How to Repair Broken Car Keys
If your car keys break and you require urgent help. You can either wait for the dealer to give you a new one, which is inconvenient, or find alternative ways to get around, like taking public transport or relying on your friends for rides.
If you have the proper tools, you can do some DIY fixes. These include needle-nose pliers and penetrating oil.
Damage Assessment
There's nothing more irritating than getting in your car to drive somewhere only to discover that your keys have broken in the ignition. It's a problem that can happen to anyone, and can be stressful if you're in hurry to get to your destination.
The first thing you must do is to take a deep breath and try not to panic. Staying calm will allow you to make logical decisions and prevent further harm.
Examine the key that was damaged to determine which components are still intact and how much is inside the ignition cylinder or lock. Spray WD-40 or another lubricant on the area where the broken part is inside the lock. This will make the piece looser and make it easier to remove. If the damaged part is located in the ignition, you'll need to remove it with an instrument that is specifically designed for this purpose, known as key extractor.
If the key is in the key ring, try to bend it back using pliers. This can be a difficult task, particularly when you have a crack near a connector. If you are unable to get it bent back in place, use a paperclip and pull straight outward.
If you attempt to force the key in the ignition, it could cause more damage. It could even become impossible to remove. If you're unable to remove a broken key you should contact a locksmith visit the car dealership.
There are a variety of hacks available online which claim to fix broken keys to cars, but certain methods can make the situation worse. For instance, attempting to remove a broken key with a screwdriver may force it into the ignition, and could even cause damage to the lock. To avoid this, never insert anything other than a tool specifically designed for removing keys into the keyhole.
Removal of the damaged part
A car key is delicate and may be damaged inside the ignition by the slightest bump or over use. It isn't easy to solve this type of problem without the assistance of a professional. If you attempt to repair the damaged key on your own could cause more damage. Super glue and other methods are not recommended since they are difficult to remove and could cause further damage to the ignition cylinder.
Using a magnet to remove a broken key is also an unwise idea. Magnets can damage the electrical components of the ignition cylinder, making it more difficult to get the damaged key out. Utilizing excessive force or sudden movements when 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 grasp the key and pull it out. If the key is stuck in the ignition but not visible, a small hacksaw blade or another thin-profile tool can be wedged into the ignition to grasp the edges of the broken car key and then pull it out.
It is also possible to use penetrating oils to reduce friction and lubricate friction in the keyhole. Applying the oil and letting it sit for a couple of minutes could help in the removal of the broken key fragment. If the oil does not work, you can use the key extractor to take the broken key fragment from the ignition.
A locksmith must replace the key if it is completely broken in the ignition. A locksmith will reassemble all components and make use of the template to design keys that are as similar to the original as it is possible. This guarantees that the key works properly and minimizes any risk of misalignment within the lock or ignition. This could cause additional issues which can require costly and time-consuming repair. Regularly checking and replacing keys to cars is recommended to stop them from becoming worn out or damaged.
Remove the broken blade from the Ignition
You could cause more damage if force the key into the ignition. You can use any tool you own to remove it safely.
In this situation Tweezers can be a lifesaver. They can grasp a broken car key piece and help pull it out. Also, dental picks are thin pointed tools that can work. You can also use a coat hanger that is flexible that will fit inside the lock. You might want to try tapping the metal on a solid surface before to avoid jarring keys that are broken loose.
You can also make use of an incredibly small hacksaw that is available in most hardware stores. It is smaller than a screwdriver, and it is able to slip into the lock to secure the damaged car key piece. This might suffice to get it out without causing damage to the ignition. You can also use needle-nose pliers, which are thin and able to latch on to the broken car key piece. If you're using a tool like this, ensure that you have acetone or cotton swabs in your arsenal to remove any glue that remains from the point.
One important thing to be aware of is that using magnets to take out a broken car key is a bad idea. Magnets shouldn't be used near an ignition because they can damage the electrical components. They also can push the broken key fragments further into the ignition, making it more difficult to remove them.
After you have removed the key, you should check the ignition for any visible signs of damage. If you do notice any cracks or bends it is recommended to contact a professional locksmith. They can replace keys without causing damage to your car's ignition. They can also offer advice on how to avoid further damage. Keep the two pieces of the damaged car key. This will help them to understand the original shape and design and make an identical key for you.
How do I get a new key
If your car keys break, there are a few things that you can do. It is crucial to keep in mind that you should not force a damaged key into a lock or ignition. This can cause more damage and result in expensive repairs. Instead, it is best to call a locksmith right away for a professional assistance.
If the plastic top of your key isn't completely broken Try wrapping it in clear tape to support it and prevent further breakage. Super glue is another option. To do this, clean 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 to try again and hopefully you will be able to get your key working.
Alternatively, you can call the dealership to request an alternative key. This is a great option because you will get keys that are matched to your vehicle and is properly connected to the vehicle. In general this will cost you more than using an locksmith service, however it could be the fastest and most effective solution to your issue.
A professional locksmith will be able to provide you with a spare key which can be handy in case of future emergencies. You can also lower the likelihood of your key breaking down in the future by taking care of it, using the key protector and having a plan for emergencies.
A break in a car key can be painful, particularly when you attempt to start your car but discover that it isn't turning over. It's tempting to take the situation into your own hands but DIY fixes typically backfire and can lead to issues with locks and ignition systems. If you push your key into the ignition, it can harm the battery in the keyfob, or cause problems that require costly repairs. It is advised to consult a professional for these reasons. A skilled locksmith for your car will be able to quickly and efficiently solve the issue without damaging your vehicle or causing more problems.