How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're on your way to work in hurry, and you jam your keys in the ignition. Then you try to turn it into a lock, and it snaps from the lock!
There are a few options you can fix it before calling a locksmith. Here are a few easy fixes:: 1. Super Glue.
1. Contact a locksmith
One of the worst things that could happen to an owner of a vehicle is a broken key in a lock. This is especially frustrating if it occurs while the driver is trying to get somewhere or to drop off the child. In this scenario you must act swiftly to try to get the key out of the way.
It is best to call an experienced locksmith for this job as they can use the right tools to remove the broken key without cause damage to the lock. Many people are looking for something that is thin and rigid such as toothpicks or paperclips. But it is not the best option since they are too thick to fit in the lock.
The best option is to look for an tweezers set, because they are thin and can easily reach the key hole in the lock. They should be strong enough to grab the broken part of a key, and then pull it out. If visit the following website page don't own tweezers then it may be worth searching for a set of key extractors which are typically sold in auto parts stores. These are flat and narrow with small hooks that can be put into the key hole, and then hold onto the damaged part of the key.
Another possible solution is to find the magnetic key hook that can attach to the metal in the lock and be pulled out. This isn't always the best option, as it can sometimes become stuck under the lock and cause further damage to the lock. In this instance 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 this can help them to remove it from the lock. However, this is extremely risky since the pieces of metal may cling to one another and fall apart later. It is important to not turn the key, as it could cause further damage to your lock or the ignition cylinder. Contact a professional locksmith to repair the damaged key right away.
2. Drill a hole
Sometimes a key breaks inside the lock, and even with an extra key, you may not be in a position to gain access to your vehicle. In these instances drilling the lock is the best choice.
First, you must ensure that the keyhole is set up to accept a basic tumbler key. If it's not then you won't be able to remove the pins and cause damage to the door or internal lock mechanism.
Next, it is important to understand that you will 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 it is important to be sure to not go any deeper than that. If you drill to deep, it could 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 with drills. This will stop dust and dirt from getting into your lungs.
It is also recommended to have two pairs of pliers and tweezers on hand in case the broken piece of the key is sticking out of the lock. If the key is long enough to be able to be grasped with tweezers and pliers, then this will suffice to get it out. If not, you will need to use tools like this one to encase the tool in the lock, and then turn it towards the key to grip and remove it from the hole.
3. Drill a nail
If you smash your car key in half, it can cause you to be in a bind. There are several ways to fix the problem without the expense of locksmith. The first step is to use the screw or nail. These can be found in your home or at a hardware store. It is recommended to search for a nail that is as thin and as long as you can. This means you can put it into the hole, and then apply epoxy glue to join the two pieces. It is also important to make sure the nail's back is flat. This will allow it to fit into the slot cut in the key. This will prevent it from moving and potentially breaking again in the future.
4. Super Glue
Many motorists resort to DIY tricks such as using super glue to attempt to fix a damaged car key, however this is a dangerous thing to do. You could end up damaging the lock and needing to shell out more money for finding a replacement at the dealership or locksmith.
First, examine the keys that have been damaged and ensure that they match each other in terms of size. This step is essential to ensure that all pieces that have been glued are aligned correctly and that the key will fit inside the lock once they've been put in place. Then, using a piece of fine-grit paper or a metal filing, smooth the edges of the damaged pieces. This will help make the glue bond better and lessen the risk of a key falling loose in the future.
Once you have polished the edges of the broken key and polished them, apply a small amount of super glue to one of the ends. Only apply a small amount of super glue, as excessive amounts can make the key too thick. It will then be difficult to fit into the lock. Then, you can carefully place the two pieces of the key and press them together. After a short time, the glue will begin to set and bind the key fragments.
Another household item that can be used to to remove a damaged car key is a bobby pin, which can be shaped into a pick-like device and put into the lock. This method is particularly useful in the event that the broken part is close or inside the keyway or 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 by the dealership or an experienced locksmith. This is because the key will need to be programmed with a brand new code and the key chip will need to be replaced. If the shell or metal part of the key breaks it will be necessary to have a new cut. You won't need to reprogramme or replace the electronics.