How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're in a hurry to get to work, and put your keys in the ignition. You try to turn it around, and it breaks from the lock!
Luckily, there are several ways you can fix it before calling a locksmith. Here are a few quick fixes:: 1. Super Glue.
1. Contact for a locksmith
A broken key in the lock is among the worst things a car owner could experience. This can be even more painful if it occurs when the driver is trying to get somewhere or to drop off a child. In this case it is crucial to act quickly and try to free the stuck key.
It is best to call an expert locksmith for this job for this job, as they will be able to use the correct tools to take out the broken key without harm the lock. Many people will have a look around the vehicle to find something light and sturdy such as a paperclip or toothpick, however this typically won't work since it's too thick to be able to get into the lock.
The best solution is to find a pair of tweezers, as these are quite thin and easily reach the key hole in the lock. They should be rigid enough to grasp the broken piece of a key and then pull it out. If you don't own tweezers, it's 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 then hold onto the broken bit of the key.
Another possible solution is to find an magnetic key hook that is able to stick to the metal inside the lock and then pull it out. This isn't always the best choice as it could be caught under the lock and cause further damage. In such a situation, it is best to contact an expert locksmith.
Some people attempt to join the two pieces of a broken car key using superglue in order to take it out of the lock. However, this could be very risky as the bits of metal may cling to one another and break apart again later on. It is also essential not to turn the key, because this could cause damage to the lock or the ignition cylinder. Call a professional locksmith to repair the damaged key immediately.
2. Drill a Hole
Sometimes, a key gets damaged inside the lock, and even with a spare, you might not be capable of opening the door to your vehicle. The lock could be drilled out. be the best option in these instances.
First, you need to ensure that the key hole is designed to accept a standard tumbler car key. If it's not, you won't be able to remove the pins without damaging the door, and potentially destroying the lock mechanism.
It is important to keep in mind that you will drill through the outer layer of plastic as well as an inner metal layer. You can drill through these layers with the smallest drill bit but you shouldn't go any deeper. Drilling too deep can damage the internal wiring harness or cause the drill to snag.
It is also recommended to wear a face mask and protective gear while working using drills. This will stop dirt and dust from entering your lung.
Finally, it is a good idea to have a pair of pliers and tweezers available in case the broken piece of the key is sticking out of the lock. If there is enough of the key to grip with tweezers or pliers, this will be sufficient to get it out of the lock. If not, you'll need to use a tool such as this to encase it into the lock and then turn it towards the key to grab it and remove it.
3. Drill a nail
If you cut your car key in half, it could cause you to be in a bind. Luckily, there are a few solutions to fix it without paying for locksmith. The first step is to use screws or nails. You can find these at home or in a hardware store. It is recommended to pick the nail that is as thin and as long as you can. You can then insert it into the hole and then apply epoxy glue to join the two pieces. Make sure that the back of the nails are flat. This will allow it to fit into the cut slot of the key. This will prevent it from moving and potentially breaking again in future.
4. Super Glue
Many motorists use DIY hacks such as using super glue to attempt to fix a damaged car key, however this is a dangerous way to go. You could damage the lock, and have to pay more money for a replacement.
You must examine the broken keys first, and ensure that they're the same size. This is crucial to ensure that all pieces that have been glued are aligned correctly and that the key will fit inside the lock once they have been bonded. Then, use the fine-grit sandpaper or a metal file to smooth the edges on the broken pieces of the key. This will strengthen the glue's bond and decrease the likelihood of a future loose key.
After polishing the edges After polishing the edges, apply only a small amount (about a pea-sized amount) of super glue to the other side. Only apply tiny amounts of super glue, since excessive amounts can make the key too large. It will then be difficult to fit into the lock. After lining up the two pieces of the broken key, press them together. After a few moments the glue will begin to set and bind to the key pieces.
Another household item that can be used to help remove a damaged car key is a paperclip or bobby pin that can be made into a pick-like tool, then placed inside the lock. Read the Full Write-up is particularly helpful in the event that the broken part is inside or near the keyway or ignition hole.
Another important thing to note is that if the damaged car key is equipped with electronic components, it will require an entirely new key by the dealership or a professional locksmith. The key will need to be reprogrammed with a different code, and the chip inside the key needs to be replaced. If the metal or shell of the key is damaged, you will need to replace the cut. You don't have to reprogramme or replace electronic components.