How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're in a rush to get your work done and jam your keys into the ignition. Then you try turning it into a lock, and it snaps in the lock!
There are some things you can try to fix the issue before contacting an experienced locksmith. Here are a few easy solutions: 1. Super Glue.
1. Contact a locksmith
A damaged key in the lock is among the worst things a car owner can experience. This is especially frustrating if the driver is in a hurry to get somewhere, or drop off an infant. In this situation it is crucial to act quickly and attempt to free the stuck key.
It is best to call an experienced locksmith for this job as they can use the appropriate tools to remove the broken key and not damage the lock. A lot of people look around the vehicle for something thin and rigid like a paperclip, or toothpick, however this usually won't work as it is too thick to fit into the lock.
The best option is to use a pair of 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 could be worth looking for a set available at auto parts stores. These are flat and narrow with hooks that are small enough to be inserted into the key hole and then grip on the broken piece of the key.
A magnetic key hook can be used to adhere to the metal inside the lock and then pull it out. This isn't always a good option because it could get caught under the lock and cause further damage to the lock. In this situation it is best to contact an experienced locksmith.
Some people attempt to join the two pieces of their car key that have snapped with superglue as it will help them take it out of the lock. However, this is extremely risky since the pieces of metal could stick to each other and then break apart later. It is also important not to turn the key because this could cause damage to the lock or the ignition cylinder. Get a locksmith professional to replace the broken key on the spot.
2. Drill a hole
Sometimes, a key gets damaged inside the lock, and even if you have an extra key, you may not be able to gain access to your vehicle. Drilling out the lock may be the best solution in these situations.
The first step is to make sure that the key hole is designed to accept a basic tumbler car key. If it isn't it, you will not be able to remove the pins without damaging the door, and possibly destroying the internal lock mechanism.
Next, it is important to know 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 but you should not go any further. If you drill too deeply, it can damage the internal wiring harness, or cause the drill to snag.
Wearing a mask or other protective gear is also recommended when using a drill. This will stop dust and dirt from getting into your lungs.
It is an excellent idea, when the broken piece of key is sticking out of the lock, to keep two pairs of pliers and tweezers in your bag. If the key is protruding enough to be gripped with tweezers and pliers, then this will suffice to get it out. 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 it and pull it out.
3. Drill a nail
If you break your car key in half, it could leave you in a bind. There are several ways to fix it without having to pay for locksmith. The first step is use the screw or nail. These are available at your home or at a hardware store. It is recommended to look for a nail that is as thin as it can be and as long as is possible. You can then insert it into the hole, and then use epoxy glue to join the two pieces together. Make sure that the back of the nails is flat. This will allow it to fit into the cut slot of the key. This will prevent it from moving around and possibly breaking again in the future.
4. Super Glue
Many motorists resort to DIY techniques, such as using super glue to repair a damaged or broken key. This is a dangerous practice. You could end up ruining the lock and have to pay more for replacing it from the dealership or a locksmith.
First, take a look at the keys that have been damaged and make sure they are in terms of size. This is vital to ensure that the glued parts will be aligned properly and the key will fit into the lock once they have been bonded. Then, using a piece of fine-grit paper or a metal filing, smooth out the edges of the damaged pieces. This will make the glue bond better and decrease the chance of a loose key in the future.
After polishing the edges After polishing the edges, apply only a small amount (about an amount of pea-sized) of super glue to the other side. Use only the smallest amount of super glue, since too much could make the key too large. It will then be difficult to fit into the lock. Then, 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 the key fragments.
A bobby-pin or paperclip can also be used as a tool to remove a damaged key from an lock. www.g28carkeys.co.uk/car-key-repairs-near-me/ can be shaped as a pick, and then inserted into the lock. This technique is particularly helpful if the break is in or close to the keyway or ignition hole.
A broken car key with electronic components will require a new key from a dealer or a professional locksmith. The key will need to be reprogrammed using a new code and the chip in the key needs to be replaced. If, however, only the shell or metal portion of the key fails, it usually just requires a new key cut and doesn't require replacement or reprogramming of electronic components.