How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're rushing to get your work done and you put your keys into the ignition. Then you try to turn it, and it snaps off from the lock!
Luckily, there are several ways you can attempt to fix it before calling a locksmith. Here are a few quick fixes. Super Glue.
1. Call a Locksmith
One of the worst things that can happen to the owner of a car is a broken key inside the lock. This is especially difficult if it happens while the driver is hurrying to get to work or to drop off the child. In this situation it is crucial to act swiftly and try to release the stuck key.
Calling an experienced locksmith is the best option as they will have the proper tools and know how to remove the keys that are broken without damaging the lock. Many people look for something small and stiff such as a toothpick or paperclip. However this isn't the best choice since they are too heavy to fit into the lock.
A much better solution is to find an tweezers set, as these are quite thin and easily reach the key hole inside the lock. car keys repair should be able to grasp the damaged part of a key and pull it out. If you don't have tweezers, it might be worth searching for a set available at auto parts stores. They are narrow and flat with hooks that are small enough to be put into the key hole and then grip onto the broken bit of the key.
Another possible solution is to find an magnetic key hook that will attach to the metal in the lock and then pull it out. This is not always the best option as it could get caught in the lock and cause damage. In this case, it is best to contact an expert locksmith.
Some people attempt to glue together the two pieces of a broken car key using superglue order to take it out of the lock. However, this is very risky as the bits of metal could stick to each other and then break apart again later on. It is crucial not to turn the key because it could cause further damage to your lock or the ignition cylinder. Get a locksmith professional to replace the broken key immediately.
2. Drill a Hole
Even having a spare key you may not be able access your vehicle if a key breaks inside the lock. In these instances, drilling out the lock is the best choice.
First, you must ensure that the keyhole is positioned for a basic tumbler key. If it isn't, you won't be able to drill out the pins without damaging the door, and possibly destroying the internal lock mechanism.
The next step is to understand that you will be drilling through the outer layer of plastic and an inner metal layer. You can drill through these layers with a small drill bit, but you shouldn't go any further. If you drill to deep, it could damage the internal wiring harness or cause the drill bit to stick inside the hole.
It is also recommended to wear a face mask and protective gear while working using drilling. This will stop dust and dirt from getting into your lung.
It is also recommended to have pliers and tweezers available in case the broken key is sticking out of the lock. If there is enough of the key sticking out to be grasped by tweezers, or pliers, this will suffice to pull it out of the lock. If not, you'll need to use a tool like this to wedge it in the lock, and then turn it towards the key to grab and pull it out.
3. Drill a nail
If you cut your car key in half, it can leave you trapped. There are a few solutions to fix it without having to pay for locksmith. The first step is use screws or nails. You can find these at home or at a hardware store. It is recommended to pick the nail that is as thin and long as possible. This means you can put it into the hole and then apply epoxy glue to join the two pieces. It is also important to make sure the back of the nail is flat. This will allow it to fit into the slot cut in the key. This will stop it from moving, and could even prevent it from breaking again in future.
4. Super Glue
Many car owners opt for DIY techniques, such as using super glue to repair a damaged or broken key. This is a risky method. You could end up ruining the lock and having to spend more money on replacing it from the dealer or locksmith.
First, you need to examine the keys that have been damaged and make sure they are in terms of size. This is essential to ensure that the glued pieces are properly aligned and the key will fit into the lock after they have been bonded. Then, use a piece of sandpaper with fine-grit or a metal file to smooth out the edges on the damaged pieces of the key. This will make the glue bond better and reduce the chances of a key becoming loose in the future.
Once you have polished the edges of the broken key, apply a small amount super glue to one of the ends. Only apply tiny amounts of super glue, as too much could make the key too heavy. It will then be difficult to fit into the lock. After that, carefully align the two broken pieces of the key and press them together. After a few minutes, the glue will begin to set and bond the key fragments.
Another household item that can be used to extract a broken car key is a paperclip or bobby pin, which can be shaped into a pick-like device and inserted in the lock. This method is particularly useful if the break is near or within the keyway or lock 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 from the dealer or a professional locksmith. The key must be reprogrammed using a new code and the chip inside the key must be changed. However, if the shell or metal portion of the key is damaged the key, it will usually only require an entirely new key cut, and doesn't require any replacement or reprogramming of electronic components.