How to Repair Broken Car Keys
If your car keys break, you need a solution quickly. You can either wait for the dealership to give you a new key which is a hassle, or find other ways to get around, like using public transport or relying on your 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
There's nothing more irritating than getting ready to get in your car to go somewhere and then finding that your key broke in the ignition. It's a problem that could happen to anyone, and can be a stressful experience if you're in a rush to get to your destination.
The first thing you need to do is take a deep breath and try not to be overly anxious. If you remain calm you'll be able make more rational decisions and avoid causing more damage.
Examine the key that was damaged to determine which parts are still intact, and how much is inside the ignition cylinder or lock. If the broken part is in the lock you can spray a lubricant such as WD-40 over the area to loosen it and make it easier to take it off. If the broken part is located in the ignition, it is necessary to remove it with a special tool known as a key extractor.
If the key is inside the key ring, you may try to bend the key back using pliers. This can be a difficult task, especially when you have a crack near a connector. If you're unable to bend it back into place, use a paperclip and pull it straight outward.
Trying to force the key into the ignition is likely to cause more damage and make it impossible to take it out. If you're not able to remove the damaged key, it's recommended to seek out a professional locksmith, or visit the dealership for your car.
There are numerous methods available online to fix a damaged car key, but certain of them may make the situation worse. If you try to remove a broken car key using a screwdriver, it can force the key further into the ignition. It could even damage the lock. To avoid this, do not insert anything other than a tool specifically designed to remove keys into the keyhole.
Removal of the damaged part
A car key is delicate and may break inside the ignition with the slightest bump or over use. This kind of issue could be difficult to fix without the help of an expert locksmith. You may cause further damage by trying to repair the broken key. Super glue and other hacks are not recommended because they can be hard to remove and could 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 piece out. Another mistake that is common can result in a broken key. car key repair is when you exert too much force or make sudden movements to turn the key in your car.
If the key fragment is visible and exposed, pliers or even tongs can be used. If the key is stuck in the ignition but is not visible, a small hacksaw blade or other tools with a thin profile can be inserted into the ignition to grab the edge of the damaged car key and then pull it out.
You can also apply penetrating oils to lubricate and reduce friction in the keyhole. If you apply the oil and let it sit for a few minutes, it could aid in the removal of a broken key fragment. If the oil does not work, you can use a key extractor to remove the broken key fragment from the ignition.
A locksmith must replace the key if it is completely damaged in the ignition. A professional locksmith will reassemble the remaining parts and use them as a model to create the new key which will be as close as possible to the original. This ensures that the new key will work properly and minimizes the risk of misalignment in the lock or ignition system. This can cause further problems which can will require expensive and time-consuming repairs. Regularly checking and replacing car keys is recommended to prevent them from becoming worn or damaged.
Remove the broken blade from the Ignition
If you're fortunate enough to still have the key piece Don't force it into the ignition, or you'll cause more damage. You can use any tools you have at home to take it out it with care.
Tweezers can be a lifesaver in this situation. They can grasp the broken piece of car key and help remove it. Also, dental picks are small pointed tools that be used. You can also use a flexible wire coat hanger that can be inserted inside the lock. You might try tapping the metal against the surface to loosen the key that is broken.
Another alternative is to use an incredibly small hacksaw blade which you can usually find in hardware stores. It is less thick than a screwdriver, and can be inserted into the lock to latch to the broken car key. This could suffice to get it out without damaging the ignition. You can also use needle-nosed pliers to latch onto the broken car key. If you are using a tool like this, ensure that you keep acetone or cotton swabs available to eliminate any remaining glue from the edge.
It's not a great idea to use magnets to remove a damaged car key. Magnets aren't made to be used near the ignition, and can cause further damage to the electrical components within. They can also push 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 see whether there are obvious signs of damage. If you do notice any cracks or bending, it's best to call a professional locksmith. They can offer key replacement services that won't cause damage to your vehicle's ignition. They can also give you suggestions on how to prevent further damage. 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.
How do I get a new key
There are a few options you can try when your car key is broken. The most important thing to keep in mind is to not force your broken key into the lock or ignition, as this can cause further damage and lead to more costly repairs in the future. It is recommended to contact an expert locksmith for a fix.
Wrapping the plastic cap of your key with clear tape will give protection and stop further damage. Another option is to apply super glue. To achieve this, you'll need to clean the broken pieces prior to applying an amount of super glue. After the glue is dry it is possible to attempt to press the pieces together to try again and hopefully you will be able to get your key working.
You can also contact the dealer to request an alternative key. This can be a good option because it will ensure that you have an exact match to your vehicle and that the key is correctly paired to the vehicle. It will typically cost more than a locksmith, however it could be the fastest and simplest solution to your problem.
A professional locksmith will be able to supply you with a spare key which can be handy in the event of a future emergency. You can minimize the risk of your key being damaged by taking care of it, using key protectors and a plan for emergencies.
A broken car key can be very frustrating, especially when you are trying to start the car and discover that it isn't turning over. It's tempting to take things into your own hands but DIY fixes typically fail and lead to problems with locks and ignition systems. If you put your key in the ignition, it could damage the keyfob battery or cause problems that require expensive repairs. It is recommended to speak with an expert for these issues. A professional automotive locksmith can quickly and effectively fix the problem without causing any damage to your vehicle or causing any further issues.