What Is The Reason Key Repair Is The Right Choice For You?
How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're rushing to get to work and you put your keys into the ignition. You try to turn it around, and it breaks in the lock!
Luckily, there are several ways you can resolve the issue before calling a locksmith. Here are some quick fixes:: 1. Super Glue.
1. Contact a locksmith
One of the worst things that could happen to a car owner is a broken key in the lock. This is especially frustrating when the driver is trying to get somewhere, or to drop off the child. In this situation, it is important to act swiftly and try to release the stuck key.
It is best to call an expert locksmith for this job as they can use the correct tools to take out the broken key without harm the lock. Many people look around the vehicle to find something light and sturdy like a paperclip or toothpick, but these typically won't work since it's too thick to fit into the lock.
The best way to do this is to use a pair tweezers. They are lightweight and easily fit into the lock. They should also be rigid enough to hold the damaged part of the key and remove it. If you don't have tweezers, it might be worth searching for a set sold at auto parts stores. car key fob repairs are thin and flat with small hooks that can be inserted into the key hole, and then hold onto the broken bit of the key.
Another possible solution is to locate a magnetic key hook that can be affixed to the metal inside the lock and pull it out. This is not always the best option, as it can sometimes be caught in the lock and cause further damage to it. In this case it is advised to call an expert locksmith.
Some people attempt to stick the two pieces of their snapped car key together using superglue, thinking that it will help them remove it from the lock. This is a risk since the metal pieces could snag and break later. It is crucial not to turn the key as it could cause further damage to the lock or ignition cylinder. It is best to contact a professional locksmith who will be ready to remove the damaged key and then make a replacement on the spot.
2. Drill into a hole
Sometimes a key is broken inside the lock, and even with a spare, you might not be able to gain access to your vehicle. In these cases drilling the lock is the best choice.
First, you will want to make sure that the key hole is set to accept a basic tumbler car key. If it's not, you won't have the ability to drill the pins out and cause damage to the lock's door or mechanism.
It is important to keep in mind that you'll be drilling through the outer layer of plastic as well as an inner metal layer. You can drill through these layers with a small drill bit, however, you should not go any deeper. If you drill to deep it may damage the internal wiring harness or cause the drill bit to become stuck in the hole.
It is also recommended to wear a mask and protective gear while working using drills. This will prevent dust and dirt from entering your lungs.
It is also a good idea when the broken piece of key is still sticking out of the lock, to keep two pairs of pliers and tweezers handy. If the key is extending enough to be gripped with pliers and tweezers it will be enough to get it out. If not, you'll have to use a tool such as this to encase it in the lock, and then rotate it towards the key to grab it and remove it.
3. Drill a Nail
You may be left in limbo if you break your key in half. There are a few solutions to fix it, without having to pay for locksmith. The first method is to utilize a screw or nail. They are available in your house or at the hardware store. It is recommended to look for the nail that is as thin and as long as you can. This way you can fit it into 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 into the slot in the key. This will prevent it from moving around and breaking in the future.
4. Super Glue
Many car owners make use of DIY techniques like using super glue to repair a broken car key, however this is not a safe thing to do. You could end up damaging the lock and be forced to pay more money to get a new one.
First, you need to take a look at the keys that have been damaged and ensure that they are in terms of size. This is crucial to ensure that all the pieces of the glue are aligned properly and that the key will fit in the lock after they have been put in place. Then, use a piece of fine-grit sandpaper or a metal file to smooth the edges on the damaged pieces of the key. This will make the glue bond better and lessen the risk of a key falling loose in the future.
After you've polished the edges of the damaged key and polished them, apply a small amount super glue to one of the ends. Be careful not to use too much glue, as this can cause the key to become too heavy and may be difficult to fit into the lock. Then, you can carefully align the two pieces of the key and press them together. After a few seconds, the glue will start to set and join the key pieces together.
A paperclip or bobby-pin can also be used to remove a damaged key from an lock. They can be shaped like a pick and then inserted into the lock. This method is particularly useful if the break is near or within the keyway or lock hole.
Another important thing to note is that if your car key has electronic components that require the cutting of a new key by the dealership or a professional locksmith. This is because the key needs to be programmed with a brand new code and the chip will need to be replaced. In contrast, if only the shell or metal portion of the key breaks the key, it will usually only require a new key cut and doesn't require any replacement or reprogramming of the electronics.