How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're rushing 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 resolve the issue before calling a locksmith. Here are a few easy fixes:1. Super Glue.
1. Contact a locksmith
One of the worst things that can happen to an owner of a vehicle is a damaged key in locks. This can be even more frustrating if it occurs while the driver is trying to get to work or to drop off the child. In this case it is crucial to act quickly and attempt to free the stuck key.
Calling an experienced locksmith is the best option as they will have the right tools and know how to get rid of the broken keys without damaging the lock. Many people look around the vehicle for something thin and rigid such as a paperclip or toothpick, but these typically won't work since it is too thick to enter the lock.
The best solution is to use a pair tweezers. They are thin and easily fit into the lock. They should be rigid enough to grasp the damaged part of a key and then pull it out. If you don't have tweezers, it might be worth trying to locate key extractors which are typically available in auto parts stores. These are flat and narrow with small hooks that can be put into the key hole and then grip on the broken piece of the key.
Another option is to locate a magnetic key hook that is able to stick to the metal inside the lock and pull it out. This is not always the best option, as it can sometimes be caught in the lock and cause further damage to the lock. In this instance, it's best to call an experienced locksmith.
Some people attempt to stick the two pieces of their broken car key together with superglue, as it will help them get it out of the lock. However, this could be very risky as the bits of metal may cling 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 better to call an expert locksmith who will be ready to take the broken key and make an immediate replacement.
2. Drill a hole
Even with 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 instances.
First, you will want to ensure that the key hole is set to take a basic tumbler car key. If it isn't it, you will not be able to remove the pins without damaging the door, and possibly destroying the internal lock mechanism.
It is important to keep in mind that you'll be drilling through an outer layer of plastic as well as an inner layer of metal. A small drill bit is sufficient to penetrate these layers, but you must be sure not to go further than this. Drilling too deep can damage the internal wiring harness, or cause the drill to become stuck.
Wearing a mask or protective equipment is also recommended when working with drills. This will keep the dust and dirt from entering your lungs.
It's an excellent idea, in the event that the key fragment is broken and remains stuck in the lock, to have pliers and tweezers handy. If the key is long enough to be held by pliers and tweezers this will suffice to get it out. If there isn't, however, you will need to use a tool such as this one to encase the tool into the lock and then turn it toward the key to grasp it and pull it out of the hole.
3. Drill a nail
You could be left without a home if you break your key in half. There are a variety of ways to solve the issue without the expense of an locksmith. The first option is to use a nail or screw. They can be found in your home or at a hardware store. It is recommended to select a nail as thin and as long as you can. This way, you can place it into the hole and then use epoxy to connect the two pieces together. Make sure that the back of the nails are flat. This will allow it to fit into the slot cut in the key. This will prevent it from moving and potentially breaking again in the future.
4. Super Glue
Many auto owners resort to DIY techniques, such as using super glue, to fix a broken key. This is a risky practice. You could end up ruining the lock and having to pay more for getting a replacement from the dealership or locksmith.
First, examine the broken keys and make sure they are identical in terms of size. This step is essential to ensure that all the pieces that have been glued are aligned correctly and that the key fits in the lock after they've been joined. Then, use the fine-grit sandpaper or a metal file to smooth out the edges on the broken pieces of the key. This will make the glue stick better and lessen the risk of a key becoming loose in the future.
After you've polished the edges of the broken key then apply a small amount of super glue to one of the ends. Only apply tiny amounts of super glue, as too much can make the key too large. car remote key repair near me will then be difficult to fit into the lock. Then, carefully place the two pieces of the key and press them together. After several seconds, the glue will start to set and join the key fragments together.
A bobby-pin or a paperclip can also be used as a tool to extract a broken key from the lock. They can be shaped like a pick and inserted into the lock. This technique is particularly helpful when the damage is located within or close to the keyway or the ignition hole.
Another important thing to note is that if the broken car key is equipped with electronic components and requires a new key cut from the dealer or an experienced locksmith. This is because the key will have to be programmed with a brand new code and the chip must be replaced. If only the metal or shell of the key breaks it will be necessary to replace the cut. It is not necessary to reprogramme or replace electronics.