How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're rushing to get to work and jam your keys into the ignition. Then you try turning it around, and it breaks from the lock!
There are a few things you could do to solve the issue before contacting a professional locksmith. Here are a few quick solutions. Super Glue.
1. Call a Locksmith
One of the worst things that could happen to the owner of a car is a damaged key in locks. This can be particularly frustrating if the driver is trying to get somewhere, or to drop off a kid. In this case, you should act quickly to try and get the key out of the way.
Calling an experienced locksmith is the best option, because they'll have the right tools and know how to remove the keys that are broken without damaging the lock. Many people will have a look around the vehicle to find something light and sturdy like a paperclip, or toothpick, but these usually won't work as it's too thick to be able to get into the lock.
The best solution is to use a pair tweezers. They are lightweight and can easily reach into the lock. They should also be strong enough to grasp the broken part of the key and then pull it out. If you don't own tweezers, it might be worth looking for a set that is available at auto parts stores. They are narrow, flat and have tiny hooks. They can be inserted through the keyhole to take the broken portion of the key.
A magnetic key hook can be used to attach to the metal inside the lock and then remove it. This is not always the best option because it could become stuck under the lock and cause further damage to the lock. In this case it is recommended to contact a professional locksmith.
Some people attempt to glue the two pieces of their snapped car key together with superglue, as it will help them remove it from the lock. However, this is extremely risky since the pieces of metal may cling to each other and then fall apart later. It is essential not to turn the key as this could cause further damage to your lock or the ignition cylinder. It is better to call a professional locksmith who will be on hand to take the broken key and make a replacement on the spot.
2. Drill a hole
Sometimes a key breaks inside the lock, and even if you have a spare, you might not be able to gain access to your vehicle. In these situations drilling the lock is the best option.
The first step is to ensure that the key hole is set up to accept a basic tumbler car key. If it's not, you won't have the ability to drill the pins out and damage the lock's door or 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 using a a small drill bit, however, you should not go any further. If you drill to deep it could harm the wiring harness inside or cause the drill bit to become stuck in the hole.
Wearing a protective mask or equipment is also advised when using a drill. This will prevent dust and dirt from entering your respiratory system.
It's also a good idea in the event that the key fragment is broken and is sticking out of the lock, to keep two pairs of pliers and tweezers handy. If there is enough of the key to be grasped by tweezers, or pliers, this will suffice to pull it out of the lock. If there isn't, however, you will require an instrument like this one to insert the tool in the lock and then rotate it towards the key to grip and remove it from the hole.
3. Drill a nail
If you cut your car key in half, it could cause you to be trapped. There are several ways to fix the issue without having to pay a locksmith. The first method is to use a nail or screw. They can be found in your home or in a hardware store. It is best to choose nails that are as thin and long as you can. This will allow you to fit it in the hole and then use epoxy to join the two parts together. It is also important to ensure that the back of the nail is level. This will make it easier to fit in the cut slot of the key. This will prevent it from moving around and potentially breaking again in the future.
4. Super Glue
Many car owners tend to make use of DIY hacks such as using super glue to attempt to fix a damaged car key, but this is a dangerous thing to do. You could end up damaging the lock and have to spend more money on replacing it from the dealer or a locksmith.
You need to check the keys that are broken first and make sure they are the same size. keys repair is essential to ensure that the pieces are properly aligned and the key will fit into the lock once they have been bonded. Then, using a piece fine-grit paper or a metal filing, smooth the edges of the damaged pieces. This will help make the glue bond better and reduce the chances of a loose key in the future.
After you have polished the edges of the broken key and polished them, apply a small amount super glue to one of the ends. Be careful not to apply too much, because this could cause the key to become too heavy and it will be difficult to fit into the lock. After that, carefully align the two broken pieces of the key and press them together. After a few moments the glue will begin to set and join together the key fragments.
A paperclip or bobby-pin can also be used as a tool to remove a broken key from an lock. They can be cut as a pick, and then inserted into the lock. This method is especially useful in the event that the broken part is in or near the keyway or ignition hole.
Another important point to keep in mind is that if the damaged car key is equipped with electronic components and requires the cutting of a new key from the dealership or a professional locksmith. The key must be reprogrammed using a different code, and the chip inside the key must be changed. If only the metal or shell of the key is damaged, you will need to get a new cut. You don't have to reprogramme or replace electronics.