How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're in a hurry to get your work done and you put your keys into the ignition. You try turning the key but it is unable to get into the lock.
Luckily, there are several ways you can resolve the issue before calling a locksmith. Here are some easy solutions. Super Glue.
1. Contact a locksmith
A damaged key in the lock is one of the most unpleasant things a vehicle owner could face. This can be particularly frustrating when the driver is trying to get somewhere, or pick up a kid. In this situation, you should act quickly to try and free the stuck key.
Calling an experienced locksmith is the best choice, because they'll have the proper tools and know how to get rid of the keys that are broken without damaging the lock. Many people look around the vehicle to find something light and sturdy such as a paperclip or toothpick, however this usually won't work as it is too thick to enter the lock.
The best option is to use a pair of tweezers. They are small and easily fit into the lock. They should also be strong enough to hold the damaged part of the key and pull it out. If you don't own tweezers, it might be worth searching for a set that is sold at auto parts stores. They are thin, flat and have tiny hooks. They can be inserted into the keyhole and then grasp the broken piece of the key.
Another option is to locate an magnetic key hook that will stick to the metal inside the lock and pull it out. This isn't always the best option since it is possible for it to become stuck under the lock and cause further damage to it. In such a scenario it is recommended to call a locksmith.
Some people will try to join the two pieces of their broken car key together using superglue, thinking that it will help them take it out of the lock. However, this could be very risky as the bits of metal could stick 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 if you have an extra key, you may not be in a position to gain access to your vehicle. In these instances drilling the lock is the most effective option.
It is important to make sure that the keyhole is set up for a basic tumbler. If it's not, you won't be able to drill the pins without damaging the door and potentially destroying the lock mechanism.
It is also important to understand that you'll be drilling through the outer layer of plastic and an inner layer of metal. You can drill through these layers using a tiny drill bits, however, you should not go any further. Drilling too deep can cause damage to the wiring harness, or cause the drill to become stuck.
Wearing a mask or other protective equipment is recommended when using drills. This will keep the dust and dirt from entering your lungs.
It is also a good idea to have two pairs of pliers and tweezers available in the event that the broken key is sticking out of the lock. If there is enough of the key sticking out to grip with tweezers or pliers, this could suffice to pull it out of the lock. If not, you'll have to use a tool like this to wedge it in the lock, and then turn it toward the key to grab it and pull it out.
3. Drill a nail
You can be left stranded in the event that you break your key in half. There are a variety of ways to fix the issue without having to hire a locksmith. The first step is use a screw or nail. These can be found in your home or in a hardware store. It is recommended to pick nails that are as thin and long as possible. So you can insert it into the hole and then apply epoxy glue to join the two pieces together. Make sure that the back of the nails are flat. This will make it easier to fit in the cut slot of the key. This will stop it from moving and breaking in the future.
4. Super Glue
Many car owners resort to DIY techniques such as using super glue to try and fix a broken car key, however this is not a safe way to go. You could damage the lock, and have to shell out more to replace it.
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 fits in the lock after they have been joined. 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 better and decrease the chance of a key becoming 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. Use only tiny amounts of super glue, as too much could make the key too thick. g28carkeys 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 bond the key fragments.
A paperclip or bobby-pin can also be used to remove a damaged key from a lock. They can be cut as a pick, and then inserted into the lock. This method is particularly helpful when the damage is close to or inside the keyway or ignition lock hole.
Another thing to remember is that if your car key has electronic components and requires a new key cut from the dealer or a professional locksmith. This is because the key will need to be programmed with a brand new code and the chip must be replaced. In contrast, if only the metal or shell of the key is damaged, it usually just requires the cutting of a new key and doesn't require any replacement or reprogramming of the electronics.