You're on your way to work, in a hurry, and jam your car keys into the ignition. You try to turn it, and it snaps off from the lock!
There are a few things you can do to solve the issue before contacting an experienced locksmith. Here are a few easy fixes:1. Super Glue.
1. Call a Locksmith
A damaged key in the lock is among the most frustrating things a car owner could face. This is particularly aggravating when the driver is in a rush to get somewhere, or pick up an infant. In such a situation it is essential to act swiftly and try to free the stuck key.
It is best to call an experienced locksmith for this job, because he or she will be able to use the right tools to remove the broken key without cause damage to the lock. Many people will look for something thin and stiff, such as paperclips or toothpicks. But, this is not the best solution as they are too large to fit inside the lock.
The best option is to use a pair of tweezers. They are thin and easily fit inside the lock. They should be able to grab the broken part of a key, and then pull it out. If you don't have tweezers, it might be worth searching for a set available at auto parts stores. They are thin, flat and have small hooks. They can be inserted through the keyhole to grasp the broken piece of the key.
A magnetic key hook can be used to stick to the metal inside the lock, and then pull it out. This is not always a good idea because it could become stuck under the lock and cause further damage to the lock. In this case it is recommended to contact an experienced locksmith.
Some people attempt to glue together the two pieces of a damaged car key using superglue order to take it out of the lock. However, this could be extremely risky since the pieces of metal may cling to each other and then break apart again later on. It is also important 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 on hand to remove the broken key and create a replacement on the spot.
2. Drill a Hole
Even with a spare key you may not be able access your vehicle if a key is broken inside the lock. In these situations drilling out the lock is the most effective option.
You will first want to make sure the keyhole is positioned to accept a basic tumbler key. If it's not there, you won't be able to drill the pins out and damage the door or internal lock mechanism.
It is also important to understand that you'll be drilling through the outer layer of plastic and an inner metal layer. A small drill bit is sufficient to cut through these layers, but you must ensure that you don't go any deeper than this. In the event of drilling too deep, it could cause damage to the wiring harness, or cause the drill to snag.
It is also recommended to wear a mask and protective gear while working using drills. This will prevent dust and dirt from entering your lungs.
It's also a good idea if the broken key piece is sticking out of the lock, to have two pairs of pliers and tweezers at hand. If there is enough of the key protruding to be able to grasp with tweezers or pliers, this should be sufficient to get it out of the lock. If not, you'll need to use a tool like this to wedge it in the lock, and then turn it toward the key to grasp it and pull it out.
3. Drill a Nail
You can be left stranded when you cut your key in half. There are a variety of ways to solve the issue without having to hire locksmith. The first method is to use a nail or screw. These can be found in your home or at a local hardware store. It is recommended to pick the nail that is as thin and as long as you can. car key repair service can put it into the hole, and then apply epoxy glue to join the two pieces. It is also important to ensure that the nail's back is level. This will allow it to fit into the slot in the key. This will stop it from moving and potentially breaking again in the future.
4. Super Glue
A lot of car owners make use of DIY techniques like using super glue to repair a broken car key, but this is not a safe option to make. You could cause damage to the lock and be forced to shell out more money to replace it.
First, take a look at the keys that have been damaged and ensure that they are in terms of size. This step is essential to ensure that all pieces of the glue are aligned properly and that the key will fit in 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 improve the glue's bond and reduce the possibility of a loose key.
After you have polished the edges of the broken key then apply a small amount of super glue to one of the ends. Be careful not to use too much glue, as this could cause the key to become too heavy and it will be difficult to fit into the lock. After aligning the two pieces of the broken key and pressing them together, you can press them. After a few minutes, the glue will begin to set and join together the key fragments.
Another common household item that can be used to extract a broken car key is a bobby pin which can be cut into a pick-like tool and put into the lock. This technique is especially helpful when the damage is close to or within the keyway or lock hole.
Another important thing to note is that if the broken car key is equipped with electronic components that require the cutting of a new key by the dealership or a professional locksmith. This is because the key needs to be programmed with a new code and the key chip must be replaced. If the shell or metal part of the key breaks and needs to be replaced, you'll need to replace the cut. You don't have to reprogramme or replace the electronics.
