How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're heading to work, in rush, and put your keys to your car in the ignition. You try to turn the key but it is unable to get into the lock.
There are a few options you can resolve the issue before calling a locksmith. Here are a few quick fixes:: 1. Super Glue.
1. Call a Locksmith
One of the worst things that can happen to an owner of a vehicle is a damaged key in the lock. This can be particularly frustrating if the driver is trying to get somewhere, or drop off a kid. In this situation you must act swiftly to attempt to get the key out of the way.
Contacting broken key repair is the best option as they will have the proper tools and know how to get rid of the keys that are broken without damaging the lock. Many people look around their car for something small and rigid like a paperclip or toothpick, but this typically won't work since it is too thick to be able to get into the lock.
A much better solution is to look for a pair of tweezers, because they are thin and easily reach the key hole within the lock. They should be rigid enough to grasp the broken piece of a key, and then pull it out. If you don't have tweezers it might be worth searching for keys extractors which are typically found in auto parts stores. They are thin and flat with small hooks that can be put into the key hole, and then hold onto the broken bit of the key.
Another possible solution is to find the magnetic key hook that can stick to the metal inside the lock and be pulled out. This isn't always the best option since it is possible for it to get caught under the lock and cause further damage to it. In this case, it's best to call a professional locksmith.
Some people try to join the two pieces of a damaged car key with superglue in order to remove it from the lock. This could be risky since the metal pieces could snag and break later. It is essential not to turn the key because this could cause further damage to the lock or ignition cylinder. It is better to call an expert locksmith who will be on hand to take 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 breaks inside the lock. A drill may be the best solution in these situations.
The first step is to ensure that the key hole is set to take a basic tumbler car key. If it's not there, you won't be able to drill the pins out and damage the lock's door or mechanism.
It is also important to know that you will be drilling through the outer plastic layer and an inner layer of metal. You can drill through these layers using a the smallest drill bit but you should not go any further. In the event of drilling too deep, it could cause damage to the wiring harness or cause the drill to snag.
Wearing a mask or other protective gear is also advised when using drills. This will keep dirt and dust from entering your respiratory system.
It is also a good idea, when the broken piece of key remains stuck in the lock, to keep pliers and tweezers at hand. If the key is extending enough to be able to be grasped with pliers and tweezers it will be enough to get it out. If not, you'll need to use a tool such as this to wedge it in the lock, and then turn it toward the key to grab and pull it out.
3. Drill a nail
You may be left in limbo in the event that you break your key in half. There are several ways to solve the issue without having to pay an locksmith. The first thing you can do is use the screw or nail. broken key repair can find these in your house or at the hardware store. It is recommended to select nails that are as thin and long as possible. This will allow you to fit it into the hole and then use epoxy to join the two pieces. It is also important to ensure that the nail's back is flat. This will allow it to fit into the slot cut in the key. This will prevent it from moving and breaking in the future.
4. Super Glue
A lot of car owners resort to DIY techniques such as using super glue to try and fix a broken car key, but this is a dangerous thing to do. You could end up damaging the lock and have to spend more money on getting a replacement from the dealership or a locksmith.
First, examine the keys that have been damaged and make sure they are in terms of size. This is crucial to ensure that all glued pieces are aligned correctly and that the key will fit in the lock after they've been joined. Then, using a piece of fine-grit paper or a metal filing, smooth the edges of the damaged pieces. This will improve the bond of glue and decrease the likelihood of a future key that is loose.
After 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 tiny amounts 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 pieces of the key and press them together. After a few moments the glue will begin to set and bond together the key fragments.
A bobby-pin or a paperclip can also be used to remove a broken key from the lock. They can be cut like a pick and 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.
Another important point to keep in mind is that if the broken car key has electronic components that require a new key cut from the dealer or an experienced locksmith. This is because the key will have to be programmed with a brand new code and the key chip will need to be replaced. If only the metal or shell of the key breaks, you will need to have a new cut. You won't need to reprogramme or replace electronics.