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How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're heading to work, in rush, and put your keys to your car in the ignition. You try to turn the key but it is unable to get into the lock.
There are a few ways you can attempt to resolve the issue before calling a locksmith. Here are a few easy fixes:: 1. Super Glue.
1. Contact an expert locksmith
A broken key in the lock is one of the worst things a car owner could experience. This situation is even more difficult if it happens while the driver is trying to get somewhere or to drop off the child. In this situation it is imperative to act fast to try and get the key out of the way.
A locksmith with experience is the best choice, as they will have the proper tools and know how to remove the broken keys without damaging the lock. Many people are looking for something thin and stiff such as a toothpick or paperclip. However, this is not the best choice since they are too large to fit inside the lock.
The best way to do this is to use a pair of tweezers. They are small and easily fit inside the lock. They should also be sturdy enough to hold the damaged part of the key and then pull it out. If you don't own tweezers, it's worth looking for a set that is sold at auto parts stores. They are thin and flat with hooks that are small enough to be placed into the key hole and then grip on the broken piece of the key.
A magnetic key hook can be used to attach to the metal in the lock, and then pull it out. This isn't always a good idea, as it can sometimes get caught under the lock and cause further damage to it. In this instance it is best to contact an experienced locksmith.
Some people try to join two pieces of a broken car key using superglue order to take it out of the lock. However, this can be very risky as the bits of metal could snag on to one another and fall apart later. It is also important not to turn the key, as this can cause further damage to the lock or ignition cylinder. Contact a professional locksmith to replace the broken key right away.
2. Drill through a hole
Even with a spare key you might not be able to access your vehicle if a key is broken inside the lock. In these situations drilling the lock is the best option.
The first step is to make sure that the key hole is designed to accept a standard tumbler car key. If it's not then you won't have the ability to drill the pins out and damage the door or internal lock mechanism.
It is important to note that you will drill through an outer plastic layer as well as an inner metal layer. A small drill bit will suffice to cut through these layers, but it is important to be sure to not go further than this. If you drill too deep, it could harm the wiring harness inside 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 with drilling. This will stop dust and dirt from entering your respiratory system.
It is also a good idea when the broken piece of key is still sticking out of the lock, to have 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, this will suffice to get it out. If not you'll require tools like this one to encase the tool inside the lock and then rotate it towards the key to grip and remove it from the hole.
3. Drill auto key repair
If you cut your car key in half, it could leave you trapped. There are several ways to solve the issue without having to pay a locksmith. The first step is to use the screw or nail. You can find these at home or at the hardware store. However, it is best to search for nails that are as thin and as long as you can. You can then insert it into the hole and then use epoxy glue to join the two pieces together. It is also good to make sure the nail's back is level. This will allow it to fit into the slot in the key. This will prevent it from moving, and could even prevent it from breaking again in future.
4. Super Glue
Many car owners tend to resort to DIY hacks like using super glue to repair a broken car key, however this is a dangerous way to go. You could damage the lock, and then have to pay more money to get a new one.
You must examine the keys that have been damaged first, and ensure that they are of the same size. This step is essential to ensure that all glued pieces are aligned correctly and that the key will fit inside the lock once they've been bonded. Then, using a piece of fine-grit paper or a metal filing, smooth out the edges of the broken pieces. This will help the glue bond better and decrease the chance of a key falling loose in the future.
Once you have polished the edges of the damaged key, apply a small amount super glue to one of the ends. Be careful not to apply too much, because this could cause the key to become too heavy and may be difficult to fit into the lock. After lining up the two pieces of the broken key, press them together. After a few seconds the glue will begin to set and bond the key pieces together.
Another household item that can be used to help extract a broken car key is a bobby pin, which can be shaped into a pick-like device and inserted in the lock. This technique is especially helpful in the event that the broken part is close or inside the keyway or ignition lock hole.
A car key that has been damaged with electronic components will need a new key from the dealer 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 only the metal or shell of the key is damaged, you will need to replace the cut. You don't have to reprogramme or replace electronics.