How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're on your way to work in rush, and put your keys in the ignition. You try to turn the key, but it snaps in the lock.
There are a few things you can try to fix the issue before contacting an experienced locksmith. Here are some quick solutions: 1. Super Glue.
1. Call a Locksmith
A broken key in the lock is one of the most frustrating things a car owner could experience. This can be even more difficult if it happens while the driver is hurrying to get to work or to drop off the child. In this situation you must act swiftly to try to get the key out of the way.
Calling an experienced locksmith is the best option as they'll have the proper tools and know how to take out the keys broken without damaging the lock. A lot of people look around the vehicle to find something light and sturdy such as a paperclip or toothpick, however this isn't likely to work as it is too thick to enter the lock.
The best solution is to use a pair tweezers. They are lightweight and can easily reach into the lock. They should be strong enough to grab the broken part of a key and pull it out. If you don't have tweezers, then you might consider trying to locate a set of key extractors that are often sold in auto parts stores. These are flat and narrow with hooks that are small enough to be put into the key hole, and then hold onto the damaged part of the key.
Another possible solution is to locate the magnetic key hook that is able to stick to the metal inside the lock and pull it out. mobile key repair is not always the best option since it is possible for it to be caught in the lock and cause further damage to the lock. In this instance it is recommended to contact an experienced locksmith.
Some people attempt to glue the two pieces of their car key that have snapped together with superglue, as this can help them to remove it from the lock. However, this could be extremely risky since the pieces of metal could stick to one another and fall apart later. It is crucial not to turn the key because it could cause further damage to the lock or ignition cylinder. Contact a professional locksmith to replace the broken key on the spot.
2. Drill into a hole
Sometimes a key breaks inside the lock, and even with an extra key, you may not be in a position to gain access to your vehicle. A drill may be the best option in these instances.
You will first want to make sure the keyhole is set up for a basic tumbler. If it's not then you won't be able to remove the pins without damaging the door, and potentially destroying the lock mechanism.
It is crucial to remember that you'll be drilling through an outer plastic layer as well as an inner layer of metal. A small drill bit is enough to get through these layers, but it is important to be sure to not go further than this. In the event of drilling too deep, it could cause damage to the wiring harness, or cause the drill to become stuck.
It is also recommended to wear a face mask and protective gear when working using drills. This will keep dust and dirt from getting into your lung.
Finally, it is an excellent idea to keep two pairs of pliers and tweezers available in case the broken piece of the key is sticking out of the lock. If there is enough of the key protruding to be able to grasp with tweezers or pliers, this should be sufficient to get it out of the lock. If not, you'll need to use a tool such as this to wedge it into the lock and then rotate it towards the key to grab it and remove it.
3. Drill a nail
If you cut your car key in half, it could leave you stranded. There are several ways to solve the issue without having to hire an locksmith. The first thing you can do is use a screw or nail. You can find these at home or at a hardware store. It is recommended to search for a nail that is as thin as it can be and as long as is possible. This way, you can place it into the hole, and then use epoxy to link the two parts together. Make sure that the nail's back is flat. This will help it to fit in the cut slot of the key. This will stop it from moving and possibly breaking again in the future.
4. Super Glue
Many motorists resort to DIY techniques like using super glue attempt to fix a damaged car key, however this is a dangerous thing to do. You could damage the lock, and then have to pay more money to replace it.
It is important to examine the keys that have been damaged first, and ensure that they are the same size. This step is crucial to ensure that the glued parts will be properly aligned and the key will fit into the lock after they have been bonded. Then, using a piece fine-grit paper or a metal filing, smooth the edges of the broken pieces. This will help the glue bond better and lessen the risk of a key falling loose in the future.
After you have polished the edges of the broken key then apply a small amount of super glue to one of the ends. Only apply tiny amounts of super glue as too much can make the key too heavy. It will then be difficult to fit into the lock. After lining up the two pieces of the broken key, press them together. After a few seconds the glue will begin to set and join the key pieces together.
A paperclip or bobby-pin can also be used as a tool to extract a broken key from the lock. They can be cut like a pick and inserted into the lock. This method is especially useful when the damage is located in or near the keyway or the ignition hole.
A car key that is damaged and has electronic components will need a new key from a locksmith or dealer. This is because the key will have to be programmed with a new code and the key chip needs to be replaced. If only the metal or shell of the key fails and needs to be replaced, you'll need to have a new cut. You don't have to reprogramme or replace the electronic components.