.
Some people try to glue together the two pieces of a damaged car key using superglue in order to get it out of the lock. However, this is very risky as the bits 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 on hand to take the broken key and create 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. A drill may be the best solution in these situations.
First, you need to ensure that the key hole is set up to accept a standard tumbler car key. If it isn't then you won't be able to drill the pins without damaging the door, and possibly damaging 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 will suffice to cut through these layers, but you need to be sure not to go further than this. If car key remote repair near me drill too deep it may damage the internal wiring harness or cause the drill bit to stick within the hole.
Wearing a mask or protective gear is also recommended when working with drilling. This will keep dust and dirt from entering your lungs.
It's also a good idea if the broken key piece is still sticking out of the lock, to keep a pair pliers and tweezers handy. If the key is protruding enough to be able to be grasped with pliers and tweezers, it will be enough to get it out. If not, you'll need to use an instrument such as this to wedge it into the lock and then turn it toward the key to grasp it and pull it out.
3. Drill a nail
You could be left without a home if you break your key in half. There are remote car key repair near me of ways to fix the problem without having to pay locksmith. The first way is to utilize a screw or nail. You can find these at home or in the hardware store. It is recommended to search 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 connect the two pieces together. Make sure that the nail's back is flat. This will allow it to fit into the slot cut in the key. This will stop it from moving around and breaking in the future.
4. Super Glue
Many car owners tend to resort to DIY hacks such as using super glue to repair a broken car key, but this is a risky thing to do. You could end up damaging the lock and have to spend more money on getting a replacement from the dealership or locksmith.
You need to check the keys that have been damaged first, and ensure that they are of the same size. This step is essential to ensure that all glued pieces are aligned correctly and that the key fits 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 damaged pieces. This will strengthen the glue's bond and reduce the possibility of a key that is loose.
Once 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 too much can make the key too heavy. It will then be difficult to fit into the lock. After lining up the two pieces of the key that broke and pressing them together, you can press them. After a few moments, the glue will begin to set and join to the key pieces.
A paperclip or bobby-pin can also be used as a tool to remove a broken key from the lock. They can be shaped like a pick and then inserted into the lock. This method is particularly helpful when the damage is close to or inside the keyway or lock hole.
A car key that is damaged and has electronic components will require a new key from the locksmith or dealer. This is because the key will have to be programmed with a new code and the key chip needs to be replaced. In contrast, if only the metal or shell of the key is damaged it typically requires the cutting of a new key and doesn't require replacement or reprogramming of electronic components.