How to Repair Broken Car Keys
There's a need for a quick fix when your car key breaks. You can wait to get a replacement from the dealership, but that's inconvenient. Or, you can find another way to get around.
If you have the proper tools, you can do some DIY fixes. You can apply penetrating oil and needle-nosed pliers.
Assessing the damage
It's frustrating to be about to drive off and discover that your ignition key is damaged. This is a frequent issue that can occur to anyone, and can be extremely stressful when you're in a hurry to get where you need to go.
Take a deep breath and don't get stressed. Remaining calm will enable you to make rational decisions and prevent further harm.
Examine the key that was damaged to determine which components remain intact, and how much of it is in the ignition cylinder or lock. Spray WD-40 or other fluid on the area, in the event that the broken piece is inside the lock. This will loosen the piece and make it easier to remove. If the broken piece is located in the ignition, you'll need to remove it using the special tool called key extractor.
If the key remains in the ring, you may try to bend the key back with pliers. This is a challenging task, particularly in the event of a break near the connector. If you can't bend it back into position 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 in the ignition, it could cause more damage. It could even become impossible to remove. If you are unable remove a broken key you should contact a locksmith visit the dealership of your car.
There are broken car key repair near me of hacks available online which claim to fix broken keys to cars, but certain methods can make the situation worse. For example, trying to remove a damaged or broken key with a screwdriver can cause it to be pushed deeper into the ignition and can even cause damage to the lock. To avoid this, never insert anything other than a tool designed for removing keys into the keyhole.
Removing the Broken Part
A car key is fragile and could break inside the ignition after a the slightest bump or over use. It can be difficult to solve this type of problem without the help of an expert. If you attempt to repair the damaged key by yourself could result in more damage. Super glue or other methods are not recommended as they are difficult to remove and may cause further damage to the cylinder of your ignition.
It's also a bad thing to use a magnet to remove the broken key. Magnets can harm the electrical components of the ignition cylinder, making it even more difficult to get the damaged key out. Using excessive force or sudden movements when trying to turn the key is another common mistake that could lead to a broken car key.
If the key's fragment remains visible and exposed, pliers or even tongs can be employed. If the key is stuck in the ignition and is not visible, a small hacksaw blade or other thin-profile tool can be wedged into the ignition to catch the edge of the damaged car key and then pull it out.
Another option is to apply penetrating oil to lubricate the keyhole and reduce friction. If you apply the oil and allow it to sit for a few minutes, it will aid in the removal of a broken key fragment. If the oil doesn't work, you can try using the key extractor to take the broken key fragment from the ignition.
If the key is completely damaged in the ignition then a locksmith will be required to cut a replacement. A locksmith will reassemble all the components and then use the template to create keys that are as close to the original as it is possible. This guarantees that the key will function effectively and minimizes the chance of misalignment within the lock or ignition. This can cause further problems, which require costly and time-consuming repair. It is recommended to regularly check and replace keys for cars to ensure they are not worn or damaged to the point of breaking.
Remove the broken blade from the Ignition
If you're lucky enough to still have the key piece Don't put it in the ignition or you'll cause more damage. You can use any tools you have at home to take it out it safely.
Tweezers can be a lifesaver in this scenario. They can grasp the broken piece of car key and assist in removing it. You can also find dental picks, which are thin pointy tools that may be useful. You can also use coat hangers made of wire, which is flexible enough to fit into the lock. You may want to consider tapping the metal on a solid surface before, which can sometimes jar a broken key loose.
Another alternative is to make use of a mini hacksaw blade, which you can usually find in hardware stores. It is smaller than a screwdriver, and can be inserted into the lock to latch onto the damaged car key. This may be enough to take it off without damaging the ignition. You may also try needle-nose pliers that are very thin and can be able to latch on to the broken car key piece. If you're using a tool such as this, make sure you keep acetone or cotton swabs in your arsenal to remove any glue remaining from the edge.
It's not a great idea to use magnets to remove the damaged car key. Magnets aren't designed to be employed near the ignition and can cause further damage to the electrical components inside. They can also push broken key fragments further into the ignition, which makes it more difficult to remove.
After you've pulled the key out and you're ready to inspect the ignition to see whether there are obvious indications of damage. Contact a locksmith if notice any cracks in the ignition. They can replace keys without causing damage to the ignition of your car. They can also offer tips on how to avoid further damage in the future. The two pieces of your broken car key will help them better understand the original shape of the key, and also help them create a precise duplicate for you.
Getting a New Key
There are a few things you can try when your car key breaks. The most important thing to remember is to never force your broken key into the lock or ignition, since this could cause more damage and could lead to costly repairs in the future. It is recommended to contact an expert locksmith to make a fix.
Covering the cap of plastic on your key with clear tape will give protection and stop further damage. Another alternative is to apply super glue. To achieve this, you'll need to clean the broken pieces prior to applying a small amount of super glue. Once the glue dries it is possible to try pressing the pieces again and hopefully you will be able to get your key working.
You can also call the dealership for a replacement key. This is a good option since you'll get an exact key that is connected to your vehicle and that is properly paired to the vehicle. This will usually cost more than a locksmith, but may be the fastest and easiest solution to your issue.
A professional locksmith will also provide you with a spare key that can help you if encounter an emergency. You can also lower the likelihood of your key breaking in the future by taking care of it, by using a key protector, and having an emergency plan.
It can be very frustrating to lose your car key, particularly if you're trying to start your car and it isn't starting. It can be tempting to take the situation to your own however, DIY fixes usually backfire and can lead to problems with locks and ignition systems. If you force your key into the ignition, it could harm the battery in the keyfob, or cause issues that require expensive repairs. In these circumstances, it is best to seek a professional solution. A professional locksmith for cars will be able to quickly and efficiently solve the issue without damaging your vehicle or causing more problems.