How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're headed to work in a hurry, and jam your keys in the ignition. You try to turn the key, but it snaps in the lock.
There are several ways you can resolve the issue before calling a locksmith. Here are a few quick solutions. Super Glue.
1. Contact a locksmith
A broken key in the lock is one of the most unpleasant things a vehicle owner could face. This is especially painful if it occurs when the driver is hurrying to get somewhere or to drop off an infant. In this situation, it is important to act swiftly and try to get the key out of the way.
It is recommended to contact an experienced locksmith for this task, because he or she can use the right tools to remove the broken key without harm the lock. Many people look around in their vehicle for something small and rigid like a paperclip or toothpick, however this usually won't work as it's too thick to fit into the lock.
The best option is to use a pair of tweezers. They are thin and easily fit inside the lock. They should also be strong enough to grasp the broken part of the key and pull it out. If you don't own tweezers, it's worth searching for a set available at auto parts stores. These are flat and narrow with small hooks that can be inserted into the key hole, and then hold on the broken piece of the key.
A magnetic key hook can be used to attach to the metal inside the lock, and then pull it out. This is not always a good idea, as it can sometimes get caught under the lock and cause further damage to the lock. In this instance it is best to contact an experienced locksmith.
Some people attempt to join the two pieces of a damaged car key using superglue in order to remove it from the lock. However, this is very risky as the bits of metal could snag on to one another and fall apart later. It is important to not turn the key as it could cause further damage to your lock or the ignition cylinder. It is recommended to contact a professional locksmith who will be able to take the damaged key and then make a replacement on the spot.
2. Drill into a hole
Sometimes a key is broken inside the lock, and even if you have an extra key, you may not be able to gain access to your vehicle. In these cases drilling the lock is the best choice.
First, you will want to make sure that the key hole is set up to accept a standard tumbler car key. If it's not then you won't be able to drill the pins out and damage the lock's door or internal mechanism.
It is important to note that you will drill through an outer layer of plastic as well as an inner layer of metal. You can drill through these layers with a small drill bit, but you shouldn't go any further. If you drill too deep it could cause damage to the wiring harness or cause the drill bit to stick in the hole.
It is also recommended to wear a face mask and protective gear while working using drilling. This will prevent dust and dirt from entering your respiratory system.
It is also a good idea in the event that the key fragment is broken and is sticking out of the lock, to keep pliers and tweezers in your bag. If the key is protruding enough to be held by pliers and tweezers, this will suffice to get it out. If not, however, you will need to use an instrument like this one to encase the tool into the lock and then turn it toward the key in order to grip it and take it out of the hole.
3. Drill a nail
If you smash your car key in half, it can leave you in a bind. Luckily, there are a few ways to fix it without having to pay for a locksmith. The first thing you can do is use screws or nails. You can find these in your house or at the hardware store. However, it is best to look for the nail that is as thin and long as possible. You can then insert it into the hole, and then use epoxy glue to join the two pieces. Make sure that the nail's back is flat. This will help it to fit into the cut slot of the key. This will prevent it from moving and possibly breaking again in the future.
4. Super Glue
Many auto owners use DIY techniques, such as using super glue, to fix a broken key. This is a dangerous practice. You could end up damaging the lock and needing to spend more money on getting a replacement from the dealer or a locksmith.
You must examine the keys that are broken first and make sure they are the same size. This is crucial to ensure that all the glued pieces are aligned correctly and that the key fits into the lock after they've been joined. Then, using https://www.g28carkeys.co.uk/car-key-repairs-near-me/ of fine-grit paper or a metal filing, smooth the edges of the damaged pieces. This will improve the glue's bond and decrease the likelihood of a future key that is loose.
After polishing the edges, apply a small amount (about a pea-sized amount) of super glue to one side. Be careful not to apply too much glue, because this could cause the key to become too heavy and will have difficulty fitting into the lock. After that, carefully align the two pieces of the key and press them together. After a few minutes the glue will begin to set and join together the key fragments.
Another household item that can be used to remove a damaged car key is a bobby pin that can be made into a pick-like device and inserted in the lock. This method is particularly useful in the event that the broken part is close or inside the keyway or lock hole.
Another thing to remember is that if the damaged car key has electronic components that require a new key cut by the dealership or a professional locksmith. The key must be reprogrammed using a new code and the chip in the key needs to be changed. If only the metal or shell of the key breaks, you will need to get a new cut. You don't have to reprogramme or replace the electronic components.