How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're heading to work, in rush, and put your keys in the ignition. Then you try to turn it, and it snaps off in the lock!
Luckily, there are several ways you can attempt to fix it before calling a locksmith. Here are a few easy solutions: 1. Super Glue.
1. Call for a locksmith
One of the worst things that could happen to the owner of a car is a broken key in the lock. This can be even more painful if it occurs when the driver is hurrying to get to work or to drop off the child. In this situation it is imperative to act fast to try and remove the stuck key.
Contacting a professional locksmith is the best option because they'll have the proper tools and know how to get rid of the keys that are broken without damaging the lock. Many people will look for something thin and stiff, such as toothpicks or paperclips. But this isn't the best choice since they are too heavy to fit into the lock.
The best solution is to use a pair tweezers. They are small and are able to easily get inside the lock. They should be rigid enough to grasp the damaged part of a key and pull it out. If you don't own tweezers it might be worth looking for keys extractors, which are usually sold in auto parts stores. They are narrow, flat and have tiny hooks. They can be put in the keyhole and grab the broken part of the key.
A magnetic key hook can be used to stick to the metal inside the lock, and then remove it. This is not always the best option, as it can sometimes be caught in the lock and cause further damage to it. In this case, it's best to call an experienced locksmith.
Some people attempt to stick the two pieces of their car key that have snapped together with superglue, as it will help them remove it from the lock. However, this could be extremely risky because the pieces of metal could snag on to one another and fall apart later. It is also important not to turn the key, because this could cause damage to the lock or ignition cylinder. Call a professional locksmith to repair the damaged key on the spot.
2. Drill into a hole
Even with a spare key you may not be able access your vehicle if a key is broken inside the lock. The lock could be drilled out. be the best option in these instances.
It is important to make sure that the keyhole is set up for a basic tumbler key. If it's not, you won't be able to drill out the pins without damaging the door, and possibly damaging the lock mechanism.
It is also important to understand that you'll be drilling through the outer layer of plastic and the inner metal layer. You can drill through these layers with the smallest drill bit but you should not go deeper. If you drill to deep, it could cause damage to the wiring harness or cause the drill bit to get stuck within the hole.
It is also recommended to wear a mask and protective equipment when working using drilling. This will prevent dust and dirt from getting into your lungs.
It is also a good idea if the broken key piece is still sticking out of the lock, to keep two pairs of pliers and tweezers in your bag. If the key is protruding enough to be able to be grasped with tweezers and pliers, then it will be enough to get it out. If not, you'll need to use a tool like this to wedge it into the lock and then turn it toward the key to grasp it and remove it.
3. Drill a Nail
If you break your car key in half, it could leave you stranded. There are fortunately some methods 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 best to choose the nail that is as thin and long as possible. This means you can put it into the hole, and then use epoxy glue to join the two pieces. g28carkeys.co.uk is also good to ensure that the nail's back is flat. This will allow it to fit into the slot cut in the key. This will stop it from moving and possibly breaking again in the future.
4. Super Glue
Many motorists use DIY techniques, such as using super glue to repair a damaged key. This is a risky method. You could end up damaging the lock, and then have to shell out more to replace it.
First, examine the keys that are broken and ensure that they are in terms of size. This step is crucial to ensure that the glued pieces 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 the edges of the broken pieces of the key. This will strengthen the glue's bond and decrease the possibility of a key that is loose.
After you've polished the edges of the damaged key then apply a small amount super glue to one of the ends. Only apply tiny amounts of super glue as excessive amounts can make the key too thick. It will then be difficult to fit into the lock. After that, carefully align the two pieces of the key and press them together. After a short time the glue will begin to set and bind to the key pieces.
Another common household item that can be used to help to remove a damaged car key is a bobby or paperclip pin, which can be shaped into a pick-like tool and inserted in the lock. This method is particularly helpful in the event that the broken part is close or inside the keyway or lock hole.
Another thing to remember is that if the broken car key is equipped with electronic components that require a new key cut from the dealer or an experienced locksmith. The key will need to be reprogrammed using a different code and the chip in the key needs to be changed. If, however, only the metal or shell of the key is damaged it typically requires an entirely new key cut, and doesn't require reprogramming or replacing of the electronic components.