How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're rushing to get your work done and jam your keys into the ignition. You try to turn the key, but it snaps in the lock.
There are a few things you can do to fix the problem before contacting an experienced locksmith. Here are some quick solutions. Super Glue.
1. Contact an expert locksmith
One of the most devastating things that can happen to a car owner is a broken key inside locks. This can be particularly frustrating if the driver is in a rush to get somewhere, or to drop off a kid. In this situation, it is important to act quickly and attempt to free the stuck key.
It is recommended to call an experienced locksmith for this job as they will be able to use the appropriate tools to remove the broken key and not damage the lock. A lot of people look around the vehicle to find something light and sturdy such as a paperclip or toothpick, but these typically won't work since it's too thick to be able to get into the lock.
A much better solution is to search for a pair of tweezers, because they are thin and easily reach the key hole within the lock. They should be able to grasp the damaged part of a key and pull it out. If you don't have tweezers, then it may be worth searching for key extractors that are often available in auto parts stores. These are flat, narrow and have tiny hooks. They can be put into the keyhole and then grab the broken part of the key.
Another option is to find the magnetic key hook that is able to attach to the metal in the lock and pull it out. This is not always a good option, as it can sometimes get caught under the lock and cause further damage to the lock. In this case it is recommended to contact an experienced locksmith.
Some people will try to join the two pieces of their snapped car key together using superglue, thinking that this can help them to remove it from the lock. This is a risk since the metal pieces could get caught and break later. It is also crucial not to turn the key, as this can cause further damage to the lock or ignition cylinder. Contact a professional locksmith to replace the broken key right away.
2. Drill a hole
Even having a spare key you may not be able to access your vehicle if a key is broken inside the lock. In these instances drilling out the lock is the best option.
It is important to make sure that the keyhole is set for a basic tumbler key. If it's not, you won't have the ability to remove the pins and cause damage to the door or internal lock mechanism.
Next, it is important to know that you will be drilling through the outer plastic layer and an inner layer of metal. You can drill through these layers with a small drill bit, however, you should not go deeper. Drilling too deep can damage the internal wiring harness or cause the drill to snag.
It is also recommended to wear a mask and protective gear while working with a drill. This will prevent dust and dirt from entering your respiratory system.
Finally, it is an excellent idea to keep two pairs of pliers and tweezers in your possession in the event that the broken piece of the key is sticking out of the lock. If the key is extending enough to be held by pliers and tweezers, this will suffice to get it out. If not, you'll have to use an instrument such as this to wedge it in the lock, and then rotate it towards the key to grab and remove it.
3. Drill a Nail
If you cut your car key in half, it could leave you in a bind. There are a few ways to fix it without having to pay for locksmith. The first method is to utilize a screw or nail. You can find these at home or at the hardware store. But, it is best to look for nails that are as thin and as long as you can. So you can 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 slot cut in the key. This will keep it from moving, and could even prevent it from breaking again in the future.
4. Super Glue
Many motorists make use of DIY hacks like using super glue to attempt to fix a damaged car key, but this is a risky thing to do. You could cause damage to the lock, and have to pay more money for a replacement.
You need to check the keys that are broken first, and ensure that they are the same size. This is crucial to ensure that all pieces that have been glued are aligned correctly and that the key fits inside the lock once they have been put in place. Then, using a piece of fine-grit paper or a metal filing, smooth out the edges of the broken pieces. This will improve the glue's bond and decrease the likelihood of a future loose key.
After finishing the edges after polishing, apply a small amount (about the size of a pea) of super glue to one side. Use only the smallest amount of super glue as too much can make the key too thick. key repair shop near me will then be difficult to fit into the lock. After lining up the two pieces of the key that broke then press them together. After a few minutes, the glue will begin to set and bond to the key pieces.
A bobby-pin or paperclip can also be used as a tool to remove a damaged key from the lock. They can be cut like a pick and then inserted into the lock. This method is particularly helpful if the break is near or within the keyway or lock hole.
Another important point to keep in mind is that if the broken car key is equipped with electronic components, it will require an entirely new key from the dealership or a professional locksmith. This is because the key needs to be programmed using a new code and the chip will need to be replaced. If the metal or shell of the key fails and needs to be replaced, you'll need to get a new cut. You won't need to reprogramme or replace the electronic components.