How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair

You're in a hurry to get your work done and put your keys in the ignition. Then you try to turn it, and it snaps off in the lock!

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

1. Contact a locksmith

A broken key in the lock is one of the most frustrating things a car owner can experience. This can be even more frustrating if it occurs while the driver is trying to get to work or drop off a child. In this situation, you should act quickly to attempt to free the stuck key.

It is best to call an experienced locksmith for this task as they can use the correct tools to take out the broken key without cause damage to the lock. Many people will have a look around the vehicle for something thin and rigid like a paperclip or toothpick, but these usually won't work as it's too heavy to be able to get into the lock.

The best option is to find an tweezers set, since they are very thin and can easily reach the key hole inside the lock. They should also be sturdy enough to grasp the broken part of the key and then pull it out. If you don't own tweezers then it may be worth trying to locate keys extractors that are often sold in auto parts stores. These are flat, narrow and have tiny hooks. They can be put into the keyhole and then take the broken portion of the key.

A magnetic key hook can be used to adhere to the metal of the lock and then remove it. This is not always the best option as it could get caught in the lock and cause further damage. In this case, it's best to call an experienced locksmith.

Some people attempt to stick the two pieces of their snapped car key together using superglue, thinking that it will help them get it out of the lock. However, this can be extremely risky because the pieces of metal may cling to one another and break apart later. It is also important not to turn the key since this could cause further damage to the lock or the ignition cylinder. It is better to call an expert locksmith who will be ready to take out the damaged key and then make a replacement on the spot.

2. Drill into a hole

Even having a spare key you may not be able to access your vehicle if a key is broken inside the lock. A drill may be the best solution in these situations.

The first step is to make sure that the key hole is set to take a basic tumbler car key. If it isn't then you won't be able to remove the pins without damaging the door, and possibly destroying the internal lock mechanism.

It is important to keep in mind that you'll be drilling through an outer layer of plastic as well as an inner layer of metal. You can drill through these layers using a a small drill bit, but you shouldn't go any deeper. If you drill too deep, it could damage the internal wiring harness or cause the drill bit to become stuck in the hole.

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

It's also a good idea, when the broken piece of key is sticking out of the lock, to keep two pairs of pliers and tweezers handy. If there is enough of the key sticking out to be able to grasp with tweezers or pliers, this should be sufficient to get it out of the lock. If there isn't, however you'll need to use a tool such as this one to insert the tool in the lock and then rotate it toward the key to grasp it and remove it from the hole.

3. Drill a Nail

If you break your car key in half, it could cause you to be trapped. Luckily, there are some methods to fix it, without having to pay for a locksmith. The first method is to utilize a screw or nail. These can be found in your home or at a local hardware store. It is best to choose nails that are 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. It is also good to ensure that the back of the nail is level. This will allow it to fit into the slot cut in the key. This will stop it from moving and possibly breaking again in the future.

4. Super Glue

Many auto owners resort to DIY hacks, such as using super glue to repair a damaged key. This is a risky method. You could end up damaging the lock and have to spend more money on finding a replacement at the dealer or locksmith.

You must examine the broken keys first and make sure they are the same size. This step is essential to ensure that all the glued pieces are aligned correctly and that the key fits inside the lock once they have been joined. Then, using a piece fine-grit paper or a metal filing, smooth the edges of the broken pieces. This will help make the glue stick better and lessen the risk of a key becoming loose in the future.

After finishing the edges after polishing, apply a small amount (about a pea-sized amount) of super glue to one side. Only apply a small amount of super glue, as excessive amounts can make the key too large. It will then be difficult to fit into the lock. After lining up the two pieces of the broken key then press them together. After a few seconds the glue will begin to set and join the key fragments together.

Another common household item that can be used to help remove a damaged car key is a paperclip or bobby pin, which can be shaped into a pick-like tool, then put into the lock. This technique is particularly useful in the event that the broken part is within or close to the keyway or the ignition hole.

Another important thing to note is that if the broken car key has electronic components that require an entirely new key from the dealership 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 metal or shell of the key is damaged the key repair shops near me, it will usually only require the cutting of a new key and doesn't require any reprogramming or replacing of the electronics.