How to Repair Broken Car Keys
You'll need a quick solution when your car keys break. You can either wait for the dealership to give you a new one which can be a hassle or you can find other options to get around, such as using public transportation or relying on friends to take you around.
You can try a few DIY fixes however, only if have the proper tools. You can apply penetrating oil and needle-nosed pliers.
Damage Assessment
It can be a bit frustrating to get into your car and discover that the ignition key is broken. This issue can happen to anyone, and can be stressful if you're in the rush to get to your destination.
Take a deep breath and don't be afraid. If you remain calm you'll be able make more rational decisions and avoid worsening the damage.
Examine the key that was damaged to determine what parts remain intact and how much of it is in the lock or ignition cylinder. If the broken piece is inside the lock, you can apply a lubricant, such as WD-40 to loosen it and make it easier to remove. If the broken piece is in the ignition it is necessary to remove it with the special tool called an extractor for keys.
If the key is on the key ring, try to bend it back into place using pliers. This can be difficult particularly if the break is located near one of the connectors. If you cannot bend it back into the correct position, use a clip and pull it straight outward.
The attempt to force the key into the ignition will result in more damage and make it impossible to take it out. If you are unable to get rid of the damaged key, it's best to seek out a professional locksmith, or visit the dealership for your car.
Many different hacks are available online that claim to fix broken car keys, however some of them can actually cause the problem to get worse. For instance, trying to remove a broken key with a screwdriver may cause it to be pushed deeper into the ignition and can even cause damage to the lock. To avoid this, never insert anything else into the keyhole other than a specific tool that is designed for removing keys from cars.
Take out the broken part
Car keys are delicate and even a small impact or use can cause them to break off inside the ignition. It can be difficult to fix this problem without the help of an expert. If you attempt to repair the damaged key on your own could cause further damage. Super glue and other methods are not recommended because they are difficult to remove and could cause further damage to the ignition cylinder.
It's also a dangerous option to use a magnetic to remove the broken key. Magnets can harm the electrical components of the ignition cylinder and make it more difficult to get the damaged key out. Making excessive force or abrupt movements while trying to turn the key is a common error that can cause a damaged car key.
If the key fragment remains exposed and visible, pliers or tweezers can be used to grab it and remove it. If the key is not visible and stuck in the ignition, smaller hacksaws or any other thin-profiled tool can be wedged to catch the edge and then pull it out.
You can also use penetrating oils to reduce friction and lubricate friction in the keyhole. If you apply the oil and allow it to sit for a few minutes, it could help in the removal of the broken piece of key. If the oil does not work, you can employ a key extractor to remove the broken key fragment from the ignition.
If the key is completely broken in the ignition, a locksmith will be required to cut a new one. A professional locksmith will reassemble the other parts and use them as a template to design the new key which will be as similar as possible to the original. This assures that the key will function effectively and minimizes the chance of misalignment in the lock or ignition. This could cause additional issues which can will require expensive and time-consuming repairs. It is recommended to regularly inspect and replace keys for cars to avoid them becoming 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 force it into the ignition or you'll cause more damage. Instead, look for any tools you might have in your house to try and remove it safely.
In this scenario, tweezers come in handy. They can grasp onto the broken piece of car key and help remove it. Dental picks are small pointed tools that be used. You could also try a flexible wire coat hanger that can be inserted inside the lock. You may want to try tapping the metal on a solid surface before, which can sometimes jar a broken key loose.
You can also use an incredibly small hacksaw that is available at most hardware stores. This is thinner than a screwdriver and can be inserted into the lock to secure onto the damaged car key. This could be enough to get it out without damaging the ignition. You can also use needle-nose pliers that are thin and can latch on to the broken car key piece. If you're trying a tool such as this, be sure to keep acetone and cotton swabs available to take any glue from the tip of the pliers after having removed it.
It's not a great idea to use magnets in the removal of the damaged car key. Magnets aren't intended to be used near the ignition and can cause further damage to the electrical components within. They can also push the broken pieces of the key deeper into the ignition, making it difficult to remove them.
After you've pulled the key off and you're ready to inspect the ignition to determine if there are any visible signs of damage. Contact a locksmith if detect any cracks in the ignition. They can offer key replacement services that don't harm the ignition of your car. They can also offer advice about how to prevent further damage in the near future. Keeping both pieces of your broken car key will allow them to understand the original form of the key, and they can create a precise duplicate for you.
Finding a New Key
If your car key is damaged there are a few things that you can do. The most important thing to keep in mind is to not force your broken key into the ignition or lock, since this could cause more damage and could lead to more expensive repairs in the future. It is best to call an expert locksmith for a repair.
The cap of the plastic on your key with clear tape will provide support and protect against further damage. Super glue is another option. To do this, wash the broken pieces and apply a small dab of super glue to each. Once the glue has dried it is possible to press the pieces back together, and hopefully your key will work.
You can also contact the dealer to obtain 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. Usually this will cost you more than a locksmith service, but it may be the most efficient and most effective solution to your problem.
A professional locksmith will also be able to supply you with a spare key, which can be useful in the event of an emergency. You can also decrease the chance of your key breaking down in the future by taking care of it, using an appropriate key protector, and having a backup plan in case of emergency.
A broken car key can be very difficult, especially when you attempt to start the car and discover that it isn't turning over. DIY fixes could backfire, and cause misalignments that can damage ignition systems and locks. Furthermore If The Key Lab is in the ignition and you force it to go further it could harm the battery for the key fob or cause other issues that require expensive repair. In these circumstances, it is recommended to seek a professional solution. A professional locksmith for automotive can quickly and easily resolve the issue without causing any damage to your vehicle or causing any further issues.