How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're heading to work in a hurry, and jam your keys to your car in the ignition. You try to turn it, and it snaps off inside the lock!
Luckily, there are a few options you can resolve the issue before calling a locksmith. Here are some quick fixes. Super Glue.
1. Call for a locksmith
A damaged key in the lock is one of the most unpleasant things a vehicle owner could experience. This is especially frustrating when the driver is in a rush to get somewhere, or pick up an infant. In this case, it is important to act quickly and try to get the key out of the way.
Calling an experienced locksmith is the best option, as they will have the proper tools and know how to remove the keys broken without damaging the lock. Many people will have a look around their car to find something light and sturdy like a paperclip or toothpick, however this typically won't work since it's too thick to enter the lock.
The best way to do this is to use a pair tweezers. They are small and easily fit inside the lock. They should also be rigid enough to hold the damaged part of the key and pull it out. If you don't own tweezers, it might be worth looking for a set that is available at auto parts stores. They are narrow and flat with small hooks that can be put into the key hole and then grip on the broken piece of the key.
Another possible solution is to locate an magnetic key hook that is able to be affixed to the metal inside the lock and pull it out. This is not always the best option since it could get caught in the lock and cause further damage. In this case it is best to contact a professional locksmith.
Some people attempt to join the two pieces of their car key that have snapped with superglue as it can aid them in remove it from the lock. However, this is extremely risky since the pieces of metal may cling to one another and break apart later. It is essential not to turn the key, as this could cause further damage to your lock or the ignition cylinder. Call a professional locksmith to repair the broken key immediately.
2. Drill a hole
Even with a spare key, you may not be able access your vehicle if a key is broken inside the lock. In these cases drilling out the lock is the most effective option.
You will first want to ensure that the keyhole is set up for a basic tumbler key. If it's not then you won't be able to drill out the pins and cause damage to the lock's door or internal mechanism.
It is also important to know that you will be drilling through the outer plastic layer and an inner metal layer. A small drill bit is enough to penetrate these layers, but you need to be sure to not go further than this. If you drill too deeply it could damage the internal wiring harness or cause the drill bit to get stuck within the hole.
It is also recommended to wear a mask and protective gear while working using drills. mobile key repair will prevent dust and dirt from getting into your lungs.
It is also an excellent idea to keep two pairs of pliers and tweezers on hand in case the damaged piece of the key is sticking out of the lock. If the key is extending enough to be gripped with pliers and tweezers this will suffice to get it out. If not, you'll have to use a tool such as this to encase it in the lock, and then rotate it towards the key to grab it and pull it out.
3. Drill a nail
If you smash your car key in half, it can cause you to be stranded. There are several ways to fix the issue without having to pay a locksmith. The first way is to use a nail or screw. You can find them in your house or at a hardware store. It is recommended to pick a nail as thin and long as possible. So you can insert it into the hole, and then apply epoxy glue to join the two pieces. It is also important to ensure that the back of the nail is flat. This will allow it to fit into the slot cut in the key. This will prevent it from moving and possibly breaking again in the future.
4. Super Glue
Many car owners opt for DIY hacks, such as using super glue, to fix a broken key. This is a dangerous method. You could end up damaging the lock and have to pay more for finding a replacement at the dealer or a locksmith.
It is important to examine the keys that have been damaged first and make sure they're the same size. This is essential to ensure that the glued parts will be properly aligned and the key will fit into the lock after they have been bonded. Then, use a piece of sandpaper with fine-grit or a metal file to smooth out the edges on the damaged pieces of the key. This will improve the bond of glue and decrease the chance of a key that is loose.
After polishing the edges After polishing the edges, apply a small amount (about an amount of pea-sized) of super glue on the other side. Only apply the smallest amount of super glue, as excessive amounts can make the key too large. It will then be difficult to fit into the lock. After lining up the two pieces of the key that broke and pressing them together, you can press them. After a few seconds the glue will begin to set and bond the key pieces together.
A paperclip or bobby-pin can also be used as a tool to remove a broken key from the lock. They can be shaped like a pick and inserted into the lock. This method is particularly useful in the event that the broken part is close or inside the keyway or ignition lock hole.
Another important point to keep in mind is that if the damaged car key is equipped with electronic components and requires the cutting of a new key from the dealer or an experienced locksmith. The key must be reprogrammed using a new code and the chip in the key needs to be changed. In contrast, if only the shell or metal portion of the key is damaged, it usually just requires the cutting of a new key and doesn't require replacement or reprogramming of electronic components.