Why Key Repair Is Tougher Than You Think
How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're in a rush to get to work and put your keys in the ignition. You try to turn the key, but it snaps in the lock.
There are a few things you could do to fix the problem before calling an experienced locksmith. Here are some easy solutions. Super Glue.
1. Call a locksmith
A broken key in the lock is among the most frustrating things a car owner could experience. This is particularly aggravating when the driver is in a rush to get somewhere, or drop off an infant. In this situation it is imperative to act fast to attempt to get the key out of the way.
car key repair near me is recommended to contact an experienced locksmith for this task for this job, as they will have the right tools to remove the broken key without damage the lock. Many people will look for something small and stiff like paperclips or toothpicks. However, this is not the best option since they are too heavy to fit in the lock.
A much better solution is to find a pair of tweezers since they are very thin and can easily reach the key hole inside the lock. They should be able to grasp the broken piece of a key and then pull it out. If you don't have tweezers then you might consider searching for key extractors, which are usually sold in auto parts stores. They are narrow and flat with small hooks that can be placed into the key hole, and then hold onto the broken bit of the key.
A magnetic key hook can be used to stick to the metal inside the lock and then pull it out. This isn't always a good option since it is possible for it to be caught in the lock and cause further damage to it. In such a scenario it is advised to contact locksmith.
Some people try to glue together the two pieces of a damaged car key using superglue order to get it out of the lock. However, this is extremely risky since the pieces of metal could snag on to each other and then break apart later. It is essential not to turn the key, as this could cause further damage to your lock or the ignition cylinder. It is recommended to contact a professional locksmith who will be ready to take out the broken key and make an immediate replacement.
2. Drill a hole
Even with a spare key, you may not be able to access your vehicle if a key is broken inside the lock. The lock could be drilled out. be the best option in these situations.
You will first want to make sure that the keyhole is set up to accept a basic tumbler key. If it isn't it, you will not be able to drill out the pins without damaging the door and potentially destroying the lock mechanism.
The next step is to understand that you'll be drilling through the outer layer of plastic and an inner metal layer. You can drill through these layers with a small drill bit, however, you should not go any deeper. In the event of drilling too deep, it could cause damage to the wiring harness, or cause the drill to stick.
It is also recommended to wear a face mask and protective gear while working with drills. This will keep dust and dirt from getting into your respiratory system.
It's also a good idea if the broken key piece is still sticking out of the lock, to keep two pairs of pliers and tweezers at hand. If there is enough of the key protruding to be able to grasp with tweezers or pliers, this could suffice to pull it out of the lock. If not, you'll need to use a tool such as this to wedge it into the lock and then turn it toward the key to grab it and pull it out.
3. Drill a nail
If you break your car key in half, it could leave you in a bind. Luckily, there are several ways to fix it without paying for a locksmith. The first way is to utilize a screw or nail. You can find them at home or at the hardware store. It is best to choose a nail as thin and as long as you can. This way, you can place it into the hole and then use epoxy to join the two pieces together. Make sure that the nail's back is flat. This will allow it to fit into the slot cut in the key. This will stop it from moving and potentially breaking again in the future.
4. Super Glue
Many auto owners opt for DIY techniques, such as using super glue, to fix a broken key. This is a dangerous method. You could end up ruining the lock and have to spend more money on replacing it from the dealer or a locksmith.
First, take a look at the keys that are broken and make sure that they match each other in terms of size. This is vital to ensure that the glued parts will be properly aligned 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 help the glue bond stronger and lessen the risk of a key becoming loose in the future.
Once you have polished the edges of the broken key then apply a small amount super glue to one of the ends. Only apply tiny amounts of super glue, as too much could make the key too heavy. It will then be difficult to fit into the lock. After that, carefully place the two broken pieces of the key and press them together. After a few seconds the glue will begin to set and join the key fragments together.
Another common household item that can be used to extract a broken car key is a bobby or paperclip pin, which can be shaped into a pick-like device and placed inside the lock. This method is particularly helpful in the event that the broken part is close or within the keyway or lock hole.
Another important thing to note is that if your car key has electronic components that require a new key cut from the dealership or an experienced locksmith. The key will need to be reprogrammed using a different code, and the chip inside the key will need to be replaced. If only the shell or metal part of the key is damaged, you will need to have a new cut. You won't need to reprogramme or replace the electronics.