How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're in a hurry to get to work and jam your keys into the ignition. Then you try turning it, and it snaps off from the lock!
There are a few things you could do to fix the problem before calling a professional locksmith. Here are a few quick fixes:: 1. Super Glue.
1. Call a Locksmith
A broken key in the lock is among the most unpleasant things a vehicle owner could face. This can be particularly frustrating when the driver is trying to get somewhere, or drop off an infant. In this scenario, you should act quickly to try to free the stuck key.
A locksmith with experience is the best choice, because they'll have the right tools and know how to get rid of the broken keys without damaging the lock. Many people will look for something that is thin and rigid, such as a toothpick or paperclip. But this isn't the best solution as they are too heavy to fit inside the lock.
The best option is to look for a pair of tweezers because they are thin and can easily get into the key hole in the lock. They should be strong enough to grasp the damaged part of a key, and then pull it out. If you don't own tweezers, it could be worth looking for a set that is sold at auto parts stores. They are narrow and flat with small hooks that can be inserted into the key hole, and then hold on the broken piece of the key.
Another possible solution is to find the magnetic key hook that will be affixed to the metal inside the lock and then pull it out. This is not always the best choice as it could get caught in a lock and cause more damage. In such a scenario, it is best to call locksmith.
Some people attempt to join the two pieces of their broken car key with superglue as this can help them to take it out of the lock. However, this can be extremely risky since the pieces of metal could stick to each other and then fall apart later. It is also crucial not to turn the key, because this could cause damage to the lock or the ignition cylinder. It is recommended to contact a professional locksmith who will be ready to remove the broken key and create a replacement on the spot.
2. Drill into a hole
Sometimes a key is broken inside the lock, and even with an extra key, you may not be in a position to gain access to your vehicle. In these situations, drilling out the lock is the best choice.
The first step is 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 drill the pins without damaging the door and possibly destroying the internal lock mechanism.
The next step is to be aware that you will be drilling through the outer plastic layer and the inner metal layer. A small drill bit is sufficient to penetrate these layers, but you need to ensure that you don't go any deeper than this. If you drill too deep it could cause damage to the wiring harness or cause the drill bit to stick inside the hole.
Wearing a protective mask or equipment is advised when using drilling. This will prevent dust and dirt from getting into your lungs.
In the end, it's an excellent idea to keep pliers and tweezers in your possession in the event that the broken piece of the key is sticking out of the lock. If there is enough of the key to grip with tweezers or pliers, this will suffice to pull it out of the lock. If not, however you'll need to use an instrument like this one to insert the tool in the lock and then turn it towards the key to grip and remove it from the hole.
3. Drill a nail
You may be left in limbo when you cut your key in half. There are several ways to fix the problem without the expense of an locksmith. The first step is use screws or nails. You can find these in your house or at a hardware store. However, it is best to look for a nail that is as thin and long as possible. This means you can put it into the hole, and then use epoxy glue to join the two pieces together. https://notes.io/wzC5U is also good to make sure the back of the nail is level. This will help it to fit into the cut slot of the key. This will prevent it from moving and potentially breaking again in the future.
4. Super Glue
Many motorists opt for DIY hacks, such as using super glue to fix a broken key. This is a dangerous method. You could end up damaging the lock, and have to shell out more money to get a new one.
The first step is to examine the keys that have been damaged and make sure that they are in terms of size. This is crucial to ensure that all glued pieces are aligned correctly and that the key fits inside the lock once they have been joined. Then, using a piece fine-grit paper or a metal filing, smooth out the edges of the broken pieces. This will improve the bond of glue and decrease the chance of a key that is loose.
Once you have polished the edges of the damaged key and polished them, apply a small amount super glue to one of the ends. Use only a small amount of super glue as too much could make the key too heavy. It will then be difficult to fit into the lock. Then, carefully place the two broken pieces of the key and press them together. After a short time, the glue will begin to set and join the key fragments.
A bobby-pin or paperclip can also be used to remove a damaged key from a lock. They can be cut like a pick and then inserted into the lock. This method is especially useful when the damage is located in or close to the keyway or ignition hole.
A car key that is damaged and has electronic components will require a 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 chip needs to be replaced. In contrast, if only the metal or shell of the key is damaged it typically requires the cutting of a new key and doesn't require replacement or reprogramming of the electronics.