How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're in a hurry to get to work and put your keys in the ignition. Then you try to turn it, and it snaps off from the lock!
There are some things you can try to fix the issue before contacting an expert locksmith. Here are some quick fixes. Super Glue.
1. Contact a locksmith
One of the worst things that could happen to the owner of a car is a damaged key in a lock. This can be even more painful if it occurs when the driver is rushing to get somewhere or to drop off the child. In such a situation it is essential to act swiftly and try to free the stuck key.
It is best to call an experienced locksmith for this task as they will have the appropriate tools to remove the broken key and not damage the lock. Many people will have a look around in their vehicle to find something light and sturdy like a paperclip, or toothpick, however this typically won't work since it's too thick to enter the lock.
A much better solution is to find an tweezers set, as these are quite thin and can easily reach the key hole inside the lock. They should also be sturdy enough to grasp the broken part of the key and pull it out. If you don't have tweezers, it might be worth searching for keys extractors which are typically available in auto parts stores. These are flat and narrow with hooks that are small enough to be placed into the key hole, and then hold on the broken piece of the key.
A magnetic key hook can be used to adhere to the metal in the lock, and then pull it out. This isn't always the best option since it is possible for it to become stuck under the lock and cause further damage to the lock. In such a scenario it is advised to contact an expert locksmith.
Some people try to glue together the two pieces of a broken car key using superglue in order to get it out of the lock. However, this is extremely risky since the pieces of metal may cling to one another and break apart later. It is also essential not to turn the key, because this could cause damage to the lock or the ignition cylinder. It is best to contact a professional locksmith who will be able to remove the damaged key and then make a replacement on the spot.
2. Drill a hole
Sometimes a key is broken inside the lock, and even with a spare, you might not be capable of opening the door to your vehicle. Drilling out the lock may be the best solution in these instances.
First, you need to ensure that the key hole is designed 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 damaging the lock mechanism.
It is crucial to remember that you will drill through an outer layer of plastic as well as an inner layer of metal. You can drill through these layers with tiny drill bits, but you should not go any further. If you drill too deeply, it could harm the wiring harness inside or cause the drill bit to get stuck inside the hole.
Wearing a mask or protective gear is also recommended when using drilling. This will stop dust and dirt from entering your respiratory system.
It is also an excellent idea to keep pliers and tweezers on hand in case the broken key is sticking out of the lock. If the key is long enough to be able to be grasped with pliers and tweezers, this will suffice to get it out. If not, you'll have to use a tool such as this to encase it in the lock, and then turn it toward the key to grab it and pull it out.
3. Drill a nail
You may be left in limbo if you break your key in half. There are a number of options to fix the issue without the expense of an locksmith. The first thing you can do is to use a screw or nail. They can be found in your home or at a hardware store. It is recommended to select the nail that is as thin and long as possible. This way you can fit it into the hole, and then use epoxy to link the two pieces. Make sure that the back of the nails is flat. This will help it to fit in the cut slot of the key. This will stop it from moving around and breaking in the future.
4. Super Glue
Many motorists use DIY hacks, such as using super glue, to repair a damaged key. This is a risky method. key repair service near me could cause damage to the lock, and have to shell out more to replace it.
It is important to examine the keys that have been damaged first, and ensure that they are the same size. This is vital to ensure that the pieces are properly aligned and that the key fits into the lock once they are bonded together. Then, using a piece of fine-grit paper or a metal filing, smooth the edges of the broken pieces. This will improve the glue's bond and decrease the chance of a loose key.
After polishing the edges After polishing the edges, apply a small amount (about a pea-sized amount) of super glue on the other side. Use only the smallest amount of super glue, as excessive amounts can make the key too heavy. It will then be difficult to fit into the lock. After that, carefully place the two broken pieces of the key and press them together. After a few seconds the glue will begin to set and bind the key pieces together.
A bobby-pin or paperclip can also be used to remove a damaged key from an lock. They can be shaped like a pick and inserted into the lock. This technique is particularly useful if the break is within or near the keyway or ignition hole.
Another important point to keep in mind is that if the broken car key is equipped with electronic components and requires the cutting of a new key from the dealership or a professional locksmith. The key will have to be reprogrammed using a different code and the chip in the key will need to be replaced. If the metal or shell of the key breaks it will be necessary to replace the cut. You won't need to reprogramme or replace electronic components.