What Key Repair Will Be Your Next Big Obsession?
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How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're on your way to work in a hurry, and jam your keys to your car in the ignition. You try turning the key however it locks. the lock.
There are a few ways you can attempt to solve the issue before calling a locksmith. Here are some easy fixes. Super Glue.
1. Call for a locksmith
One of the worst things that could happen to an owner of a vehicle is a broken key inside the lock. This situation is even more painful if it occurs when the driver is rushing to get somewhere or to drop off an infant. In this scenario it is imperative to act fast to try to free the stuck key.
It is recommended to call an experienced locksmith for this task as they can use the appropriate tools to remove the broken key without harm the lock. Many people will have a look around the vehicle for something small and rigid like a paperclip, or toothpick, but this typically won't work since it is too thick to be able to get into the lock.
A much better solution is to search for an tweezers set, because they are thin and easily reach the key hole in the lock. They should be strong enough to grasp the damaged part of a key and pull it out. If you don't have tweezers, then it may be worth trying to locate key extractors, which are usually found in auto parts stores. They are narrow and flat with hooks that are small enough to be inserted into the key hole and grip on the broken piece of the key.
A magnetic key hook can be used to attach to the metal of the lock, and then pull it out. This isn't always the best option as it can get caught under the lock and cause damage. In this instance it is best to contact an experienced locksmith.
Some people attempt to glue the two pieces of their snapped car key together using superglue, thinking that it will help them get it out of the lock. However, this could be very risky as the bits of metal may cling to each other and then fall apart later. It is essential not to turn the key, as this could cause further damage to your lock or the ignition cylinder. It is best to contact a professional locksmith who will be able to remove the damaged key and then make a replacement on the spot.
2. Drill a Hole
Even having a spare key you may not be able access your vehicle if a key breaks inside the lock. A drill may be the best solution in these instances.
The first step is to ensure that the key hole is designed to take a basic tumbler car key. If it's not, you won't be able to drill out the pins without damaging the door, and potentially destroying the lock mechanism.
Next, it is important to be aware that you will be drilling through the outer layer of plastic and an inner metal layer. You can drill through these layers with a small drill bit, however, you should not go deeper. If you drill too deeply it may damage the internal wiring harness or cause the drill bit to stick inside the hole.
Wearing a mask or other protective equipment is also recommended when working with drills. This will prevent dust and dirt from entering your lungs.
It is also an excellent idea to keep two pairs of pliers and tweezers on hand in case the damaged key is sticking out of the lock. If there is enough of the key sticking out to be grasped by tweezers, or pliers, this should suffice to pull it out of the lock. If there isn't, however you'll require tools like this one to encase the tool inside the lock and then turn it toward the key to grasp it and take it out of the hole.
3. Drill a nail
If you cut your car key in half, it can cause you to be trapped. There are a number of options to fix the issue without having to hire an locksmith. The first thing you can do is use a screw or nail. They are available at home or at a hardware store. It is recommended to select the nail that is as thin and long as you can. This way, you can place it into the hole and then use epoxy to link the two pieces together. It is also good to ensure that the back of the nail is level. This will allow it to fit into the slot cut in the key. This will keep it from moving, and could even prevent it from breaking key repair near me again in future.
4. Super Glue
A lot of car owners tend to resort to DIY techniques such as using super glue to attempt to fix a damaged car key, however this is a risky way to go. You could cause damage to the lock, and then have to shell out more money to get a new one.
It is important to examine the keys that are broken first, and ensure that they are the same size. This is vital to ensure that the glued pieces will be aligned properly and the key will fit into the lock after they have been bonded. Then, using a piece fine-grit paper or a metal filing, smooth the edges of the broken pieces. This will help make the glue bond better and decrease the chance of a loose key in the future.
After finishing the edges, apply the smallest amount (about an amount of pea-sized) of super glue on one side. Be careful not to use too much, as this could cause the key to become too thick and will have difficulty fitting into the lock. After lining up the two pieces of the key that broke, press them together. After a short time, the glue will begin to set and bind to the key pieces.
Another household item that can be used to remove a damaged car key is a bobby pin that can be made into a pick-like device and put into the lock. This method is especially useful in the event that the broken part is within or near the keyway or the ignition hole.
Another thing to remember is that if the damaged car key is equipped with electronic components that require an entirely new key by the dealership or an experienced locksmith. This is because the key will have to be programmed with a new code and the key chip will need to be replaced. If only the metal or shell of the key breaks and needs to be replaced, you'll need to get a new cut. You don't have to reprogramme or replace the electronics.