How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're in a rush to get your work done and jam your keys into the ignition. Then you try to turn it into a lock, and it snaps inside the lock!
There are some things you can try to fix the issue before contacting an experienced locksmith. Here are a few quick solutions. car key fob repair near me . Contact a locksmith
One of the worst things that can happen to a car owner is a damaged key in locks. This situation is even more difficult if it happens while the driver is hurrying to get somewhere or to drop off an infant. In such a situation it is essential to act swiftly and try to get the key out of the way.
A locksmith with experience is the best choice, as they will have the right tools and know how to take out the keys broken without damaging the lock. Many people will have a look around the vehicle to find something light and sturdy such as a paperclip or toothpick, however this usually won't work as it's too heavy to be able to get into the lock.
The best option is to use a pair tweezers. They are lightweight and can easily reach into the lock. They should be rigid enough to grasp the damaged part of a key, and then pull it out. If you don't own tweezers then you might consider looking for key extractors that are often available in auto parts stores. These are flat, narrow and have tiny hooks. They can be inserted through the keyhole to grab the broken part of the key.
Another option is to find an magnetic key hook that will attach to the metal in the lock and pull it out. This is not always the best choice as it could get caught in the lock and cause damage. In this case it is best to contact an experienced locksmith.
Some people attempt to stick the two pieces of their car key that have snapped together with superglue, as it can aid them in remove it from the lock. This could be risky because the pieces of metal could snag and break later. It is crucial not to turn the key because this could cause further damage to your lock or ignition cylinder. It is best to contact an expert locksmith who will be able to take out the broken key and make an immediate replacement.
2. Drill a Hole
Sometimes a key breaks inside the lock, and even with a spare, you might not be able to gain access to your vehicle. In these instances drilling out the lock is the most effective option.
It is important to make sure the keyhole is set up 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 potentially destroying the lock mechanism.
It is important to keep in mind that you will drill through an outer layer of plastic as well as an inner metal layer. A small drill bit is sufficient to get through these layers, but you need to be sure not to go any deeper than this. In the event of drilling too deep, it could damage the internal wiring harness, or cause the drill to snag.
It is also recommended to wear a face mask and protective gear when working using drilling. This will keep dirt and dust from entering your respiratory system.
It's also a good idea, in the event that the key fragment is broken and remains stuck in the lock, to have a pair pliers and tweezers in your bag. If there is enough of the key to be able to grasp with tweezers or pliers, this should suffice to pull it out of the lock. If there isn't, however, you will need to use a tool such as this one to wedge the tool inside the lock, and then turn it toward the key to grip and pull it out of the hole.
3. Drill a Nail
You can be left stranded if you break your key in half. There are a variety of ways to fix the problem without having to hire a locksmith. The first step is use a screw or nail. They are available in your house or at a hardware store. However, it is best to look for nails that are as thin and as long as you can. This will allow you to fit it into the hole and then use epoxy to connect the two parts 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 future.
4. Super Glue
Many motorists resort to DIY hacks like using super glue try and fix a broken car key, but this is a dangerous way to go. You could cause damage to the lock, and then have to pay more money to replace it.
First, you need to examine the keys that have been damaged and make sure they are identical in terms of size. This is vital to ensure that the glued pieces will be aligned properly and that the key fits into the lock after they are bonded together. After that, use a piece of fine-grit sandpaper or a metal file to smooth out the edges on the damaged pieces of the key. This will help make the glue bond stronger and reduce the chances of a key becoming loose in the future.
After polishing the edges after polishing, apply the smallest amount (about the size of a pea) of super glue on one side. Be cautious not to apply too much, as this could cause the key to become too thick and will have difficulty fitting into the lock. Then, carefully place the two broken pieces of the key and press them together. After some time the glue will begin to set and bind the key fragments together.
Another common household item that can be used to remove a damaged car key is a bobby pin that can be made into a pick-like tool, then inserted in the lock. This technique is particularly useful when the damage is located within or close to the keyway or the ignition hole.
Another thing to remember is that if the broken car key has electronic components, it will require a new key cut by the dealership or an experienced locksmith. The key will need to be reprogrammed with a different code and the chip inside the key must be replaced. If only the shell or metal part of the key fails, you will need to get a new cut. You don't have to reprogramme or replace the electronics.