How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're in a hurry to get to work, and jam your keys into the ignition. You try to turn it into a lock, and it snaps inside the lock!
There are some things you can try to fix the issue before calling an experienced locksmith. Here are a few quick solutions. Super Glue.
1. Call an expert locksmith
A broken key in the lock is one of the most unpleasant things a vehicle owner could face. This situation is even more frustrating if it occurs while the driver is hurrying to get to work or to drop off the child. In remote car key repair is essential to act swiftly and try to get the key out of the way.
Calling an experienced locksmith is the best option, as they'll have the right tools and know how to remove the broken keys without damaging the lock. Many people will have a look around their car for something small and rigid such as a paperclip or toothpick, but this usually won't work as it's too thick to fit into the lock.
The best solution is to use a pair tweezers. They are small and are able to easily get into the lock. They should also be sturdy enough to hold the damaged part of the key and pull it out. If you don't own tweezers then you might consider looking for keys extractors which are typically found in auto parts stores. They are thin, flat and have small hooks. They can be inserted in the keyhole and grab the broken part of the key.
Another possible solution is to locate an magnetic key hook that can be affixed to the metal inside the lock and be pulled out. This isn't always the best option as it can get caught under the lock and cause damage. In such a scenario it is recommended to contact a locksmith.
Some people attempt to join two pieces of a broken car key with superglue in order to get it out of the lock. However, this is extremely risky because the pieces of metal may cling to one another and fall apart later. It is important to not turn the key because it could cause further damage to the lock or ignition cylinder. Get a locksmith professional to repair the damaged key on the spot.
2. Drill a Hole
Sometimes a key breaks inside the lock, and even if you have a spare, you might not be capable of opening the door to your vehicle. Drilling out the lock may be the best option in these situations.
First, you must make sure that the keyhole is set 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.
Next, it is important to understand that you will be drilling through the outer plastic layer and the inner metal layer. A small drill bit is sufficient to get through these layers, but you need to be sure not to go further than this. If you drill too deeply, it can damage the internal wiring harness or cause the drill to snag.
It is also recommended to wear a mask and protective gear when working with drilling. This will stop dust and dirt from getting into your respiratory system.
It is an excellent idea, in the event that the key fragment is broken and remains stuck in the lock, to keep pliers and tweezers handy. If the key is long enough to be gripped with pliers and tweezers, it will be enough to get it out. If not, you'll need to use an instrument such as this to encase it into the lock and then turn it toward 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. Luckily, there are a few methods to fix it without having to pay for a locksmith. The first option is to use a nail or screw. They can be found in your home or in a hardware store. It is recommended to pick nails that are as thin and as long as you can. This will allow you to fit it into the hole, and then use epoxy to join the two pieces together. Make sure that the back of the nails are flat. This will make it easier to fit in the cut slot of the key. This will prevent it from moving and breaking in the future.
4. Super Glue
Many motorists opt for DIY techniques, such as using super glue to repair a damaged or broken key. This is a dangerous practice. You could end up damaging the lock, and then have to shell out more for a replacement.
First, you need to take a look at the broken keys and make sure that they are identical in terms of size. This step is essential to ensure that all the pieces that have been glued are aligned correctly and that the key fits into the lock after they've been joined. Then, using a piece fine-grit paper or a metal filing, smooth out the edges of the broken pieces. This will help make the glue bond better and lessen the risk of a loose key in the future.
After polishing the edges After polishing the edges, apply the smallest amount (about a pea-sized amount) of super glue on the other side. Be careful not to apply too much, as this can cause the key to become too heavy and may 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 a few moments, the glue will begin to set and bind together the key fragments.
Another household item that can be used to help extract a broken car key is a paperclip or bobby pin which can be cut into a pick-like device and placed inside the lock. This technique is especially helpful in the event that the broken part is close or within the keyway or lock hole.
A car key that is damaged and has electronic components will require an entirely new key from the dealer or a professional locksmith. This is because the key needs to be programmed using a new code and the key chip needs to be replaced. In contrast, if only the shell or metal portion of the key is damaged, it usually just requires a new key cut and doesn't require any replacement or reprogramming of electronics.