How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're in a hurry to get your work done and jam your keys into the ignition. Then you try to turn it, and it snaps off from the lock!
Luckily, there are several ways you can try to resolve the issue before calling a locksmith. Here are on the main page : 1. Super Glue.
1. Call a locksmith
A damaged key in the lock is one of the most unpleasant things a vehicle owner could face. This can be even more difficult if it happens while the driver is rushing to get somewhere or to drop off the child. In this case it is crucial to act swiftly and try to release the stuck key.
Calling an experienced locksmith is the best choice, as they will have the right tools and know how to remove the keys that are broken without damaging the lock. Many people will look for something small and stiff such as paperclips or toothpicks. However it is not the best solution as they are too heavy to fit into the lock.
The best solution is to look for a pair of tweezers, because they are thin and can easily get into the key hole inside the lock. They should be strong enough to grab the broken part of a key and pull it out. If you don't have tweezers, it could be worth looking for a set available at auto parts stores. They are narrow and flat with hooks that are small enough to be placed into the key hole, and then hold onto the broken bit of the key.
Another option is to locate a magnetic key hook that is able to stick to the metal inside the lock and pull it out. This is not always the best option since it could be caught under the lock and cause further damage. In this case, it's best to call a professional locksmith.
Some people try to glue together the two pieces of a broken car key using superglue in order to remove it from the lock. This could be risky as the metal pieces may tangle and break later. It is also essential not to turn the key because this could cause damage to the lock or ignition cylinder. It is recommended to contact a professional locksmith who will be ready to remove the broken key and make an immediate replacement.
2. Drill a Hole
Sometimes, a key gets damaged inside the lock, and even if you have a spare, you might not be in a position to gain access to your vehicle. A drill may be the best option in these instances.
First, you must make sure the keyhole is set up for a basic tumbler. If it isn't then you won't be able to drill the pins without damaging the door, and possibly destroying the internal lock mechanism.
The next step is to understand that you'll be drilling through the outer layer of plastic and the inner metal layer. You can drill through these layers using a the smallest drill bit however, you should not go deeper. If you drill to deep it could harm the wiring harness inside or cause the drill bit to stick in the hole.
Wearing a mask or other protective gear is also recommended when using a drill. This will prevent dirt and dust from entering your respiratory system.
It is also an excellent idea to keep two pairs of pliers and tweezers on hand in case the broken piece of the key is sticking out of the lock. If the key is extending enough to be held by pliers and tweezers, this is enough to pull it out. If not you'll require tools like this one to insert the tool into the lock and then turn it towards the key to grip and remove it from the hole.
3. Drill a nail
You could be left without a home when you cut your key in half. There are some ways to fix it, without having to pay for locksmith. The first thing you can do is to use a screw or nail. They can be found in your home or in a hardware store. But, it is best to look for a nail that is as thin and as long as you can. You can then insert it into the hole, and then use epoxy glue to join the two pieces together. Make sure that the nail's back is flat. This will allow it to fit into the slot cut in the key. This will keep it from moving and potentially breaking again in future.
4. Super Glue
Many auto owners resort to DIY hacks, such as using super glue to repair a damaged key. This is a risky practice. You could cause damage to the lock, and then have to shell out more money for a replacement.
The first step is to take a look at the broken keys and make sure they are in terms of size. This step is essential to ensure that all pieces that have been glued are aligned correctly and that the key will fit into the lock after they have been put in place. 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 decrease the chance of a key falling loose in the future.
After finishing the edges, apply a small amount (about a pea-sized amount) of super glue to the other side. Only apply tiny amounts of super glue, since excessive amounts can make the key too heavy. It will then be difficult to fit into the lock. After lining up the two pieces of the broken key and pressing them together, you can press them. After some time the glue will begin to set and bind the key pieces together.
Another 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 device and inserted in the lock. This method is especially useful in the event that the broken part is inside or near the keyway or ignition hole.
Another important point to keep in mind is that if the broken car key has electronic components, it will require a new key cut by the dealership or a professional locksmith. This is because the key will need to be programmed with a new code and the chip will need to be replaced. If, however, only the shell or metal portion of the key breaks the key, it will usually only require the cutting of a new key and doesn't require reprogramming or replacing of the electronic components.