How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're on your way to work in hurry, and you jam your keys to your car in the ignition. You try to turn the key but it is unable to get into the lock.
There are a few things you could do to solve the issue before contacting a professional locksmith. Here are a few easy fixes:1. Super Glue.
1. Call a Locksmith
A broken key in the lock is among the most unpleasant things a vehicle owner could face. This situation is even more difficult if it happens while the driver is trying to get somewhere or to drop off an infant. In this case it is essential to act quickly and attempt to release the stuck key.
It is best to call an expert locksmith for this job, because he or she will have the correct tools to take out the broken key without cause damage to the lock. A lot of people look around their car for something small and rigid like a paperclip, or toothpick, however this isn't likely to work as it's too heavy to be able to get into the lock.
The best option is to use a pair of tweezers. They are lightweight and are able to easily get into the lock. They should also be rigid enough to grasp the broken part of the key and remove it. If you don't have tweezers, it might be worth looking for a set sold at auto parts stores. They are thin and flat with small hooks that can be inserted into the key hole, and then hold onto the broken bit of the key.
A magnetic key hook can be used to stick to the metal of the lock, and then pull it out. This isn't always a good idea, as it can sometimes become stuck under the lock and cause further damage to it. In such a scenario it is recommended to call a locksmith.
Some people attempt to join the two pieces of a damaged car key with superglue in order to get it out of the lock. However, this could be extremely risky since the pieces of metal could snag on to one another and fall apart later. It is also crucial not to turn the key, because this could cause damage to the lock or ignition cylinder. It is recommended to contact an expert 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 with an extra key, you may not be capable of opening the door to your vehicle. The lock could be drilled out. be the best option in these situations.
You will first want to make sure that the keyhole is set for a basic tumbler. If it's not it, you will not be able to drill the pins without damaging the door, and possibly destroying the internal lock mechanism.
Next, it is important to understand that you will be drilling through the outer plastic layer and the inner metal layer. You can drill through these layers with a small drill bit, however, you should not go deeper. 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 a drill. This will keep the dust and dirt from entering your lung.
It's also a good idea when the broken piece of key remains stuck in the lock, to have a pair pliers and tweezers handy. If the key is protruding enough to be gripped with tweezers and pliers, then this will suffice to get it out. If not, you'll have to use a tool like this to wedge it into the lock and then turn it toward the key to grasp it and pull it out.
3. Drill a nail
If you smash your car key in half, it could cause you to be stranded. There are a few methods to fix it, without having to pay for a locksmith. The first method is to utilize a screw or nail. These are available at your home or in a hardware store. However, it is best to look for nails that are as thin and long as possible. This means you can put it into the hole and then use epoxy glue to join the two pieces together. It is also good to make sure the nail's back is level. This will make it easier to fit in the cut slot of the key. This will prevent it from moving around and breaking in the future.
4. Super Glue
Many auto owners opt for DIY hacks, 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 have to pay more for replacing it from the dealership or a locksmith.
You need to check the keys that have been damaged first to ensure they are of the same size. This step is crucial to ensure that the pieces are properly aligned and the key will fit into the lock after they have been bonded. After that, use a piece of fine-grit sandpaper or a metal file to smooth the edges on the broken pieces of the key. This will strengthen the glue's bond and reduce the possibility of a key that is loose.
After polishing the edges after polishing, apply the smallest amount (about an amount of pea-sized) of super glue to one side. Only apply the smallest amount of super glue, since excessive amounts 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 then press them together. After a short time, the glue will begin to set and join the key fragments.
A bobby-pin or paperclip can also be used as a tool to remove a broken key from a lock. They can be shaped like a pick and then inserted into the lock. mobile car key repair is especially helpful when the damage is close to or within the keyway or lock hole.
Another important thing to note is that if the broken car key has electronic components that require a new key cut by the dealership or a professional locksmith. This is because the key will have to be programmed with a new code and the key chip will need to be replaced. If, however, only the metal or shell of the key breaks it typically requires an entirely new key cut, and doesn't require replacement or reprogramming of the electronics.