How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're on your way to work in a hurry, and jam your car keys into the ignition. You try to turn it around, and it breaks from the lock!
Luckily, there are a few options you can resolve the issue before calling a locksmith. Here are some easy solutions. Super Glue.
1. Call a Locksmith
One of the worst things that could happen to an owner of a vehicle is a damaged key in locks. This is especially difficult if it happens while the driver is rushing to get to work or drop off an infant. In this situation it is crucial to act quickly and try to free the stuck key.
It is best to call an expert locksmith for this job, because he or she can use the appropriate tools to remove the broken key and not damage the lock. A lot of people look around the vehicle for something thin and rigid such as a paperclip or toothpick, but these isn't likely to work as it is too thick to be able to get into the lock.
A much better solution is to find an tweezers set, as these are quite thin and can easily get into the key hole in the lock. They should also be rigid enough to grasp the broken part of the key and then pull it out. If you don't own tweezers, it's worth searching for a set that is available at auto parts stores. These are flat, narrow and have hooks that are small. 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 of the lock and then remove it. This isn't always the best choice as it can get caught under the lock and cause damage. In this case it is recommended to contact locksmith.
Some people try to join the two pieces of a damaged car key with superglue in order to get it out of the lock. However, this can be extremely risky since the pieces of metal could snag on to one another and break apart again later on. It is also crucial not to turn the key, since this could cause further damage to the lock or the ignition cylinder. It is recommended to contact 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 having a spare key you may not be able to access your vehicle if a key is broken inside the lock. A drill may be the best option in these instances.
First, you will want to make sure that the key hole is set to accept a standard tumbler car key. If it isn't then you won't be able to drill the pins without damaging the door, and potentially destroying the lock mechanism.
The next step is to know that you will be drilling through the outer plastic layer and an inner layer of metal. A small drill bit will suffice to cut through these layers, but it is important to be sure to not go any deeper than that. If you drill too deeply, it can damage the internal wiring harness, or cause the drill to become stuck.
It is also recommended to wear a mask and protective gear when working using drilling. This will keep dust and dirt from getting into your respiratory system.
Finally, it is a good idea to have a pair of pliers and tweezers available in case the damaged piece of the key is sticking out of the lock. If the key is protruding enough to be gripped with pliers and tweezers this is enough to pull it out. If there isn't, however, remote car key repairs will need to use a tool such as this one to wedge the tool into the lock, and then turn it toward the key in order to grip it and remove it from the hole.
3. Drill a Nail
You could be left without a home if you break your key in half. Luckily, there are some ways to fix it without paying for a locksmith. The first option is to utilize a screw or nail. They are available at home or at a hardware store. It is recommended to try to find the nail that is as thin as it can be and as long as is possible. This will allow you to fit it in the hole and then use epoxy to join the two pieces together. Make sure that the back of the nails is flat. This will allow it to fit into the slot cut in the key. This will prevent it from moving around and possibly breaking again in the future.
4. Super Glue
Many motorists use DIY hacks such as using super glue to repair a broken car key, but this is a dangerous way to go. You could cause damage to the lock and be forced to shell out more money to replace it.
First, take a look at the keys that have been damaged and make sure that they match each other in terms of size. This is essential to ensure that the glued parts will be aligned properly and the key will fit into the lock once they are bonded together. Then, using a piece fine-grit paper or a metal filing, smooth the edges of the damaged pieces. This will strengthen the glue's bond and decrease the possibility of a key that is loose.
After you've polished the edges of the broken key, apply a small amount of super glue to one of the ends. Be cautious not to apply too much glue, as this can cause the key to become too heavy and will have difficulty fitting into the lock. After lining up the two pieces of the broken key then press them together. After a few moments, the glue will begin to set and join together the key fragments.
A bobby-pin or paperclip can also be used as a tool to extract a broken key from a lock. They can be shaped like a pick and then inserted into the lock. This technique is particularly helpful if the break is within or close to the keyway or the ignition hole.
A broken car key with electronic components will need a new key from a dealer or a professional locksmith. The key must be reprogrammed using a different code and the chip inside the key will need to be changed. If, however, only the metal or shell of the key fails it typically requires the cutting of a new key and doesn't require replacement or reprogramming of electronic components.