How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're in a rush to get your work done and you put your keys into the ignition. Then you try to turn it around, and it breaks inside the lock!
There are some things you can do to solve the issue before contacting an experienced locksmith. Here are some quick fixes:1. Super Glue.
1. Contact a locksmith
A broken key in the lock is one of the most unpleasant things a vehicle owner can experience. This situation is even more difficult if it happens while the driver is rushing to get somewhere or to drop off a child. In this scenario, you should act quickly to try and get the key out of the way.
A locksmith with experience is the best choice, as they will have the proper tools and know how to get rid of the keys that are broken without damaging the lock. A lot of people look around in their vehicle for something small and rigid like a paperclip, or toothpick, but these usually won't work as it is too thick to be able to get into the lock.
The best option is to use a pair of tweezers. They are thin and are able to easily get into the lock. They should be able to grasp the damaged part of a key and pull it out. If you don't have tweezers, it might be worth looking for a set available at auto parts stores. They are thin and flat 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 can stick to the metal inside the lock and be pulled out. This isn't always the best option since it can get caught under the lock and cause damage. In such a scenario, it is best to call a locksmith.
Some people try to join the two pieces of their broken car key together using superglue, thinking that it will help them remove it from the lock. However, this can be extremely risky since the pieces of metal could snag on to each other and then break apart later. It is also important not to turn the key since this could cause further damage to the lock or the ignition cylinder. It is better to call a professional locksmith who will be on hand to remove the damaged key and then make a replacement on the spot.
2. Drill a hole
Even with a spare key you may not be able access your vehicle if a key breaks inside the lock. The lock could be drilled out. be the best option in these situations.
The first step is to ensure that the key hole is designed to take a basic tumbler car key. If it's not, you won't be able to remove the pins without damaging the door and possibly damaging the lock mechanism.
car remote key repair is important to keep in mind that you will drill through the outer layer of plastic as well as an inner metal layer. A small drill bit will suffice to penetrate these layers, but you need to be sure not to go any deeper than this. If you drill too deeply, it can cause damage to the wiring harness, or cause the drill to stick.
It is also recommended to wear a face mask and protective gear while working with drilling. This will stop dust and dirt from entering your lungs.
Finally, it is an excellent idea to keep a pair of pliers and tweezers on hand in case the broken piece of the key is sticking out of the lock. If the key is protruding enough to be able to be grasped with tweezers and pliers, then this will suffice to get it out. If not, you'll need to use an instrument like this to wedge it in the lock, and then turn it toward the key to grab and pull it out.
3. Drill a nail
You may be left in limbo when you cut your key in half. Luckily, there are some methods to fix it without having to pay for locksmith. The first method is to utilize a screw or nail. These can be found in your home or in a hardware store. It is recommended to pick the nail that is as thin and as long as possible. This way, you can place it into the hole, and then use epoxy to link the two parts together. Make sure that the back of the nails is flat. This will allow it to fit into the cut slot of the key. This will keep it from moving and potentially breaking again in future.
4. Super Glue
Many auto owners use DIY techniques, such as using super glue to repair a damaged or broken key. This is a dangerous method. You could end up damaging the lock and needing to shell out more money for getting a replacement from the dealer or a locksmith.
First, take a look at the keys that have been damaged and make sure that they are in terms of size. This step is essential to ensure that all the glued pieces are aligned correctly and that the key will fit inside the lock once they've been put in place. After that, you can use a piece of sandpaper with fine-grit or a metal file to smooth out the edges on the broken pieces of the key. This will strengthen the glue's bond and decrease the chance of a key that is loose.
After finishing the edges, apply the smallest amount (about an amount of pea-sized) of super glue to the other side. Only apply tiny amounts of super glue as too much could make the key too heavy. It will then be difficult to fit into the lock. Then, carefully place the two broken pieces of the key and press them together. After some time the glue will begin to set and bond the key fragments.
A bobby-pin or a paperclip can also be used as a tool to remove a damaged 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 within or near the keyway or the ignition hole.
A broken car key with electronic components will need a new key from the locksmith or dealer. The key will have to be reprogrammed using a new code and the chip in the key must be changed. If, however, only the shell or metal portion of the key breaks the key, it will usually only require a new key cut and doesn't require replacement or reprogramming of electronics.