How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair (Peatix.Com)

You're headed to work, in rush, and put your car keys into the ignition. You try to turn the key, but it snaps in the lock.

There are a few ways you can try to resolve the issue before calling a locksmith. Here are a few quick solutions: Broken Car Key Repair 1. Super Glue.

1. Contact a locksmith

A broken key in the lock is among the most unpleasant things a vehicle owner could experience. This can be even more frustrating if it occurs while the driver is rushing to get somewhere or to drop off the child. In this case it is essential to act quickly and try to release the stuck key.

Calling an experienced locksmith is the best choice, as they'll have the proper tools and know how to take out the keys that are broken without damaging the lock. A lot of people look around their car for something thin and rigid like a paperclip or toothpick, but this isn't likely to work as it is too thick to fit into the lock.

The best solution is to find a pair of tweezers as these are quite thin and easily reach the key hole in the lock. They should be strong enough to grasp the damaged part of a key and then pull it out. If you don't have tweezers, it could be worth searching for a set that is sold at auto parts stores. They are narrow, flat 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 adhere to the metal inside the lock and then pull it out. This isn't always the best option as it could get caught in a lock and cause more damage. In such a situation, it is best to contact a locksmith.

Some people attempt to join two pieces of a damaged car key using superglue in order to take it out of the lock. This could be risky as the metal pieces could get caught and break later. It is also important not to turn the key, as this can cause further damage to the lock or ignition cylinder. It is better to call an expert locksmith who will be able to take out the broken key and make a replacement on the spot.

2. Drill a hole

Even with a spare key you may not be able to access your vehicle if a key breaks inside the lock. In these situations drilling out the lock is the most effective option.

It is important to make sure the keyhole is set for a basic tumbler. If it's not there, you won't be able to drill the pins out and damage the door or internal lock mechanism.

It is crucial to remember that you'll drill through an outer layer of plastic as well as an inner metal layer. A small drill bit is sufficient to cut through these layers, but you must be sure not to go any deeper than this. If you drill too deeply it may damage the internal wiring harness or cause the drill bit to stick within the hole.

It is also recommended to wear a face mask and Broken Car Key Repair protective gear when working with a drill. This will keep the dust and dirt from getting into your lungs.

It is also recommended to have pliers and tweezers on hand in case the damaged key is sticking out of the lock. If the fob key repair is protruding enough to be able to be grasped with pliers and tweezers this will suffice to get it out. If not, you'll have to use an instrument such as this to encase it into the lock and then rotate it towards the key to grasp it and pull it out.

3. Drill a nail

If you break your car key in half, it could leave you stranded. There are several ways to fix the issue without the expense of a locksmith. The first step is to use a screw or nail. You can find these at home or at a hardware store. It is recommended to select nails that are as thin and long as possible. You can then insert 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 into the slot cut in the key. This will prevent it from moving, and could even prevent it from breaking again in the future.

4. Super Glue

A lot of car owners resort to DIY techniques like using super glue to attempt to fix a damaged car key, however this is a risky option to make. You could end up damaging the lock and have to pay more for replacing it from the dealership or a locksmith.

It is important to examine the keys that are broken first and make sure they're the same size. This is vital to ensure that the glued pieces will be properly aligned and the key will fit into the lock after they have been bonded. Then, using a piece of fine-grit paper or a metal filing, smooth out the edges of the damaged pieces. This will help make the glue stick better and decrease the chance of a key becoming loose in the future.

After finishing the edges after polishing, apply the smallest amount (about the size of a pea) of super glue on one end. Be careful not to apply too much, as this could cause the key to become too thick and will have difficulty fitting into the lock. After lining up the two pieces of the key that broke then press them together. After a few moments the glue will begin to set and bind together the key fragments.

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 then inserted into the lock. This technique is particularly helpful if the break is inside or near the keyway or the ignition hole.

A car key that is damaged and has electronic components will require a new key from a dealer 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. However, if the metal or shell of the key is damaged it typically requires a new key cut and doesn't require reprogramming or replacing of the electronics.