10 Tips To Build Your Key Repair Empire
How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're heading to work in rush, and put your car keys into the ignition. Then you try to turn it, and it snaps off from the lock!
Luckily, there are several ways you can attempt to solve the issue before calling a locksmith. Here are a few quick fixes:1. Super Glue.
1. Contact a locksmith
A damaged key in the lock is one of the most unpleasant things a vehicle owner could face. This is especially frustrating when the driver is trying to get somewhere, or to drop off a kid. In this case it is essential to act quickly and try to get the key out of the way.
It is recommended to contact an expert locksmith for this job for this job, as they will be able to use the appropriate tools to remove the broken key and not cause damage to the lock. Many people look around in their vehicle to find something light and sturdy such as a paperclip or toothpick, but this isn't likely to work as it's too heavy to enter the lock.
The best way to do this is to use a pair of tweezers. They are thin and easily fit into the lock. They should be strong enough to grasp the broken piece of a key and pull it out. If you don't have tweezers, it's worth looking for a set that is sold at auto parts stores. They are thin, flat 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 in the lock and then pull it out. This is not always the best option as it can get caught under the lock and cause further damage. In such a scenario it is recommended to contact locksmith.
Some people try to join the two pieces of their car key that have snapped together using superglue, thinking that this can help them to remove it from the lock. This is a risk because the pieces of metal could get caught and break later. It is essential not to turn the key as it could cause further damage to your lock or the ignition cylinder. Call a professional locksmith to replace the broken key immediately.
2. Drill through a hole
Even having a spare key you may not be able access your vehicle if the key breaks inside the lock. Drilling out the lock may be the best option in these situations.
First, you will want to ensure that the key hole is set to take a basic tumbler car key. If it isn't then you won't be able to drill out the pins without damaging the door, and possibly destroying the internal lock mechanism.
Next, it is important to know that you'll be drilling through the outer plastic layer and an inner layer of metal. A small drill bit will suffice to cut through these layers, but it is important to ensure that you don't go any deeper than that. If you drill too deeply it may harm the wiring harness inside or cause the drill bit to become stuck inside the hole.
It is also recommended to wear a face mask and protective equipment when working using a drill. This will keep dust and dirt from getting into your respiratory system.
It's an excellent idea, in the event that the key fragment is broken and is sticking out of the lock, to keep two pairs of pliers and tweezers in your bag. If the key is protruding 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 like this to wedge it into the lock and then rotate it towards the key to grasp it and take it out.
3. Drill a Nail
If you break your car key in half, it can cause you to be trapped. There are a variety of ways to solve the issue without having to pay an locksmith. The first step is to use a screw or nail. You can find them in your house or at a hardware store. It is best to choose the nail that is 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. It is also important to ensure that the nail's back is level. This will allow it to fit into the slot cut in the key. This will stop it from moving and potentially breaking again in future.
4. Super Glue
Many car owners resort to DIY tricks like using super glue to try and fix a broken car key, but this is not a safe thing to do. repair car key could end up ruining the lock and needing to spend more money on getting a replacement from the dealership or locksmith.
It is important to examine the keys that have been damaged first, and ensure that they are the same size. This is crucial to ensure that all pieces of the glue are aligned properly and that the key fits in the lock after they have been joined. 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 help the glue bond stronger and decrease the chance of a loose key in the future.
Once you have polished the edges of the damaged key then apply a small amount super glue to one of the ends. Only apply a small amount of super glue, as too much could make the key too thick. It will then be difficult to fit into the lock. After that, carefully align the two pieces of the key and press them together. After some time, the glue will start to set and bind the key fragments.
Another common household item that can be used to help to remove a damaged car key is a bobby pin, which can be shaped into a pick-like tool and put into the lock. This method is particularly helpful if the break is near or inside the keyway or lock hole.
Another important thing to note is that if the damaged car key is equipped with electronic components, it will require an entirely new key from the dealer or a professional locksmith. This is because the key will have to be programmed with a brand new code and the key chip needs to be replaced. If the shell or metal part of the key is damaged, you will need to have a new cut. It is not necessary to reprogramme or replace the electronics.