15 Unexpected Facts About Key Repair That You Never Known
Wiki Article
How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're in a hurry to get your work done and you put your keys into the ignition. You try to turn the key but it is unable to get into the lock.
Luckily, there are a few options you can resolve the issue before calling a locksmith. Here are a few quick solutions. Super Glue.
1. Contact a locksmith
One of the worst things that can happen to the owner of a car is a broken key in a lock. This is especially frustrating if it occurs while the driver is rushing to get to work or to drop off a child. In this case it is crucial to act swiftly and try to free the stuck key.
A locksmith with experience is the best option because they'll have the right tools and know how to remove the keys that are broken without damaging the lock. Many people look for something thin and stiff, such as toothpicks or paperclips. However, this is not the best solution as they are too thick to fit into the lock.
The best option is to find a pair of tweezers because they are thin and can easily get into the key hole inside the lock. They should also be strong enough to grasp the broken part of the key and pull it out. If you don't own tweezers, it might be worth searching for a set that is sold at auto parts stores. They are thin, flat and have hooks that are small. They can be inserted into the keyhole and then grasp the broken piece of the key.
Another possible solution is to find an magnetic key hook that will attach to the metal in the lock and be pulled out. This isn't always the best option since it can get caught under the lock and cause damage. In this instance it is best to contact a professional locksmith.
Some people try to join two pieces of a broken car key using superglue in order to take it out of the lock. However, this could be very risky as the bits of metal could snag on to one another and break apart later. It is also crucial not to turn the key, as this can cause further damage to the lock or ignition cylinder. It is better to call a professional locksmith who will be ready to take the damaged key and then make an immediate replacement.
2. Drill a hole
Even with a spare key, you may not be able access your vehicle if a key breaks inside the lock. A drill may be the best option in these instances.
The first step is to make sure that the key hole is set up to take a basic tumbler car key. If it's not then you won't be able to drill out the pins without damaging the door and possibly destroying the internal lock mechanism.
It is important to note that you'll be drilling through an outer layer of plastic as well as an inner metal layer. You can drill through these layers with a small drill bit, but you shouldn't go any deeper. If you drill too deep it could cause damage to the wiring harness or cause the drill bit to become stuck in the hole.
Wearing a mask or protective equipment is recommended when using a drill. This will keep dirt and dust from entering your respiratory system.
It's also a good idea, when the broken piece of key remains stuck in the lock, to keep pliers and tweezers handy. If the key is extending enough to be held by tweezers and pliers, then this will suffice to get it out. If not, you'll have to use a tool like this to wedge it into the lock and then turn it towards the key to grab and take broken car key repair it out.
3. Drill a nail
You can be left stranded when you cut your key in half. There are several ways to fix the issue without having to hire locksmith. The first thing you can do is to use screws or nails. They are available at home or at the hardware store. It is recommended to search for the nail that is as thin and as long as you can. This way you can fit it in the hole and then use epoxy to join the two parts together. It is also good to make sure the back of the nail is level. This will make it easier to fit into the cut slot of the key. This will prevent it from moving and possibly breaking again in future.
4. Super Glue
Many motorists resort to DIY hacks like using super glue repair a broken car key, but this is a risky way to go. You could cause damage to the lock and be forced to shell out more to replace it.
It is important to examine the keys that are broken first and make sure they are the same size. This is essential to ensure that the glued pieces will be aligned properly and that the key fits into the lock after they have been bonded. Then, using a piece fine-grit paper or a metal filing, smooth out the edges of the damaged pieces. This will help make the glue bond stronger and lessen the risk of a key becoming loose in the future.
After you have polished the edges of the damaged key and polished them, apply a small amount of super glue to one of the ends. Be cautious not to apply too much glue, as this could cause the key to become too thick and may be difficult to fit into the lock. Then, carefully place the two broken pieces of the key and press them together. After a few seconds the glue will begin to set and bind the key fragments together.
Another household item that can be used to remove a damaged car key is a bobby or paperclip pin that can be made into a pick-like tool, then placed inside the lock. This technique is particularly helpful when the damage is located within or close to the keyway or the ignition hole.
A car key that has been damaged with electronic components will need an entirely new key from the dealer or a professional locksmith. The key will have to be reprogrammed using a new code and the chip inside the key will need to be replaced. However, if the shell or metal portion of the key is damaged, it usually just requires an entirely new key cut, and doesn't require reprogramming or replacing of the electronic components.