How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're rushing to get to work, and put your keys in the ignition. You try to turn the key, but it snaps in the lock.
There are car keys repair can do to solve the issue before calling a professional locksmith. Here are some quick fixes. Super Glue.
1. Call a locksmith
A broken key in the lock is among the most frustrating things a car owner could face. This can be even more painful if it occurs when the driver is trying to get somewhere or to drop off an infant. In such a situation it is essential to act quickly and try to release the stuck key.
It is recommended to contact an experienced locksmith for this job as they will be able to use the right tools to remove the broken key and not damage the lock. Many people are looking for something small and stiff like a toothpick or paperclip. However, this is not the best solution as they are too large to fit inside the lock.
The best option is to use a pair tweezers. They are thin and are able to easily get inside 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's worth looking for a set sold at auto parts stores. They are narrow, flat and have tiny hooks. They can be inserted into the keyhole and then take the broken portion of the key.
A magnetic key hook can be used to adhere to the metal of the lock, and then pull it out. This isn't always a good option, as it can sometimes become stuck under the lock and cause further damage to it. In such a situation, it is best to call locksmith.
Some people try to glue the two pieces of their broken car key with superglue as it will help them get it out of the lock. However, this is extremely risky because the pieces of metal may cling to one another and break apart later. It is also essential not to turn the key as this can cause further damage to the lock or the ignition cylinder. It is best to contact a professional locksmith who will be able to take out the damaged key and then make an immediate replacement.
2. Drill through a hole
Sometimes, a key gets damaged inside the lock, and even with an extra key, you may not be in a position to gain access to your vehicle. Drilling out the lock may be the best option in these instances.
First, you must make sure that the keyhole is set for a basic tumbler key. If it's not then you won't have the ability to drill out the pins and cause damage to the lock's door or internal mechanism.
Next, it is important to know that you will be drilling through the outer layer of plastic and an inner metal layer. A small drill bit is enough to penetrate these layers, but you need to be sure not to go any deeper than this. In the event of drilling too deep, it could cause damage to the wiring harness, or cause the drill to stick.
Wearing a protective mask or equipment is recommended when using a drill. This will stop dust and dirt from getting into your lung.
Finally, it is a good idea to have a pair of pliers and tweezers on hand in case the broken piece of the key is sticking out of the lock. If the key is protruding enough to be held by pliers and tweezers, this will suffice to get it out. If not you'll require tools like this one to insert the tool inside the lock, and then turn it towards the key to grasp it and take it out of the hole.
3. Drill a nail
If you cut your car key in half, it could cause you to be trapped. There are several methods to fix it, without having to pay for a locksmith. The first step is to use a screw or nail. They are available at home or in a hardware store. It is recommended to search for the nail that is as thin as it can be and as long as is possible. So you can insert it into the hole, and then apply epoxy glue to join the two pieces. Make sure that the back of the nails is flat. This will allow it to fit into the slot in the key. This will stop it from moving and breaking in the future.
4. Super Glue
Many motorists resort to DIY hacks like using super glue repair a broken car key, but this is not a safe option to make. You could end up ruining the lock and have to pay more for finding a replacement at the dealer or locksmith.
First, you need to examine the broken keys and make sure that they match each other 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've been joined. Then, using a piece fine-grit paper or a metal filing, smooth out the edges of the damaged pieces. This will strengthen the glue's bond and decrease the possibility of a key that is loose.
After polishing the edges After polishing the edges, apply a small amount (about the size of a pea) of super glue to one side. Only apply the smallest amount of super glue, as excessive amounts can make the key too large. It will then be difficult to fit into the lock. After aligning the two pieces of the key that broke, press them together. After a few seconds, the glue will start to set and bond the key fragments together.
Another common household item that can be used to help extract a broken car key is a bobby or paperclip pin that can be made into a pick-like tool, then put into the lock. This method is especially useful when the damage is located inside or close to the keyway or ignition hole.
A car key that has been damaged with electronic components will need a new key from the locksmith or dealer. The key will have to be reprogrammed with a different code and the chip inside the key needs to be replaced. In contrast, if only the shell or metal portion of the key breaks the key, it will usually only require an entirely new key cut, and doesn't require any replacement or reprogramming of the electronic components.