Why Key Repair Is Harder Than You Imagine

How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair

You're on your way to work, in a hurry, and jam your keys in the ignition. Then you try to turn it into a lock, and it snaps in the lock!

There are a few things you could do to fix the problem before contacting an expert locksmith. Here are a few quick solutions.  More about the author . Call an expert locksmith

One of the most devastating things that could happen to a car owner is a broken key in a lock. This situation is even more frustrating if it occurs while the driver is trying to get to work or to drop off the child. In such a situation, it is important to act quickly and try to release the stuck key.

It is recommended to contact an experienced locksmith for this job for this job, as they will be able to use the right tools to remove the broken key without harm the lock. Many people will have a look around in their vehicle for something thin and rigid like a paperclip, or toothpick, however this usually won't work as it is too thick to be able to get into the lock.

The best solution is to use a pair tweezers. They are thin and are able to easily get inside the lock. They should also be strong enough to hold the damaged part of the key and pull it out. If you don't have tweezers, it might be worth looking for a set that is available at auto parts stores. They are narrow and flat with hooks that are small enough to be inserted into the key hole and then grip onto the broken bit of the key.

A magnetic key hook can be used to stick to the metal inside the lock, and then pull it out. This isn't always the best option since it could be caught under the lock and cause damage. In this situation it is recommended to contact a professional locksmith.

Some people will try to glue the two pieces of their snapped car key together with superglue, as this can help them to take it out of the lock. However, this could be extremely risky since the pieces of metal could snag on to one another and fall apart later. It is also crucial not to turn the key because this could cause damage to the lock or ignition cylinder. It is recommended to contact an expert locksmith who will be on hand to take out the broken key and create an immediate replacement.

2. Drill a hole

Sometimes, a key gets damaged inside the lock, and even if you have an extra key, you may not be able to gain access to your vehicle. In these instances drilling the lock is the most effective option.

First, you need to ensure that the key hole is designed to accept a basic tumbler car key. If it's not, you won't have the ability to drill out the pins and cause damage to the door or internal lock mechanism.

It is crucial to remember that you will drill through an outer layer of plastic as well as an inner metal layer. A small drill bit is enough to get through these layers, but it is important to ensure that you don't go any deeper than this. In the event of drilling too deep, it could damage the internal wiring harness or cause the drill to become stuck.

It is also recommended to wear a mask and protective gear while working using drills. This will stop dirt and dust from entering your respiratory system.

It is also a good idea to have a pair of pliers and tweezers available in the event that the broken key is sticking out of the lock. If the key is long enough to be gripped 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 grab and pull it out.

3. Drill a Nail

You may be left in limbo if you break your key in half. There are fortunately some methods to fix it without paying for locksmith. The first method is to utilize a screw or nail. You can find these at home or at the hardware store. It is recommended to look for nails that are as thin and as long as you can. This will allow you to fit it into the hole, and then use epoxy to join the two pieces. It is also good to ensure that the back of the nail is level. This will allow it to fit into the slot in the key. This will prevent it from moving and potentially breaking again in future.

4. Super Glue

Many motorists use DIY hacks, such as using super glue to repair a damaged or broken key. This is a risky method. You could end up damaging the lock, and have to shell out more to replace it.

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

After polishing the edges After polishing the edges, apply a small amount (about the size of a pea) of super glue to the other side. Use only a small amount of super glue, as too much can make the key too thick. It will then be difficult to fit into the lock. After aligning the two pieces of the key that broke, press them together. After a short time, the glue will begin to set and bind together the key fragments.

Another household item that can be used to help remove a damaged car key is a bobby or paperclip pin, which can be shaped into a pick-like device and put into the lock. This method is especially useful when the damage is located in or close to the keyway or ignition hole.

Another important thing to note is that if the broken car key is equipped with electronic components, it will require a new key cut from the dealer or an experienced locksmith. The key must be reprogrammed using a different code and the chip in the key will need to be changed. In contrast, if only the metal or shell of the key breaks it typically requires a new key cut and doesn't require reprogramming or replacing of the electronic components.