How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're in a hurry 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 a few options you can try to fix it before calling a locksmith. Here are some quick solutions: 1. Super Glue.
1. Contact an expert locksmith
One of the worst things that can happen to a car owner is a damaged key in the lock. This situation is even more painful if it occurs when the driver is hurrying to get somewhere or to drop off the child. In this case it is essential to act swiftly and try to release the stuck key.
It is best to call an expert locksmith for this job as they will be able to use the right tools to remove the broken key without damage the lock. Many people will have a look around their car for something small and rigid like a paperclip, or toothpick, but this usually won't work as it's too thick to be able to get into the lock.
The best solution is to look for a pair of tweezers, as these are quite thin and can easily get into the key hole in the lock. key repair shop near me should be rigid 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 trying to locate key extractors that are often available in auto parts stores. They are narrow and flat with hooks that are small enough to be inserted into the key hole and grip onto the damaged part of the key.
A magnetic key hook can be used to adhere to the metal of the lock, and then remove it. This isn't always a good idea since it is possible for it to be caught in the lock and cause further damage to it. In this instance, it's best to call an experienced locksmith.
Some people attempt to join two pieces of a damaged car key with superglue in order to remove it from the lock. However, this can be very risky as the bits of metal could stick to each other and then fall apart later. It is also crucial not to turn the key, as this can cause further damage to the lock or the ignition cylinder. Get a locksmith professional to replace the broken key immediately.
2. Drill a hole
Even with a spare key you may not be able to access your vehicle if a key is broken inside the lock. Drilling out the lock may be the best option in these situations.
First, you need to make sure that the key hole is designed to accept 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 damaging the lock mechanism.
It is important to note that you'll be drilling through the outer layer of plastic as well as an inner metal layer. You can drill through these layers using a a small drill bit, however, you should not go any further. If you drill to deep it could damage the internal wiring harness or cause the drill bit to become stuck within the hole.
It is also recommended to wear a mask and protective gear when working with drilling. This will stop dust and dirt from entering your lung.
It's also a good idea when the broken piece of key is still sticking out of the lock, to keep pliers and tweezers handy. If there is enough of the key to be able to grasp with tweezers or pliers, this could suffice to pull it out of the lock. If not, however you'll need to use a tool such as this one to wedge the tool inside the lock, and then turn it toward the key in order to grip it and remove it from the hole.
3. Drill a nail
You could be left without a home if you break your key in half. There are several ways to fix the problem without the expense of an locksmith. The first step is to use the screw or nail. They are available at home or in the hardware store. However, it is best to try to find a nail that is as thin and as long as you can. So you can insert it into the hole, and then apply epoxy glue to join the two pieces. Make sure that the back of the nails is 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 use DIY hacks, like using super glue, to fix a broken key. This is a dangerous practice. You could damage the lock and be forced to pay more money to replace it.
The first step is to examine the broken keys and make sure that they match each other in terms of size. This is crucial to ensure that all pieces that have been glued are aligned correctly and that the key fits into the lock after they've been bonded. Then, using a piece of fine-grit paper or a metal filing, smooth out the edges of the damaged pieces. This will help the glue stick better and lessen the risk of a loose key in the future.
Once you have polished the edges of the damaged key and polished them, apply a small amount super glue to one of the ends. Be careful not to use too much glue, because this could cause the key to become too thick and may be difficult to fit into the lock. Then, you can carefully place the two pieces of the key and press them together. After a few minutes the glue will begin to set and join to the key pieces.
Another household item that can be used to to remove a damaged car key is a bobby or paperclip pin which can be cut into a pick-like device and put into the lock. This method is particularly useful in the event that the broken part is close or within the keyway or lock hole.
Another thing to remember is that if your car key is equipped with electronic components that require an entirely new key from the dealer or a professional locksmith. This is because the key needs to be programmed with a brand new code and the key chip will need to be replaced. If, however, only the shell or metal portion of the key breaks the key, it will usually only require the cutting of a new key and doesn't require replacement or reprogramming of electronics.