How to Repair Broken Car Keys
You need a quick solution in the event that your car key is damaged. You can either wait for the dealer to give you a replacement which is a hassle, or find alternative ways to get around, such as using public transportation or asking friends for rides.
If you have the proper tools, you can perform some DIY fixes. You can use penetrating oils and needle-nosed pliers.
Damage Assessment
It's a nightmare to get into your car and realize that the ignition key is broken. It's an issue that could happen to anyone, and can be stressful if you're in the rush to get to your destination.
The first thing you need to do is take an exhale and try not to panic. Staying calm will allow you to make informed decisions and avoid further harm.
Examine the key you broke to determine which parts are still intact, and how much of it is inside the lock or ignition cylinder. If the damaged part is inside the lock, you can spray a lubricant such as WD-40 over the area to loosen it and make it easier to remove. If the broken part is located in the ignition, you'll need to remove it using the special tool called an extractor for keys.
If the key is in the key ring, you can try to bend it back using pliers. This can be a difficult task, especially in the event of a break near a connector. If you're unable to bend it back into place then you can make use of a paperclip to grab the end of the key and pull straight outward.
If you try to force the key into the ignition, it could cause more damage. It may become impossible to remove. If you're unable to remove the damaged key, you should seek out a professional locksmith, or visit your local car dealership.
There are a variety of hacks available online that claim to fix damaged keys to cars, but some of them can actually cause the problem to get worse. If you try to remove a damaged car key using a screwdriver it could force the key further into the ignition. It could even damage the lock. To avoid this, do not insert anything other than a device specifically designed to remove keys into the keyhole.
Removing the Broken Part
Car keys are brittle A slight jolt or excessive use can cause them to break inside the ignition. This kind of issue can be difficult to fix without the help of an expert locksmith. The attempt to repair the broken key yourself may result in more damage. Super glue or other hacks should not be used because they are difficult to remove and may cause further damage to the ignition cylinder.
It's also a bad choice to use a magnet to remove the broken key. Magnets can damage the electrical components of the ignition cylinder and make it more difficult to get the damaged key out. Another mistake that is common can lead to breaking the key. This happens when you use excessive force or perform sudden movements to turn the key in your car.
If the key fragment is visible the pliers or tweezers could be used to grip it and pull it out. If the key is stuck in the ignition and not visible, a tiny hacksaw blade or another small-profile tool can be inserted into the ignition to grab the edge of the damaged car key and pull it out.
Another option is to apply penetrating oil to lubricate the keyhole and reduce friction. If you apply the oil and let it sit for a couple of minutes, it will help in the removal of a broken key fragment. If the oil does not work it is possible to use a key extractor that can be used to extract the car key that is broken from the ignition.
If the key is completely broken in the ignition then a locksmith is required to cut a new one. A professional locksmith will reassemble the other pieces and use them as a template to design an entirely new key that will be as close as possible to the original. This guarantees that the key functions correctly and reduces the risk of misalignment in the lock or ignition. This could cause additional issues which can will require expensive and time-consuming repairs. Regularly checking and replacing car keys is recommended to prevent them from becoming worn out or damaged.
Remove the broken blade from the Ignition
If you're lucky enough to still have the key part, don't force it into the ignition, or you could cause further damage. You can use any tool you have at home to take it out it with care.
Tweezers can save the day in this type of situation. They can pick up a broken piece of car key and help you pull it out. Additionally, dental picks are tiny pointed tools that be used. This Web page can also use a wire coat hanger, that is flexible enough to fit in the lock. You could tap the metal against an unfinished surface to release the broken key.
You can also make use of a mini hacksaw, which is available in most hardware stores. This is thinner than a screwdriver, and it can be inserted into the lock to latch onto the car key that is broken. This may be enough to remove it without damaging the ignition. You may also try needle-nose pliers that are thin and able to latch on to the broken car key piece. If you're considering an instrument such as this, be sure you have cotton swabs and acetone handy to get any glue left on the edge of the pliers after you've pulled it out.
One important thing to be aware of is that using magnets to replace a damaged car key is a bad idea. They shouldn't be used close to an ignition as they could damage electrical components. They can also push the broken key fragments further into the ignition, making it harder to remove them.
After you've pulled the key out, you should inspect the ignition to determine whether there are obvious indications of damage. Call a locksmith if you find any cracks or holes in the ignition. They can provide key replacement services that don't damage your car's ignition. They can also offer advice about how to prevent further damage in the near future. The two pieces of your damaged car key can help them understand the original form of the key, and they can create a precise duplicate for you.
The process of getting a new key
If your car keys break there are a few things that you can do. It is crucial to remember to not force a broken key into an ignition or lock. This could cause more damage and result in expensive repairs. Instead, it is best to contact an locksmith immediately for a professional solution.
If your plastic top hasn't broken completely, you can try wrapping it with clear tape to support it and stop further damage. Super glue is another alternative. To achieve this, you'll need to wash the broken pieces prior to applying the smallest amount of super glue. After the glue has dried, you can try pressing the pieces together to try again and hopefully you will be able to get your key working.
You can also contact the dealer to get an alternative key. This is a great option because it will ensure that you have a perfect match to your vehicle and that the key is properly paired to the vehicle. Typically this will cost you more than using the services of a locksmith, but it could be the fastest and most effective solution to your problem.
A professional locksmith can give you an additional key that will be useful if you ever need to deal with an emergency. You can also reduce the chance of your key breaking in the future by taking care of it, using an appropriate key protector, and having a backup plan in case of emergency.
It can be very frustrating to have a broken car key, especially when you're trying to start your car but it won't start. It is tempting to take the situation into your own hands, but DIY fixes often backfire and can lead to issues with locks and ignition systems. Furthermore If your key is in the ignition, and you force it to go further this could damage the key fob battery or cause other issues that require costly repair. This is why it is recommended to contact a professional. A professional automotive locksmith can quickly and efficiently resolve the issue without causing damage to your vehicle or causing any further issues.