How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're on your way to work in rush, and put your keys in the ignition. Then you try to turn it into a lock, and it snaps in the lock!
There are a few things you can do to solve the issue before contacting an experienced locksmith. Here are some easy fixes. Super Glue.
1. Contact a locksmith
One of the most devastating things that could happen to the owner of a car is a broken key inside a lock. repair car key can be even more frustrating if it occurs while the driver is trying to get to work or to drop off an infant. In this scenario, you should act quickly to try and get the key out of the way.
It is recommended to contact an expert locksmith for this job, because he or she can use the right tools to remove the broken key and not damage the lock. Many people look for something small and stiff such as paperclips or toothpicks. However, this is not the best option since they are too thick to fit inside the lock.
The best option is to use a pair of tweezers. They are lightweight and are able to easily get into the lock. They should be able to grasp the damaged part of a key and pull it out. If you don't have tweezers, it could be worth searching for a set available at auto parts stores. They are thin, flat and have tiny hooks. They can be put through the keyhole to grab the broken part of the key.
A magnetic key hook can be used to adhere to the metal inside the lock and then remove it. This is not always the best option since it could be caught under the lock and cause further damage. In such a situation, it is best to call an expert locksmith.
Some people try to stick the two pieces of their broken car key together using superglue, thinking that this can help them to get it out of the lock. This can be dangerous because the pieces of metal may tangle and break later. It is also crucial not to turn the key, since this could cause further damage to the lock or ignition cylinder. It is better to call a professional locksmith who will be ready to take the damaged key and then make an immediate replacement.
2. Drill a hole
Even having a spare key you might not be able to access your vehicle if a key breaks inside the lock. Drilling out the lock may be the best solution in these instances.
The first step is to make sure that the key hole is designed to accept a standard tumbler car key. If it's not, you won't 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 metal layer. A small drill bit is sufficient to cut through these layers, but you need to be sure to not go any deeper than this. If you drill too deeply, it could damage the internal wiring harness or cause the drill bit to get stuck inside the hole.
Wearing a protective mask or equipment is also recommended when using a drill. This will keep dirt and dust from entering your respiratory system.
It is also a good idea in the event that the key fragment is broken and remains stuck in the lock, to keep pliers and tweezers handy. If there is enough of the key to grip with tweezers or pliers, this should suffice to pull it out of the lock. If not, you'll have to use an instrument such as this to encase it into the lock and then rotate it towards the key to grab and remove it.
3. Drill a Nail
If you cut your car key in half, it could leave you stranded. There are fortunately a few solutions to fix it without paying for a locksmith. The first option is to use a nail or screw. You can find them in your house or at a hardware store. But, it is best to look for a nail that is as thin as it can be and as long as is possible. This will allow you to fit it in the hole and then use epoxy to join the two pieces. Make sure that the back of the nails is flat. This will allow it to fit into the slot cut in the key. This will stop it from moving and potentially breaking again in future.
4. Super Glue
Many car owners resort to DIY techniques, such as using super glue, to repair a damaged key. This is a dangerous practice. You could damage the lock and be forced to pay more money to get a new one.
It is important to examine the keys that have been damaged first and make sure they're the same size. This step is crucial to ensure that the glued parts will be properly aligned and that the key fits into the lock after they are bonded together. Then, using a piece of fine-grit paper or a metal filing, smooth the edges of the damaged pieces. This will help the glue bond better and decrease the chance of a key falling loose in the future.
After finishing the edges, apply only a small amount (about an amount of pea-sized) of super glue to the other side. Be careful not to use too much glue, as this can 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 key that broke then press them together. After some time, the glue will start to set and bond the key fragments together.
A paperclip or bobby-pin can also be used to remove a damaged key from an lock. They can be shaped as a pick, and then inserted into the lock. This method is particularly useful when the damage is close to or inside the keyway or lock hole.
A car key that has been damaged with electronic components will require an entirely new key from the dealer or a professional locksmith. This is because the key will need to be programmed with a brand new code and the chip will need to be replaced. In contrast, if only the metal or shell of the key breaks the key, it will usually only require the cutting of a new key and doesn't require replacement or reprogramming of electronics.