How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair

You're in a hurry to get to work and jam your keys into the ignition. Then you try turning it, and it snaps off inside the lock!

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

1. Call a Locksmith

One of the worst things that could happen to a car key repair cost owner is a broken key inside a lock. This situation is even more painful if it occurs when the driver is trying to get to work or to drop off the child. In this case you must act swiftly to try and free the stuck key.

It is best to call an experienced locksmith for this task as they will have the appropriate tools to remove the broken key and not cause damage to the lock. Many people look for something thin and stiff, such as paperclips or toothpicks. But this isn't the best choice since they are too thick to fit in the lock.

The best solution is to search for a pair of tweezers since they are very thin and can easily reach the automotive key repair hole inside 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's worth searching for a set that is sold at auto parts stores. These are flat, narrow and have tiny hooks. They can be put through the keyhole to grasp the broken piece of the key.

A magnetic key hook can be used to stick to the metal in the lock, and then remove it. This isn't always the best option because it could become stuck under the lock and cause further damage to the lock. In such a scenario it is advised to call an expert locksmith.

Some people try to join two pieces of a broken car key with superglue in order to remove it from the lock. However, this is very risky as the bits of metal may cling to each other and then fall apart later. It is also important not to turn the key as this can cause further damage to the lock or ignition cylinder. It is recommended to contact an expert locksmith who will be on hand to take the broken key and create a replacement on the spot.

2. Drill a hole

Even having a spare key you might not be able to access your vehicle if a key is broken inside the lock. The lock could be drilled out. be the best option in these instances.

First, you need to make sure that the key hole is set to take a basic tumbler car key. If it isn't, you won't be able to drill out the pins without damaging the door, and possibly damaging the lock mechanism.

It is crucial to remember that you'll be drilling through an outer plastic layer as well as an inner metal layer. A small drill bit will suffice to get through these layers, Broken Car Key Repair but you must be sure not to go further than this. If you drill too deep it may harm the wiring harness inside or cause the drill bit to get stuck within the hole.

It is also recommended to wear a mask and protective gear when working using a drill. This will prevent dust and dirt from getting into your respiratory system.

In the end, it's recommended to have two pairs of pliers and tweezers available in case the damaged piece of the key is sticking out of the lock. If the key is long enough to be able to be grasped with pliers and tweezers, this will suffice to get it out. If not, you'll need to use a tool such as this to encase it into the lock and then turn it towards the key to grab it and pull it out.

3. Drill a nail

You can be left stranded if you break your key in half. There are a few solutions to fix it without paying for a locksmith. The first step is to use the screw or nail. They can be found in your home or at a local hardware store. However, it is best to try to find the nail that is 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. It is also important to ensure that the back of the nail is flat. This will help it to fit in the cut slot of the key. This will prevent it from moving around and possibly breaking again in the future.

4. Super Glue

Many motorists use DIY hacks, like using super glue to repair a damaged key. This is a risky method. You could damage the lock, and have to pay more money for a replacement.

First, you need to take a look at the keys that are broken and make sure that they are identical in terms of size. This step is crucial to ensure that the glued pieces will be properly aligned and the key will fit into the lock once they have been bonded. After that, use the fine-grit sandpaper or a metal file to smooth the edges on the broken pieces of the key. This will improve the glue's bond and decrease the possibility of a key that is loose.

After finishing the edges, apply a small amount (about an amount of pea-sized) of super glue to one end. Be cautious not to apply too much, because this could cause the key to become too thick and it will 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 seconds the glue will begin to set and join the key pieces together.

A bobby-pin or a paperclip 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 especially useful in the event that the broken part is in or near the keyway or the ignition hole.

Another thing to remember is that if the broken car key has electronic components and requires an entirely new key from the dealer or a professional locksmith. The key will have to be reprogrammed using a new code and the chip in the key will need to be changed. If, however, only the shell or metal portion of the key is damaged the key, it will usually only require a new key cut and doesn't require replacement or reprogramming of electronics.