How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're headed to work in a hurry, and jam your keys to your car in the ignition. Then you try to turn it into a lock, and it snaps inside the lock!
Luckily, there are a few options you can try to solve the issue before calling a locksmith. Here are some easy fixes. Super Glue.
1. Contact a locksmith
A broken key in the lock is among the worst things a car owner could face. This can be particularly frustrating if the driver is in a rush to get somewhere, or to drop off a kid. In such a situation it is crucial to act quickly and attempt to get the key out of the way.
Calling an experienced locksmith is the best option, because they'll have the proper tools and know how to get rid of the broken keys without damaging the lock. A lot of people look around in their vehicle for something small and rigid like a paperclip, or toothpick, but these usually won't work as it's too heavy to fit into the lock.
The best solution is to use a pair of tweezers. They are thin and are able to easily get into the lock. They should be strong enough to grasp the broken piece of a key and then pull it out. If you don't have tweezers then it may be worth searching for keys extractors which are typically found in auto parts stores. They are narrow, flat and have tiny hooks. They can be put in the keyhole and grasp the broken piece of the key.
Another option is to find a magnetic key hook that will stick to the metal inside the lock and then pull it out. This isn't always the best choice as it could be caught under the lock and cause damage. In such a scenario it is advised to contact an expert locksmith.
Some people attempt to glue together the two pieces of a damaged car key using superglue in order to take it out of the lock. This is a risk since the metal pieces could snag and break later. It is also crucial not to turn the key, as this can cause further damage to the lock or ignition cylinder. It is better to call an expert locksmith who will be able to take out the damaged key and then make a replacement on the spot.
2. Drill through a hole
Even with a spare key, you might not be able to access your vehicle if a key breaks inside the lock. Drilling out the lock may be the best solution in these instances.
The first step is to make sure that the key hole is designed to accept a standard tumbler car key. If it isn't then you won't be able to drill the pins without damaging the door, and possibly destroying the internal lock mechanism.
The next step is to be aware that you'll be drilling through the outer plastic layer and the inner metal layer. A small drill bit will suffice to penetrate these layers, but you must be sure not to go further than this. If you drill too deeply, it can cause damage to the wiring harness or cause the drill to become stuck.
Wearing a mask or protective equipment is recommended when using drills. This will stop dust and dirt from getting into your lungs.
It is also a good idea if the broken key piece remains stuck in the lock, to have two pairs of pliers and tweezers in your bag. If there is enough of the key to grip with tweezers or pliers, this will suffice to pull it out of the lock. If not, you'll have to use a tool such as this to encase it in the lock, and then turn it toward the key to grasp it and pull it out.
3. Drill a Nail
You may be left in limbo if you break your key in half. Luckily, there are some solutions to fix it without having to pay for a locksmith. The first thing you can do is use the screw or nail. These can be found in your home or in a hardware store. It is recommended to select a nail as thin and as long as possible. So you can insert it into the hole, and then apply epoxy glue to join the two pieces. Make Read the Full Write-up that the back of the nails are flat. This will make it easier to fit in the cut slot of the key. This will keep it from moving, and could even prevent it from breaking again in future.
4. Super Glue
A lot of motorists resort to DIY techniques such as using super glue to repair a broken car key, however this is a dangerous thing to do. You could end up ruining the lock and have to pay more for getting a replacement from the dealer or a locksmith.
The first step is to examine the broken keys and ensure that they are in terms of size. This step is crucial to ensure that the pieces will be aligned properly and that the key fits into the lock after they are bonded together. Then, using a piece of fine-grit paper or a metal filing, smooth the edges of the damaged pieces. This will make the glue bond better and reduce the chances of a loose key in the future.
After polishing the edges after polishing, apply a small amount (about the size of a pea) of super glue to one side. Be careful not to use too much, because this could cause the key to become too thick and may be difficult to fit into the lock. Then, 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.
A bobby-pin or a paperclip can also be used as a tool to extract a broken key from a lock. They can be shaped like a pick and inserted into the lock. This technique is particularly useful in the event that the broken part is within or near the keyway or ignition hole.
A car key that has been damaged with electronic components will require 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 key chip must be replaced. In contrast, if only the shell or metal portion of the key fails the key, it will usually only require the cutting of a new key and doesn't require any replacement or reprogramming of the electronic components.