How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're heading to work, in hurry, and you jam your keys to your car in the ignition. You try turning 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 an experienced locksmith. Here are a few quick fixes:: 1. Super Glue.
1. Call a Locksmith
One of the worst things that could happen to a car owner is a damaged key in the lock. This can be even more difficult if it happens while the driver is hurrying to get to work or to drop off an infant. In this scenario it is imperative to act fast to try and free the stuck key.
It is recommended to call an expert locksmith for this job as they can use the right tools to remove the broken key without damage the lock. Many people look for something thin and stiff, such as toothpicks or paperclips. But, this is not the best choice since they are too heavy to fit into the lock.
The best way to do this is to use a pair tweezers. They are lightweight and easily fit inside the lock. They should also be strong enough to hold the damaged part of the key and remove it. If you don't have tweezers, then it may be worth searching for keys extractors which are typically found in auto parts stores. These are flat and narrow with hooks that are small enough to be put into the key hole and grip on the broken piece of the key.
A magnetic key hook can be used to stick to the metal inside the lock and then remove it. This isn't always a good idea, as it can sometimes become stuck under the lock and cause further damage to the lock. In such a situation it is advised to call locksmith.
Some people try to join two pieces of a broken car key using superglue order to remove it from the lock. This can be dangerous as the metal pieces could get caught and break later. It is also important not to turn the key because this could cause damage to the lock or ignition cylinder. It is recommended to contact a professional locksmith who will be on hand to take out the broken key and create a replacement on the spot.
2. Drill through a hole
Even having a spare key you may not be able access your vehicle if the key breaks inside the lock. key fob repair may be the best solution in these instances.
First, you need to make sure that the key hole is designed to accept a basic tumbler car key. If it's not then you won't be able to drill out the pins and damage the door or internal lock mechanism.
It is crucial to remember that you'll drill through an outer plastic layer as well as an inner metal layer. You can drill through these layers with the smallest drill bit however, you should not go any further. 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 mask and protective equipment when working with drilling. This will stop dust and dirt from getting into your respiratory system.
It is also a good idea, in the event that the key fragment is broken and is still sticking out of the lock, to have two pairs of pliers and tweezers handy. If the key is protruding enough to be held by pliers and tweezers, this will suffice to get it out. If not, you'll need to use a tool such as this to encase it into the lock and then turn it toward the key to grab and take it out.
3. Drill a nail
If you smash your car key in half, it can leave you in a bind. There are some ways to fix it without paying for a locksmith. The first option is to make use of a screw or nail. These can be found in your home or at a hardware store. It is recommended to select 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 connect the two pieces. It is also important to make sure the nail's back is level. This will allow it to fit into the slot in the key. This will keep it from moving and potentially breaking again in 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 shell out more to replace it.
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 glued pieces are aligned correctly and that the key will fit into the lock after they have been bonded. Then, using a piece fine-grit paper or a metal filing, smooth the edges of the broken pieces. This will make the glue stick better and decrease the chance of a key falling loose in the future.
After finishing the edges After polishing the edges, apply only a small amount (about a pea-sized amount) of super glue on the other side. Use only tiny amounts of super glue, as too much could make the key too thick. It will then be difficult to fit into the lock. After that, carefully align the two pieces of the key and press them together. After some time, the glue will start to set and bind the key fragments together.
Another household item that can be used to help to remove a damaged car key is a bobby pin, which can be shaped into a pick-like tool and put into the lock. This technique is especially helpful when the damage is close to or inside the keyway or lock hole.
A car key that is damaged and has electronic components will need an entirely new key from the dealer or a professional locksmith. This is because the key will have to be programmed with a new code and the chip will need to be replaced. If, however, only the metal or shell of the key fails the key, it will usually only require the cutting of a new key and doesn't require reprogramming or replacing of the electronics.