How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're in a hurry to get your work done and you put your keys into the ignition. Then you try to turn it into a lock, and it snaps in the lock!
There are a few things you can try to fix the issue before calling an experienced locksmith. Here are a few quick fixes:: 1. Super Glue.
1. Call a Locksmith
One of the worst things that can happen to the owner of a car is a broken key inside a lock. This situation is even more difficult if it happens while the driver is rushing to get somewhere or to drop off an infant. In this situation you must act swiftly to attempt to free the stuck key.
Calling an experienced locksmith is the best option, as they'll have the proper tools and know how to get rid of the broken keys without damaging the lock. A lot of people look around in their vehicle for something thin and rigid 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 solution is to use a pair of tweezers. They are thin and easily fit into the lock. They should also be strong enough to hold the damaged part of the key and remove it. If you don't own tweezers, it might be worth looking for a set sold at auto parts stores. They are thin and flat with small hooks that can be put into the key hole and grip onto the damaged part of the key.
A magnetic key hook can be used to stick to the metal inside the lock and then pull it out. This is not always the best option since it could get caught in the lock and cause further damage. In this instance it is recommended to contact an experienced locksmith.
Some people attempt to stick the two pieces of their car key that have snapped together with superglue, as this can help them to take it out of the lock. This could be risky as the metal pieces could snag and break later. It is essential not to turn the key as this could cause further damage to your lock or ignition cylinder. Get a locksmith professional to replace the broken key right away.
2. Drill a hole
Sometimes, a key gets damaged inside the lock, and even with an extra key, you may not be capable of opening the door to your vehicle. A drill may be the best solution in these situations.
You will first want to make sure the keyhole is positioned for a basic tumbler. If it's not it, you will not be able to drill the pins without damaging the door, and possibly damaging the lock mechanism.
It is important to keep in mind that you'll drill through the outer layer of plastic as well as an inner metal layer. A small drill bit is sufficient to cut through these layers, but it is important to be sure not to go any deeper than that. In the event of drilling too deep, it could cause damage to the wiring harness, or cause the drill to become stuck.
Wearing a protective mask or gear is also advised when using a drill. This will stop dust and dirt from getting into your respiratory system.
It's an excellent idea, if the broken key piece remains stuck in the lock, to have pliers and tweezers handy. If there is enough of the key sticking out to grip with tweezers or pliers, this should suffice to pull it out of the lock. If not, you'll have to use a tool such as this to wedge it in the lock, and then turn it towards the key to grab it and take it out.
3. Drill a nail
You could be left without a home in the event that you break your key in half. There are fortunately a few methods to fix it without having to pay for locksmith. The first step is use screws or nails. You can find these in your house or at the hardware store. However, it is best to look for a nail that is as thin and long as possible. This way, you can place it in the hole and then use epoxy to join the two parts together. 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 future.
4. Super Glue
Many car owners resort to DIY techniques, such as using super glue to fix a broken key. This is a dangerous method. You could end up ruining the lock and needing to spend more money on finding a replacement at the dealership or a locksmith.
It is important to examine the keys that are broken first and make sure they're the same size. This step is crucial to ensure that the glued parts will be aligned properly and that the key fits into the lock once they are bonded together. Then, use a piece of fine-grit sandpaper or a metal file to smooth out the edges on the broken pieces of the key. This will help make the glue bond better and decrease the chance of a key falling loose in the future.
After you've polished the edges of the damaged key then apply a small amount of super glue to one of the ends. Only apply 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. After aligning the two pieces of the broken key and pressing them together, you can press them. After similar webpage , the glue will start to set and bond the key fragments together.
A bobby-pin or a paperclip can also be used as a tool to remove a broken key from the lock. They can be cut like a pick and inserted into the lock. This technique is particularly useful if the break is inside or close to the keyway or ignition hole.
A car key that is damaged and has electronic components will require a new key from the dealer or a professional locksmith. The key will have to be reprogrammed using a different code and the chip inside the key will need to be replaced. If only the shell or metal part of the key fails it will be necessary to replace the cut. You don't have to reprogramme or replace electronics.