How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're in a hurry to get your work done and put your keys in the ignition. Then you try turning it around, and it breaks in the lock!
There are a few things you could do to solve the issue before calling an experienced locksmith. Here are a few quick fixes. Super Glue.
1. Call a Locksmith
A damaged key in the lock is among the worst things a car owner can experience. This can be even more painful if it occurs when the driver is rushing to get to work or to drop off the child. In this case you must act swiftly to try and free the stuck key.
Contacting a professional locksmith is the best option, as they'll have the proper tools and know how to take out the broken keys without damaging the lock. Many people will have a look around the vehicle for something thin and rigid such as a paperclip or toothpick, but these typically won't work since it's too heavy to be able to get into the lock.
The best solution is to look for a pair of tweezers since they are very thin and can easily reach the key hole inside the lock. They should also be strong enough to grasp the broken part of the key and pull it out. If what do you think don't own tweezers, it's worth searching for a set available at auto parts stores. These are flat, narrow and have small hooks. They can be put in the keyhole and grasp the broken piece of the key.
A magnetic key hook can be used to adhere to the metal of the lock, and then remove it. 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 case, it's best to call an experienced locksmith.
Some people attempt to glue together the two pieces of a damaged car key using superglue in order to get it out of the lock. This can be dangerous because the pieces of metal may tangle and break later. It is essential not to turn the key because it could cause further damage to the lock or ignition cylinder. It is best to contact a professional locksmith who will be ready to remove the broken key and create an immediate replacement.
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. The lock could be drilled out. be the best option in these instances.
You will first want to ensure that the keyhole is set to accept a basic tumbler key. If it's not then you won't 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 an outer layer of plastic as well as an inner metal layer. A small drill bit is sufficient to get through these layers, but you need to ensure that you don't go any deeper than this. If you drill too deep it could harm the wiring harness inside or cause the drill bit to get stuck inside the hole.
It is also recommended to wear a face mask and protective gear when working with drills. This will keep dust and dirt from getting into your respiratory system.
It is also recommended to have a pair of pliers and tweezers in your possession in case the broken key is sticking out of the lock. If there is enough of the key protruding to be grasped by tweezers, or pliers, this should be sufficient to get it out of the lock. If not, however you'll require an instrument like this one to wedge the tool in the lock and then rotate it toward the key in order to grip it and pull it out of the hole.
3. Drill a nail
You can be left stranded when you cut your key in half. There are several ways to solve the issue without the expense of locksmith. The first step is use the screw or nail. You can find them at home or at a hardware store. It is recommended to pick nails that are as thin and 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 nail's back is flat. This will allow it to fit into the slot in the key. This will prevent it from moving and potentially breaking again in the future.
4. Super Glue
Many car owners tend to resort to DIY techniques like using super glue to try and fix a broken car key, however this is a dangerous option to make. You could end up ruining the lock and needing to spend more money on getting a replacement from the dealership or locksmith.
First, examine the broken keys and ensure that they are identical in terms of size. This step is essential to ensure that all the glued pieces are aligned correctly and that the key will fit in the lock after they have been joined. Then, using a piece of fine-grit paper or a metal filing, smooth the edges of the damaged pieces. This will strengthen the glue's bond and reduce the likelihood of a future key that is loose.
After polishing the edges after polishing, apply the smallest amount (about an amount of pea-sized) of super glue to one side. Be careful not to use too much, as this could cause the key to become too thick and it will be difficult to fit into the lock. After lining up the two pieces of the broken key and pressing them together, you can press them. After a few moments, the glue will begin to set and bind to the key pieces.
A paperclip or bobby-pin can also be used as a tool to extract a broken key from the lock. They can be shaped like a pick and then inserted into the lock. This method is particularly useful in the event that the broken part is close or within the keyway or lock hole.
A broken car key with electronic components will need a new key from a dealer or a professional locksmith. The key will need to be reprogrammed with a different code and the chip in the key must be replaced. If, however, only the shell or metal portion of the key is damaged it typically requires a new key cut and doesn't require any replacement or reprogramming of electronic components.