How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair

You're rushing to get to work and jam your keys into the ignition. You try to turn it around, and it breaks from the lock!

Luckily, there are a few options you can resolve the issue before calling a locksmith. Here are a few quick fixes. Super Glue.

1. Call an expert locksmith

A damaged key in the lock is among the most unpleasant things a vehicle owner could face. This is especially painful if it occurs when the driver is hurrying to get somewhere or to drop off the child. In this case it is essential to act swiftly and try to free the stuck key.

It is recommended to contact an expert locksmith for this job as they will be able to use the appropriate tools to remove the broken key and not damage the lock. Many people will look for something small and stiff such as toothpicks or paperclips. However this isn't the best solution as they are too large to fit inside the lock.

The best option is to look for a pair of tweezers, since they are very thin and can easily get into the key hole in 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, it might be worth looking for a set available at auto key fob repair parts stores. They are thin and flat with small hooks that can be placed into the key hole, and then hold onto the damaged part of the key.

Another option is to find a magnetic key hook that can stick to the metal inside the lock and pull it out. This isn't always the best choice as it could get caught in the lock and cause damage. In such a scenario, it is best to call a locksmith.

Some people will try to join the two pieces of their snapped car key together with superglue, as it will help them take it out of the lock. However, this can be very risky as the bits of metal could stick to one another and break apart again later on. It is also crucial not to turn the key, as this can cause further damage to the lock or ignition cylinder. Contact a professional locksmith to replace the broken key right away.

2. Drill a hole

Sometimes a key breaks inside the lock, and even if you have a spare, you might not be able to gain access to your vehicle. A drill may be the best option in these situations.

It is important to make sure that the keyhole is set for [empty] a basic tumbler. If it's not, you won't be able to remove the pins and cause damage to the door or internal lock mechanism.

It is also important to know that you'll be drilling through the outer layer of plastic and the inner metal layer. A small drill bit will suffice to penetrate these layers, but you need to be sure to not go further than this. If you drill too deeply, it can damage the internal wiring harness or cause the drill to become stuck.

Wearing a mask or protective equipment is also recommended when using drilling. This will stop dust and dirt from entering your lungs.

It is also a good idea in the event that the key fragment is broken and remains stuck in the lock, to keep pliers and tweezers in your bag. If the key is extending enough to be able to be grasped with pliers and tweezers, it will be enough to get it out. If not, you'll need to use an instrument such as this to encase it in the lock, and then turn it toward the key to grab and pull it out.

3. Drill a nail

If you cut your car key in half, it could cause you to be in a bind. There are a few solutions to fix it without paying for locksmith. The first option is to use a nail or screw. These can be found in your home or [empty] at a hardware store. But, it is best to look for a nail that is as thin and as long as you can. So you can insert it into the hole and then apply epoxy glue to join the two pieces. It is also important to ensure that the back of the nail is level. This will allow it to fit into the cut slot of the key. This will stop it from moving and potentially breaking again in the future.

4. Super Glue

Many auto owners opt for DIY hacks, such as using super glue to repair a damaged or broken key. This is a risky method. You could cause damage to the lock, and have to pay more money to get a new one.

First, you need to examine the keys that have been damaged and make sure that they are identical in terms of size. This is vital to ensure that the pieces will be properly aligned and that the key fits into the lock once they have been bonded. After that, you can use a piece of sandpaper with fine-grit or a metal file to smooth out the edges on the broken pieces of the key. This will strengthen the glue's bond and reduce the possibility of a key that is loose.

Once you have polished the edges of the broken key then apply a small amount super glue to one of the ends. Use only the smallest amount of super glue, since too much could make the key too heavy. It will then be difficult to fit into the lock. Then, you can carefully place the two broken pieces of the key and press them together. After a few moments, the glue will begin to set and join the key fragments.

A bobby-pin or a paperclip can also be used as a tool to remove a damaged key from a lock. They can be shaped like a pick and inserted into the lock. This technique is particularly helpful when the damage is located within or close to the keyway or the ignition hole.

Another thing to remember is that if the damaged car key is equipped with electronic components and requires an entirely new key from the dealership or a professional locksmith. This is because the key will have to be programmed using a new code and the chip will need to be replaced. If the shell or metal part of the key fails, you will need to have a new cut. It is not necessary to reprogramme or replace the electronic components.