How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair You're headed to work in a hurry, and jam your car keys into the ignition. You try turning the key, but it snaps in the lock. Luckily, there are a few ways you can resolve the issue before calling a locksmith. Here are some easy fixes. Super Glue. 1. Call an expert locksmith One of the most devastating things that could happen to an owner of a vehicle is a broken key in locks. This situation is even more painful if it occurs when the driver is hurrying to get somewhere or to drop off an infant. In such a situation it is crucial to act quickly and attempt to get the key out of the way. It is best to call an experienced locksmith for this job as they will be able to use the correct tools to take out the broken key without damage the lock. Many people will look for something thin and stiff like a toothpick or paperclip. However, this is not the best solution as they are too large to fit inside 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 also be strong enough to grasp the broken part of the key and then pull it out. If you don't have tweezers, then it may be worth trying to locate a set of key extractors, which are usually found in auto parts stores. These are flat, narrow and have small hooks. They can be put through the keyhole to grasp the broken piece of the key. Another possible solution is to find a magnetic key hook that can attach to the metal in the lock and be pulled out. This isn't always the best option as it could be caught under a lock and cause more damage. In this case, it is best to call locksmith. Some people attempt to glue the two pieces of their broken car key together with superglue, as it will help them remove it from the lock. However, this is extremely risky since the pieces of metal may cling to each other and then break apart later. It is also important not to turn the key as this can cause further damage to the lock or the ignition cylinder. It is best to contact an expert locksmith who will be ready to take the damaged key and then make a replacement on the spot. 2. Drill through a hole Even having a spare key you may not be able access your vehicle if a key is broken inside the lock. In these cases drilling out the lock is the best choice. First, you will want to make sure that the key hole is set to accept a standard tumbler car key. If it's not then you won't be able to drill the pins without damaging the door and possibly destroying the internal lock mechanism. It is important to keep in mind that you'll drill through an outer plastic layer as well as an inner metal layer. You can drill through these layers using a tiny drill bits, but you should not go any further. Drilling too deep can damage the internal wiring harness, or cause the drill to stick. Wearing a protective mask or equipment is also recommended when using a drill. This will prevent dust and dirt from entering your respiratory system. It is also an excellent idea to keep two pairs of pliers and tweezers on hand in case the broken key is sticking out of the lock. If the key is protruding enough to be held by pliers and tweezers, this is enough to pull it out. If not, you will require tools like this one to wedge the tool inside the lock and then turn it toward the key to grasp it and pull it out of the hole. 3. Drill a nail If you cut your car key in half, it can cause you to be trapped. Luckily, there are car key repair service to fix it, without having to pay for locksmith. The first way is to utilize a screw or nail. These can be found in your home or at a local hardware store. It is recommended to select a nail as thin and long as possible. This way you can fit it into the hole, and then use epoxy to connect the two parts together. Make sure that the back of the nails are flat. This will allow it to fit into the slot in the key. This will prevent it from moving around and breaking in the future. 4. Super Glue Many motorists make use of DIY hacks such as using super glue to repair a broken car key, however this is not a safe way to go. You could end up ruining the lock and needing to pay more for finding a replacement at the dealer or a locksmith. First, you need to examine the keys that have been damaged and make sure that they are in terms of size. This step is crucial to ensure that the glued parts are properly aligned and the key will fit into the lock once they have been bonded. Then, using a piece fine-grit paper or a metal filing, smooth the edges of the broken pieces. This will strengthen the bond of glue and decrease the likelihood of a future key that is loose. After finishing the edges, apply the smallest amount (about the size of a pea) of super glue to the other side. Be careful not to apply too much, as this can cause the key to become too thick and it will be difficult to fit into the lock. Then, carefully align the two pieces of the key and press them together. After a short time, the glue will begin to set and bond the key fragments. Another household item that can be used to help to remove a damaged car key is a bobby pin that can be made into a pick-like tool and put into the lock. This technique is particularly helpful when the damage is located within or close to the keyway or the ignition hole. A broken car key with electronic components will need an entirely new key from the dealer or a professional locksmith. The key must be reprogrammed using a different code and the chip inside the key must be changed. If the metal or shell of the key fails and needs to be replaced, you'll need to have a new cut. It is not necessary to reprogramme or replace electronics.
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