How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're in a rush to get to work, and put your keys in the ignition. You try to turn it, and it snaps off in the lock!
There are a few options you can try to fix it before calling a locksmith. Here are some easy solutions. Super Glue.
1. Call a Locksmith
A damaged key in the lock is among the worst things a car owner could experience. This situation is even more frustrating if it occurs while the driver is hurrying to get to work or to drop off a child. In this situation it is essential to act swiftly and try to get the key out of the way.
It is best to call an expert locksmith for this job as they can use the correct tools to take out the broken key without damage the lock. Many people will have a look around in their vehicle to find something light and sturdy such as a paperclip or toothpick, but this isn't likely to work as it is too thick to fit into the lock.
The best way to do this is to use a pair of tweezers. They are small and can easily reach 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 own tweezers then it may be worth searching for key extractors which are typically available in auto parts stores. These are flat, narrow and have small hooks. They can be inserted into the keyhole and then take the broken portion of the key.
A magnetic key hook can be used to attach to the metal in the lock, and then remove it. This is not always the best option because it could become stuck under the lock and cause further damage to it. In such a situation it is recommended to call locksmith.
Some people attempt to glue together the two pieces of a broken car key using superglue order to remove it from the lock. This can be dangerous because the pieces of metal could get caught and break later. It is also essential not to turn the key, because this could cause damage to the lock or the ignition cylinder. Get a locksmith professional to repair the damaged key right away.
2. Drill car keying repair with a spare key, you might not be able to access your vehicle if a key is broken inside the lock. In these situations, drilling out the lock is the best choice.
The first step is to make sure that the key hole is designed to accept a standard tumbler car key. If it's not there, you won't be able to drill the pins out and cause damage to the door or internal lock mechanism.
The next step is to understand that you'll be drilling through the outer plastic layer and the inner metal layer. A small drill bit is sufficient to get through these layers, but it is important to ensure that you don't go further than this. In the event of drilling too deep, it could damage the internal wiring harness, or cause the drill to become stuck.
It is also recommended to wear a face mask and protective gear when working using a drill. This will prevent dust and dirt from getting into your lungs.
It is also a good idea, when the broken piece of key remains stuck in the lock, to keep a pair pliers and tweezers at hand. If the key is long enough to be gripped with tweezers and pliers, then this is enough to pull it out. If not, however you'll need to use an instrument like this one to encase the tool into the lock, and then turn it towards the key in order to grip it and pull it out of the hole.
3. Drill a nail
If you break your car key in half, it could cause you to be stranded. There are a few ways to fix it without paying for a locksmith. The first step is to use a screw or nail. They can be found in your home or at a local hardware store. However, it is best to try to find a nail that is as thin and as long as you can. This way, you can place it in the hole and then use epoxy to connect the two pieces together. Make sure that the back of the nails is flat. This will help it to fit in the cut slot of the key. This will stop it from moving and potentially breaking again in the future.
4. Super Glue
Many motorists use DIY hacks, like using super glue to repair a damaged key. This is a risky practice. You could end up ruining the lock and having to shell out more money for replacing it from the dealership or a locksmith.
You need to check the keys that have been damaged first, and ensure that they are the same size. This is crucial to ensure that all the glued pieces are aligned correctly and that the key will fit in the lock after they have been bonded. Then, using a piece fine-grit paper or a metal filing, smooth the edges of the damaged pieces. This will improve the glue's bond and decrease the possibility of a key that is loose.
After finishing the edges after polishing, apply only a small amount (about a pea-sized amount) of super glue to the other side. Only apply a small amount 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 broken pieces of the key and press them together. After several seconds, the glue will start to set and bind the key fragments together.
Another household item that can be used to to remove a damaged car key is a bobby pin, which can be shaped into a pick-like device and put into the lock. This method is especially useful if the break is inside or close to the keyway or ignition hole.
Another important point to keep in mind is that if the damaged car key is equipped with electronic components that require the cutting of a new key from the dealership or an experienced locksmith. This is because the key will have to be programmed using a new code and the chip needs to be replaced. In contrast, if only the shell or metal portion of the key fails the key, it will usually only require a new key cut and doesn't require replacement or reprogramming of electronics.