How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're headed to work in rush, and put your car keys into the ignition. You try to turn it, and it snaps off in the lock!
Luckily, there are a few ways you can attempt to fix it before calling a locksmith. Here are a few quick fixes. Super Glue.
1. Contact a locksmith
One of the worst things that can happen to a car owner is a damaged key in the lock. This can be even more frustrating if it occurs while the driver is rushing to get to work or to drop off an infant. In this case, it is important to act quickly and attempt to release the stuck key.
Calling an experienced locksmith is the best option, because they'll have the proper tools and know how to get rid of the keys broken without damaging the lock. Many people look around their car for something small and rigid like a paperclip, or toothpick, but this typically won't work since it is too thick to enter the lock.
The best solution is to use a pair of tweezers. They are lightweight and easily fit into the lock. They should also be rigid enough to grasp the broken part of the key and then pull it out. If you don't have tweezers it might be worth looking for key extractors, which are usually sold in auto parts stores. They are thin, flat and have hooks that are small. They can be put in the keyhole and grasp the broken piece of the key.
A magnetic key hook can be used to adhere to the metal of the lock, and then pull it out. This is not always the best choice as it can get caught under a lock and cause more damage. In this instance it is best to contact an experienced locksmith.
Some people try to glue together the two pieces of a broken car key using superglue in order to get it out of the lock. However, repair car key remote can be extremely risky because the pieces of metal may cling to one another and break apart again later on. It is essential not to turn the key as this could cause further damage to your lock or ignition cylinder. It is best to contact a professional locksmith who will be able to take out the broken key and create a replacement 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. In these situations drilling out the lock is the best choice.
It is important to ensure that the keyhole is positioned 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.
Next, it is important to understand that you'll be drilling through the outer plastic layer and the inner metal layer. A small drill bit is enough to get through these layers, but you need to ensure that you don't go further than this. If you drill too deeply, it can damage the internal wiring harness or cause the drill to snag.
Wearing a protective mask or equipment is also advised when using a drill. This will keep the dust and dirt from entering your lungs.
It's an excellent idea, when the broken piece of key remains stuck in the lock, to keep two pairs of pliers and tweezers handy. If there is enough of the key protruding to grip with tweezers or pliers, this could be sufficient to get it out of the lock. If not, you'll have to use a tool such as this to wedge it into the lock and then turn it towards the key to grasp it and take it out.
3. Drill a nail
If you smash your car key in half, it can cause you to be stranded. There are a variety of ways to solve the issue without the expense of an locksmith. The first thing you can do is to use a screw or nail. These can be found in your home or in a hardware store. It is recommended to pick nails that are 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 together. It is also good to make sure the back of the nail is level. This will allow it to fit in the cut slot of the key. This will prevent it from moving and potentially breaking again in future.
4. Super Glue
Many car owners resort to DIY hacks, such as using super glue to fix a broken key. This is a dangerous method. You could end up damaging the lock and having to shell out more money for finding a replacement at the dealer or a locksmith.
First, take a look at the broken keys and ensure that they are identical in terms of size. This step is crucial to ensure that the pieces are properly aligned and that the key fits into the lock once they are bonded together. Then, using a piece of fine-grit paper or a metal filing, smooth the edges of the damaged pieces. This will strengthen the bond of glue and decrease the possibility of a key that is loose.
After you have polished the edges of the damaged key then apply a small amount super glue to one of the ends. Be cautious not to apply too much, as this could cause the key to become too heavy and will have difficulty fitting into the lock. After aligning car remote key repair of the broken key, press them together. After a short time, the glue will begin to set and bond together the key fragments.
A bobby-pin or paperclip can also be used to extract a broken key from a lock. They can be shaped like a pick and inserted into the lock. This technique is particularly useful when the damage is located 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. This is because the key will have to be programmed with a brand new code and the chip must be replaced. However, if the metal or shell of the key breaks, it usually just requires the cutting of a new key and doesn't require replacement or reprogramming of the electronic components.