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How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're heading to work in rush, and put your car keys into the ignition. Then you try turning it, and it snaps off in the lock!
There are a few options you can try to fix it before calling a locksmith. Here are some quick fixes. Super Glue.
1. Call a Locksmith
One of the most devastating things that can happen to a car owner is a damaged key in a lock. This can be particularly frustrating when the driver is trying to get somewhere, or drop off the child. In this situation it is crucial to act quickly and try to free the stuck key.
It is recommended to contact an experienced locksmith for this task for this job, as they will have the correct tools to take out the broken key without damage the lock. Many people will look for something small and stiff like a toothpick or paperclip. But, this is not the best option since they are too thick to fit inside the lock.
The best solution is to look for a pair of tweezers as these are quite thin and easily reach the key hole within the lock. They should be rigid enough to grasp the broken piece of a key and pull it out. If you don't have tweezers then you might consider trying to locate keys extractors which are typically found in auto parts stores. They are narrow, flat and have small hooks. They can be put in the keyhole and grasp the broken piece of the key.
A magnetic key hook can be used to stick to the metal in the lock, and then pull it out. This is not always the best choice as it could get caught in a lock and cause more damage. In this instance it is recommended to contact a professional locksmith.
Some people try to join the two pieces of a damaged car key using superglue in order to remove it from the lock. This can be dangerous as the metal pieces could snag and break later. It is essential not to turn the key because this could cause further damage to your lock or ignition cylinder. It is recommended to contact an expert locksmith who will be able to remove the broken key and create an immediate replacement.
2. Drill into a hole
Even having a spare key you may not be able access your vehicle if the key breaks inside the lock. The lock could be drilled out. be the best option in these instances.
First, you must make sure that the keyhole is set up for a basic tumbler. If it's not then you won't be able to remove the pins without damaging the door and possibly destroying the internal lock mechanism.
Next, it is important to understand that you will be drilling through the outer plastic layer and an inner layer of metal. A small drill bit is enough to get through these layers, but you must ensure that you don't go further than this. If you drill too deeply it could cause damage to the wiring harness or cause the drill bit to become stuck inside the hole.
Wearing a protective mask or equipment is also advised when using drilling. This will keep the dust and dirt from getting into your respiratory system.
In the end, it's recommended to have pliers and tweezers on hand 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 it will be enough to get it out. If not, you'll need to use a tool like this to wedge it in the lock, and then rotate it towards the key to grab and take it out.
3. Drill a nail
If you break your car key in half, it could leave you stranded. Luckily, there are car key repair service to fix it without paying for locksmith. The first step is use the screw or nail. They are available at home or in the hardware store. However, it is best to search for nails that are as thin and long as possible. This way, you can place it into the hole, and then use epoxy to join the two pieces together. Make sure that the back of the nails is flat. This will allow it to fit into the slot in the key. This will keep it from moving and possibly breaking again in the future.
4. Super Glue
Many car owners opt for DIY hacks, like using super glue, to fix a broken key. This is a dangerous method. You could end up damaging the lock, and then have to shell out more money to replace it.
You must examine the keys that are broken first and make sure they're the same size. This step is essential to ensure that all the pieces of the glue are aligned properly and that the key fits into the lock after they've been bonded. After that, use the fine-grit sandpaper or a metal file to smooth out the edges on the damaged pieces of the key. This will strengthen the glue's bond and reduce the possibility of a loose key.
After polishing the edges, apply the smallest amount (about an amount of pea-sized) of super glue on the other side. Only apply a small amount of super glue as excessive amounts can make the key too thick. It will then be difficult to fit into the lock. After that, carefully align the two broken pieces of the key and press them together. After a few moments the glue will begin to set and join together the key fragments.
Another household item that can be used to remove a damaged car key is a bobby pin which can be cut into a pick-like device and put into the lock. This method is particularly helpful in the event that the broken part is close or inside the keyway or ignition lock hole.
Another thing to remember is that if your car key is equipped with electronic components that require the cutting of a new key from the dealership or an experienced locksmith. The key must be reprogrammed with a different code and the chip in the key must be changed. If the metal or shell of the key is damaged it will be necessary to replace the cut. It is not necessary to reprogramme or replace the electronics.