10 Tips To Build Your Key Repair Empire
How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're in a hurry to get your work done and put your keys in the ignition. You try to turn it into a lock, and it snaps in the lock!
Luckily, there are a few ways you can fix it before calling a locksmith. Here are some quick fixes:: 1. Super Glue.
1. Call a Locksmith
One of the most devastating things that can happen to a car owner is a damaged key in the lock. This is especially frustrating if the driver is in a rush to get somewhere, or to drop off an infant. In this situation it is essential to act quickly and attempt to free the stuck key.
A locksmith with experience is the best option because they'll have the right tools and know how to get rid of the keys that are broken without damaging the lock. A lot of people look around the vehicle to find something light and sturdy such as a paperclip or toothpick, however this isn't likely to work as it's too thick to be able to get into the lock.
The best solution is to look for an tweezers set, since they are very thin and can easily get into the key hole inside the lock. They should be rigid enough to grasp the damaged part of a key and then pull it out. If you don't have tweezers it might be worth looking for keys extractors that are often available in auto parts stores. They are thin, flat and have tiny hooks. They can be inserted into the keyhole and then grab the broken part of the key.
A magnetic key hook can be used to stick to the metal in the lock and then pull it out. This isn't always the best choice as it could be caught under the lock and cause further damage. In this case it is recommended to contact an expert locksmith.
Some people will try to stick the two pieces of their snapped car key together using superglue, thinking that it will help them remove it from the lock. However, this is very risky as the bits of metal could stick to each other and then fall apart later. It is also important not to turn the key since this could cause further damage to the lock or the ignition cylinder. Call a professional locksmith to replace the broken key on the spot.
2. Drill a hole
Even with a spare key, you might not be able to access your vehicle if a key is broken inside the lock. In car key fob repair drilling out the lock is the best choice.
The first step is to make sure that the key hole is designed to take a basic tumbler car key. If it's not there, you won't be able to drill the pins out and damage the door or internal lock mechanism.
The next step is to understand that you will be drilling through the outer layer of plastic and an inner layer of metal. A small drill bit is enough to cut through these layers, but you need to be sure not to go any deeper than this. If you drill too deeply it may harm the wiring harness inside or cause the drill bit to get stuck within the hole.
Wearing a mask or protective equipment is also recommended when using drills. This will stop dirt and dust from entering your lung.
It is also a good idea in the event that the key fragment is broken and is still sticking out of the lock, to keep a pair pliers and tweezers in your bag. If there is enough of the key to be able to grasp with tweezers or pliers, this could be sufficient to get it out of the lock. If not, you'll have to use an instrument like this to wedge it in the lock, and then rotate it towards the key to grasp it and take it out.
3. Drill a nail
If you smash your car key in half, it can cause you to be in a bind. There are some ways to fix it, without having to pay for a locksmith. The first step is to use screws or nails. You can find these at home or in a hardware store. It is recommended to try to find nails that are as thin as it can be and as long as is possible. This way you can fit it into the hole and then use epoxy to join the two pieces together. Make sure that the back of the nails is flat. This will allow it to fit into the slot cut in the key. This will stop it from moving and possibly breaking again in the future.
4. Super Glue
Many auto owners opt for DIY hacks, such as using super glue, to fix a broken key. This is a risky practice. You could end up ruining the lock and needing to pay more for getting a replacement from the dealer or locksmith.
First, you need to take a look at the broken keys and make sure they are in terms of size. This is vital to ensure that the glued parts are properly aligned and the key will fit into the lock once they are bonded together. Then, using a piece of fine-grit paper or a metal filing, smooth out the edges of the broken pieces. This will improve the glue's bond and reduce the likelihood of a future key that is loose.
After polishing the edges After polishing the edges, apply only a small amount (about a pea-sized amount) of super glue on the other side. Use only tiny amounts of super glue, as too much could make the key too heavy. It will then be difficult to fit into the lock. After lining up the two pieces of the broken key and pressing them together, you can press them. After some time the glue will begin to set and bind the key pieces together.
A bobby-pin or a paperclip can also be used to extract a broken key from the lock. They can be shaped like a pick and then inserted into the lock. This technique is especially helpful if the break is near or within the keyway or lock hole.
Another important thing to note is that if your car key has electronic components that require a new key cut from the dealer or an experienced locksmith. The key will need to be reprogrammed with a different code and the chip in the key will need to be changed. However, if the shell or metal portion of the key is damaged it typically requires an entirely new key cut, and doesn't require any reprogramming or replacing of the electronic components.