How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're on your way to work in hurry, and you jam your keys to your car in the ignition. You try to turn it, and it snaps off in the lock!
There are several ways you can fix it before calling a locksmith. Here are a few quick solutions. Super Glue.
1. car key fob repair near me for a locksmith
A damaged key in the lock is one of the most unpleasant things a vehicle owner could face. This can be particularly frustrating if the driver is in a rush to get somewhere, or pick up an infant. In this scenario you must act swiftly to try and get the key out of the way.
Calling an experienced locksmith is the best option as they will have the right tools and know how to take out the broken keys without damaging the lock. A lot of people look around their car to find something light and sturdy like a paperclip or toothpick, however this typically won't work since it is too thick to be able to get into the lock.
The best way to do this is to use a pair of tweezers. They are thin and can easily reach into the lock. key fob repairs near me should also be rigid enough to hold the damaged part of the key and pull it out. If you don't have tweezers, it's worth searching for a set that is sold at auto parts stores. They are narrow, flat and have tiny hooks. They can be put into the keyhole and then take the broken portion of the key.
Another option is to locate a magnetic key hook that can be affixed to the metal inside the lock and be pulled out. This is not always the best option because it could become stuck under the lock and cause further damage to it. In such a scenario it is recommended to call locksmith.
Some people will try to join the two pieces of their broken car key together using superglue, thinking that this can help them 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 essential not to turn the key because it could cause further damage to your lock or the ignition cylinder. It is recommended to contact a professional locksmith who will be able to take out the broken key and create an immediate replacement.
2. Drill a hole
Even with a spare key you may not be able to access your vehicle if the key breaks inside the lock. In these instances, drilling out the lock is the best option.
First, you must ensure that the keyhole is set to accept a basic tumbler key. If it isn't then you won't be able to drill the pins without damaging the door and possibly damaging the lock mechanism.
The next step is to know that you'll be drilling through the outer plastic layer and the inner metal layer. You can drill through these layers using a a small drill bit, but you should not go deeper. If you drill too deeply, it can cause damage to the wiring harness, or cause the drill to stick.
Wearing a mask or protective gear is also recommended when working with a drill. This will stop dust and dirt from getting into your lungs.
It is also a good idea if the broken key piece is sticking out of the lock, to keep two pairs of pliers and tweezers handy. If the key is protruding enough to be able to be grasped with pliers and tweezers this will suffice to get it out. If not, however, you will need to use tools like this one to wedge the tool in the lock, and then turn it towards the key in order to grip it and remove it from the hole.
3. Drill a Nail
You may be left in limbo when you cut your key in half. There are several ways to solve the issue without the expense of locksmith. The first option is to make use of a screw or nail. You can find them in your house or at a hardware store. It is recommended to pick nails that are as thin and as long as you can. You can then insert it into the hole, and then apply epoxy glue to join the two pieces together. It is also good to ensure that the back of the nail is flat. This will allow it to fit into the slot in the key. This will stop it from moving and potentially breaking again in the future.
4. Super Glue
Many car owners tend to make use of DIY techniques like using super glue to repair a broken car key, however this is a risky thing to do. You could end up damaging the lock and needing to shell out more money for replacing it from the dealership or a locksmith.
First, examine the broken keys and ensure that they are identical in terms of size. This step is essential to ensure that all the pieces of the glue are aligned properly and that the key will fit in the lock after they've been joined. Then, using a piece fine-grit paper or a metal filing, smooth out the edges of the broken pieces. This will strengthen the bond of glue and decrease the possibility of a loose key.
After you've polished the edges of the damaged key then apply a small amount of super glue to one of the ends. 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 aligning the two pieces of the key that broke then press them together. After a few moments the glue will begin to set and bond the key fragments.
Another common household item that can be used to extract a broken car key is a paperclip or bobby pin that can be made into a pick-like tool, then placed inside the lock. This technique is especially helpful if the break is near or inside the keyway or ignition lock hole.
Another thing to remember is that if the broken car key has electronic components and requires a new key cut from the dealer or a professional locksmith. The key must be reprogrammed using a different code and the chip inside the key must be replaced. However, if the metal or shell of the key breaks the key, it will usually only require the cutting of a new key and doesn't require any replacement or reprogramming of the electronic components.