How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're headed to work in a hurry, and jam your keys in the ignition. You try to turn the key but it is unable to get into the lock.
There are a few things you could try to fix the issue before contacting an expert locksmith. Here are a few easy fixes:1. Super Glue.
1. Contact a locksmith
A broken key in the lock is one of the most unpleasant things a vehicle owner could face. This situation is even more difficult if it happens while the driver is trying to get somewhere or to drop off the child. In this case it is essential to act quickly and attempt to free the stuck key.
A locksmith with experience is the best option, as they will have the right tools and know how to get rid of the keys that are broken without damaging the lock. Many people will have a look around in their vehicle to find something light and sturdy like a paperclip or toothpick, but this usually won't work as it's too thick to be able to get into the lock.
The best way to do this is to use a pair tweezers. They are small and can easily reach inside the lock. They should also be sturdy enough to grasp the broken part of the key and then pull it out. If you don't own tweezers, it might be worth searching for a set that is available at auto parts stores. They are thin and flat with hooks that are small enough to be inserted into the key hole and grip on the broken piece of the key.
Another possible solution is to find the magnetic key hook that can attach to the metal in the lock and pull it out. This isn't always the best option since it could be caught under a lock and cause more damage. In this case it is recommended to call locksmith.
Some people attempt to join the two pieces of a damaged car key using superglue order to take it out of the lock. This is a risk since the metal pieces could get caught and break later. It is also essential not to turn the key because this could cause damage to the lock or the ignition cylinder. Call how to repair car key fob to replace the broken key on the spot.
2. Drill a hole
Even having a spare key you might not be able to access your vehicle if a key is broken inside the lock. Drilling out the lock may be the best solution in these situations.
The first step is to ensure that the key hole is designed to accept a standard tumbler car key. If it's not then 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'll be drilling through the outer layer of plastic as well as an inner metal layer. A small drill bit will suffice to cut through these layers, but you must be sure to not go any deeper than this. In the event of drilling too deep, it could damage the internal wiring harness or cause the drill to snag.
Wearing a mask or protective equipment is recommended when working with a drill. This will prevent dust and dirt from entering your lung.
It is also a good idea, if the broken key piece is still sticking out of the lock, to have a pair pliers and tweezers handy. If the key is long enough to be able to be grasped with pliers and tweezers, this is enough to pull it out. If there isn't, however you'll need to use a tool such as this one to insert the tool into the lock and then turn it towards the key in order to grip it and take it out of the hole.
3. Drill a nail
If you cut your car key in half, it could leave you in a bind. There are a variety of ways to solve the issue without having to hire a locksmith. The first thing you can do is use the screw or nail. These can be found in your home or in a hardware store. It is best to choose a nail as thin and as long as you can. You can then 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 could even prevent it from breaking again in the future.
4. Super Glue
A lot of car owners tend to use DIY tricks like using super glue to try and fix a broken car key, however this is not a safe way to go. You could damage the lock and be forced to shell out more to replace it.
You need to check the broken keys first to ensure they are the same size. This is essential to ensure that the glued parts are properly aligned and that the key fits into the lock once they are bonded together. Then, using a piece fine-grit paper or a metal filing, smooth the edges of the damaged pieces. This will make the glue stick better and decrease the chance of a loose key in the future.
After polishing the edges, apply the smallest amount (about the size of a pea) of super glue to the other side. Use only the smallest amount of super glue, since excessive amounts can make the key too thick. It will then be difficult to fit into the lock. After lining up the two pieces of the broken key then press them together. After a few moments, the glue will begin to set and bond together the key fragments.
A paperclip or bobby-pin can also be used to extract a broken key from the lock. They can be shaped like a pick and then inserted into the lock. This technique is particularly helpful in the event that the broken part is inside or near the keyway or ignition hole.
A broken car key with electronic components will require a new key from a locksmith or dealer. This is because the key needs to be programmed with a brand new code and the chip will need to be replaced. If only the metal or shell of the key is damaged and needs to be replaced, you'll need to replace the cut. You don't have to reprogramme or replace the electronics.