The Reasons Key Repair Isn't As Easy As You Imagine

How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair

You're rushing to get your work done and put your keys in the ignition. You try to turn it, and it snaps off inside the lock!

Luckily, there are a few options you can try to fix it before calling a locksmith. Here are some easy fixes. Super Glue.

1. Call an expert locksmith

One of the worst things that could happen to a car owner is a broken key repair Near me key in a lock. This is particularly aggravating when the driver is trying to get somewhere, or drop off a kid. In this situation it is crucial to act swiftly and try to free the stuck key.

It is best to call an experienced locksmith for this job as they will have the correct tools to take out the broken key and not damage the lock. Many people look around their car for something small and rigid like a paperclip or toothpick, however this usually won't work as it's too thick to fit into the lock.

A much better solution is to find an tweezers set, as these are quite thin and easily reach the key hole in the lock. They should also be strong enough to hold the damaged part of the key and then pull it out. If you don't have tweezers then it may be worth looking for keys repair near me extractors that are often sold in auto parts stores. They are thin, flat and have hooks that are small. They can be put in the keyhole and grab the broken part of the key.

Another option is to locate an magnetic key hook that can be affixed to the metal inside the lock and pull it out. This isn't always the best option, as it can sometimes become stuck under the lock and cause further damage to it. In such a situation it is recommended to call a locksmith.

Some people try to join the two pieces of a broken car key with superglue in order to remove it from the lock. However, this could be extremely risky since the pieces of metal may cling to each other and then fall apart later. It is also essential not to turn the key, because this could cause damage to the lock or ignition cylinder. It is recommended to contact a professional locksmith who will be ready to take the broken key and make a replacement on the spot.

2. Drill through a hole

Sometimes, a key gets damaged inside the lock, and even if you have an extra key, you may not be capable of opening the door to your vehicle. Drilling out the lock may be the best solution in these situations.

First, you need to ensure that the key hole is designed to accept a basic tumbler car key. If it isn't, you won't be able to remove the pins without damaging the door, and possibly destroying the internal lock mechanism.

Next, it is important to be aware that you'll be drilling through the outer plastic layer and an inner layer of metal. A small drill bit will suffice to penetrate these layers, but you must ensure that you don't go further than this. If you drill too deeply, it could cause damage to the wiring harness or cause the drill bit to get stuck inside the hole.

It is also recommended to wear a face mask and protective gear when working using drilling. This will keep the dust and dirt from getting into your lung.

Finally, it is recommended to have pliers and tweezers on hand in case the broken key is sticking out of the lock. If there is enough of the key protruding to be grasped by tweezers, or pliers, this should suffice to pull it out of the lock. If not, however, you will need to use a tool such as this one to encase the tool inside the lock, and then turn it towards the key to grasp it and remove it from the hole.

3. Drill a nail

If you cut your car key in half, it can cause you to be in a bind. There are several ways to solve the issue without having to pay locksmith. The first method is to utilize a screw or nail. These can be found in your home or in a hardware store. It is best to choose the nail that is as thin and as long as possible. You can then insert it into the hole, and then use epoxy glue to join the two pieces together. It is also good to ensure that the nail's back is flat. This will help it to fit in the cut slot of the key. This will stop it from moving, and could even prevent it from breaking again in the future.

4. Super Glue

A lot of motorists make use of DIY tricks like using super glue to attempt to fix a damaged car key, however this is not a safe thing to do. You could end up damaging the lock, and then have to shell out more to get a new one.

You need to check the keys that are broken first and make sure they're the same size. This is vital to ensure that the glued parts will be properly aligned and the key will fit into the lock once they have been bonded. Then, using a piece of fine-grit paper or a metal filing, smooth the edges of the damaged pieces. This will strengthen the bond of glue and decrease the chance of a loose key.

After you've polished the edges of the broken key, apply a small amount of super glue to one of the ends. Use only a small amount of super glue, since too much could make the key too large. It will then be difficult to fit into the lock. Then, carefully align the two pieces of the key and press them together. After some time the glue will begin to set and bind the key fragments together.

A bobby-pin or a paperclip can also be used to remove a broken key from a lock. They can be cut like a pick and inserted into the lock. This method is particularly helpful if the break is near or inside the keyway or ignition lock hole.

Another important point to keep in mind is that if the damaged car key has electronic components that require the cutting of a new key by the dealership or a professional locksmith. The key will need to be reprogrammed with a different code, and the chip inside the key will need to be changed. If, however, only the metal or shell 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.