How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're on your way to work, in rush, and put your keys in the ignition. You try to turn it into a lock, and it snaps in the lock!
There are a few ways you can attempt to solve the issue before calling a locksmith. Here are some easy solutions. Super Glue.
1. Contact an expert locksmith
One of the most devastating things that could happen to a car owner is a broken key inside a lock. This situation is even more difficult if it happens while the driver is rushing to get to work or drop off an infant. In this case, you should act quickly to try to free the stuck key.
Calling an experienced locksmith is the best choice, because they'll have the proper tools and know how to remove the keys that are broken without damaging the lock. Many people look around in their vehicle for something small and rigid like a paperclip, or toothpick, however this typically won't work since it's too thick to enter the lock.
The best solution is to search for a pair of tweezers as these are quite thin and can easily get into the key hole within the lock. They should also be sturdy enough to grasp the broken part of the key and pull it out. If you don't own tweezers, it might be worth searching for a set sold at auto parts stores. They are narrow and flat with small hooks that can be placed into the key hole and grip on the broken piece of the key.
Another possible solution is to find the magnetic key hook that can attach to the metal in the lock and pull it out. This isn't always the best choice as it could get caught in the lock and cause further damage. In such a scenario it is advised to call a locksmith.
Some people will try to stick the two pieces of their snapped car key together with superglue, as this can help them to take it out of the lock. This could be risky because the pieces of metal could snag and break later. It is also crucial not to turn the key, because this could cause damage to the lock or ignition cylinder. Get a locksmith professional to repair the broken key immediately.
2. Drill into a hole
Even with a spare key you may not be able access your vehicle if a key breaks inside the lock. Drilling out the lock may be the best solution in these instances.
First, you will want to ensure that the key hole is designed to accept a standard tumbler car key. If it's not then you won't have the ability to drill out the pins and damage the lock's door or mechanism.
It is also important to be aware that you will be drilling through the outer layer of plastic and the inner metal layer. A small drill bit is enough to get through these layers, but you must be sure to not go further than this. Drilling key repair service can damage the internal wiring harness, or cause the drill to snag.
Wearing a mask or protective equipment is also recommended when working with drills. This will stop dirt and dust from entering your respiratory system.
In the end, it's recommended to have pliers and tweezers in your possession in the event that the broken piece of the key is sticking out of the lock. If the key is protruding enough to be able to be grasped with tweezers and pliers, then this will suffice to get it out. If not, you'll need to use a tool such as this to encase it in the lock, and then turn it toward the key to grab it and remove it.
3. Drill a Nail
If you smash your car key in half, it could leave you trapped. Luckily, there are several methods to fix it, without having to pay for locksmith. The first way is to make use of a screw or nail. You can find them at home or in the hardware store. But, it is best to look for the nail that is as thin and long as possible. This will allow you to fit it in the hole and then use epoxy to join the two pieces. Make sure that the nail's back is flat. This will allow it to fit in the cut slot of the key. This will prevent it from moving around and potentially breaking again in the future.
4. Super Glue
Many motorists make use of DIY hacks like using super glue to attempt to fix a damaged car key, but this is a risky way to go. You could end up damaging the lock and have to shell out more money for getting a replacement from the dealer or locksmith.
You must examine the keys that are broken first to ensure they're the same size. This is vital to ensure that the glued pieces are 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 out the edges of the broken pieces. This will make the glue bond stronger and decrease the chance of a key falling loose in the future.
Once you have polished the edges of the broken key, apply a small amount super glue to one of the ends. Only apply a small amount of super glue, since excessive amounts can make the key too large. It will then be difficult to fit into the lock. After aligning the two pieces of the key that broke then press them together. After a few minutes the glue will begin to set and bind to the key pieces.
Another common household item that can be used to help extract a broken car key is a paperclip or bobby pin that can be made into a pick-like tool, then inserted in the lock. This method is particularly helpful if the break is near or within the keyway or lock hole.
A broken car key with electronic components will need a new key from the locksmith or dealer. The key will have to be reprogrammed using a new code and the chip inside the key needs to be replaced. If the metal or shell of the key fails it will be necessary to have a new cut. It is not necessary to reprogramme or replace electronic components.