How to Repair Broken Car Keys
You need a quick solution when your car key breaks. You can wait for a replacement at the dealership, but that's not practical. You can also find a different way to get around.
If you've got the right tools, you can make some DIY fixes. These include needle-nose pliers and penetrating oil.
Damage Assessment
It's frustrating to be about to drive off and discover that your ignition key is broken. This is a frequent issue that can happen to anyone, and it can be extremely stressful when you're in a rush to get where you need to go.
The first thing you need to do is take your breath deeply and try not to be overly anxious. Remaining calm will enable you to make informed decisions and avoid further damage.
Next, examine the damaged key to see which parts are still in good condition and what percentage of the crack is in the lock or the ignition cylinder. If the damaged part is in the lock, you can spray a lubricant like WD-40 on the area to loosen it up and make it easier to take it off. If the broken piece is in the ignition, you'll have to remove it with a special tool called the key extractor.
If the key is in the ring, you may try to bend the key back into place with pliers. This can be difficult particularly if the break is near one of the connectors. If broken car key repair are unable to get it bent back in place, use a paperclip and pull straight outward.
Trying to force the key into the ignition will cause more damage and make it impossible to remove. If you're unable to remove a damaged key you should contact a locksmith visit the dealership of your car.
There are numerous methods available online to fix a damaged car key, however some of them could actually worsen the situation. For instance, trying to remove a damaged key with a screwdriver may push it deeper into the ignition and even cause damage to the lock. To avoid this, never insert anything other than a device specifically designed for removing keys into the keyhole.
Remove the broken piece
Car keys are brittle A slight jolt or excessive use can cause them to break inside the ignition. This type of problem can be difficult to fix without the assistance of a professional locksmith. You could cause further damage by trying to fix the damaged key. Super glue or other tricks should not be used because they are difficult to remove and may cause further damage to the cylinder of your ignition.
Utilizing a magnet to remove the broken key is a bad idea. Magnets can damage the electrical components of the ignition cylinder and make it harder to get the broken key piece out. Another common error can result in breaking the key. This happens when you exert too much force or perform sudden movements to turn the key in your car.
If the key fragment is visible, pliers or tweezers can be used to grasp the key and pull it out. If the key is stuck in the ignition and not visible, a tiny hacksaw blade or other thin-profile tool can be wedged into the ignition to grab the edge of the broken car key and then pull it out.
You can also apply penetrating oils to lubricate and decrease friction in the keyhole. Applying the oil and allowing it to sit for a few minutes will aid in the removal of the broken key fragment. If the oil does not work, you can employ a key extractor to remove the broken key fragment from the ignition.
A locksmith will have to replace the key in the event that it is completely damaged in the ignition. A professional locksmith will reassemble the other parts and use them as a template to design a new key that will be as close as possible to the original. This ensures that the key will function correctly and reduces the risk of misalignment in the lock or ignition. This could cause additional issues which can require costly and time-consuming repair. It is recommended to check regularly and replace the keys on your car to prevent them from getting damaged or worn out to the point of breaking.
Remove the Broken Blade from the Ignition
If you're fortunate enough to have the key part, don't force it into the ignition, or it could cause more damage. You can use any tools you have at home to take it out it safely.
In this case, tweezers are a lifesaver. They can grasp a damaged piece of car key and help you pull it out. Also, dental picks are thin pointed tools that can work. You can also use coat hangers made of wire, that is flexible enough to fit inside the lock. You may want to consider tapping the metal on a solid surface first to avoid jarring a broken key loose.
You can also make use of the mini hacksaw, which is available at most hardware stores. This is thinner than a screwdriver and can be put into the lock to latch on to the broken car key. This might be enough to get it out without causing damage to the ignition. You can also use needle-nose pliers that are very thin and can be able to attach to the damaged car key piece. If you're using a tool such as this, be sure to keep acetone or cotton swabs on hand to remove any glue remaining from the point.
It's not a great idea to use magnets to remove the damaged car key. They shouldn't be used close to an ignition, as they can damage the electrical components. They can also push damaged key fragments further into the ignition, making it more difficult to remove.
After you've removed the key, you must inspect the ignition for visible indications of damage. If you find cracks or bending it is recommended to contact a professional locksmith. They can provide key replacement services that don't cause damage to your vehicle's ignition. They can also provide tips on how to avoid further damage in the future. Keep both pieces of the broken car key. This will help them to understand the original shape and create a duplicate key for you.
Finding 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 not to force your broken key into the lock or ignition, because this could cause further damage and result in more expensive repairs in the future. Instead, it is recommended to call a locksmith right away for a professional solution.
Covering the cap of plastic on your key with clear tape will give protection and stop further damage. Super glue is another option. To do this, wash the broken pieces and apply a tiny dab of super glue to each. After the glue is dry, you can try pressing the pieces together again, and hopefully you will you will be able to get your key working.
You can also call the dealer to request a replacement key. This is a good option because you will get keys that are matched to your vehicle and that is correctly paired with the vehicle. This is usually more expensive than a locksmith, but could be the fastest and most efficient solution to your problem.
A professional locksmith will also provide you with an extra key that can help you if encounter an emergency. You can lessen the chance of your key being damaged by taking good care of it, using key protectors, and having an emergency plan.
A broken car key can be very painful, particularly when you try to start the car and find that it won't turn over. It can be tempting to take the situation by yourself however, DIY fixes usually result in misalignments that damage locks and ignition systems. If you push your key into the ignition, it may damage the keyfob battery or cause problems that require expensive repairs. For these reasons, it is best to seek out a professional solution. An experienced automotive locksmith will be able to quickly and efficiently fix the issue without causing damage to your vehicle or causing further issues.