How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're in a hurry to get to work, and jam your keys into the ignition. You try to turn the key, but it snaps in the lock.
Luckily, there are several ways you can fix it before calling a locksmith. Here are some quick solutions: 1. Super Glue.
1. Contact an expert locksmith
One of the worst things that could happen to an owner of a vehicle is a broken key in the lock. This can be even more frustrating if it occurs while the driver is trying to get to work or to drop off a child. In this scenario, you should act quickly to try and remove the stuck key.
It is recommended to call an experienced locksmith for this job as they will be able to use the correct tools to take out the broken key without harm the lock. Many people will have a look around in their vehicle for something thin and rigid such as a paperclip or toothpick, but these isn't likely to work as it's too thick to be able to get into the lock.
The best solution is to look for a pair of tweezers, because they are thin and easily reach the key hole within the lock. They should be able to grasp the broken piece of a key and then pull it out. If you don't own tweezers, it might 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 through the keyhole to grasp the broken piece of the key.
A magnetic key hook can be used to adhere to the metal of the lock and then pull it out. This is not always the best option since it could get caught in the lock and cause damage. In this case it is recommended to contact an experienced locksmith.
Some people attempt to glue the two pieces of their car key that have snapped together using superglue, thinking that it will help them take it out of the lock. However, this can be very risky as the bits of metal may cling to one another and break apart later. It is important to not turn the key, as this could cause further damage to the lock or ignition cylinder. Contact a professional locksmith to repair the damaged key right away.
2. Drill a Hole
Even with a spare key you may not be able to access your vehicle if the key breaks inside the lock. In these instances drilling the lock is the most effective option.
It is important to make sure the keyhole is positioned to accept a basic tumbler key. If it isn't, you won't be able to drill out the pins without damaging the door and possibly destroying the internal lock mechanism.
repair car keys near me is to be aware that you'll be drilling through the outer plastic layer and an inner layer of metal. A small drill bit is enough to cut through these layers, but you must be sure to not go any deeper than that. If you drill too deeply it may cause damage to the wiring harness or cause the drill bit to get stuck within the hole.
It is also recommended to wear a mask and protective equipment when working using a drill. This will stop dust and dirt from entering your lungs.
It is also recommended to have a pair of pliers and tweezers on hand in the event that the broken key is sticking out of the lock. If the key is extending 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 such as this to wedge it into the lock and then rotate it towards the key to grasp it and take it out.
3. Drill a nail
You could be left without a home when you cut your key in half. There are several ways to solve the issue without having to pay an locksmith. The first step is use the screw or nail. These are available at your home or at a local hardware store. It is recommended to search for a nail that is as thin and long as possible. This way you can fit it into the hole and then use epoxy to link the two pieces. It is also important to ensure that the back of the nail is level. This will help it 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 car owners resort to DIY techniques, such as using super glue to repair a damaged key. This is a risky practice. You could end up damaging the lock, and then have to pay more money to get a new one.
It is important to examine the broken keys first to ensure they're the same size. This is vital to ensure that the pieces are properly aligned and that the key fits into the lock once they are bonded together. Then, using a piece fine-grit paper or a metal filing, smooth the edges of the broken pieces. This will improve the glue's bond and decrease the possibility of a key that is loose.
After polishing the edges After polishing the edges, apply the smallest amount (about the size of a pea) of super glue to one end. Use only tiny amounts of super glue, as excessive amounts can make the key too large. It will then be difficult to fit into the lock. Then, you can carefully align the two pieces of the key and press them together. After some time, the glue will start to set and join the key pieces together.
A bobby-pin or a paperclip can also be used to extract a broken key from an lock. They can be shaped like a pick and inserted into the lock. This method is particularly helpful if the break is near or within the keyway or lock hole.
Another thing to remember is that if your car key is equipped with electronic components that require a new key cut by the dealership or an experienced locksmith. The key will need to be reprogrammed using a new code and the chip inside the key must be changed. If the shell or metal part of the key breaks, you will need to replace the cut. You won't need to reprogramme or replace electronics.