How to Repair Broken Car Keys
If your car keys break and you require urgent help. You can either wait for the dealership to give you a new one which is a hassle, or you can find other options to travel, such as using public transport or relying on your friends for rides.
If you have the proper tools, you can perform some DIY fixes. They include needle-nose pliers, as well as penetrating oil.
Damage Assessment
It can be a bit frustrating to drive off and discover that the ignition key is broken. It's a common problem that can strike anyone and it can be extremely stressful when you're in a hurry to get to where you need to go.
Take a deep breath, and don't get stressed. Being calm will allow you to make logical decisions and prevent further harm.
Examine the key you broke to determine which components are still intact and how much is in the lock or ignition cylinder. Spray WD-40 or another lubricant on the area where the broken part is inside the lock. This will loosen the piece and make it easier to remove it. If the broken part is located in the ignition, you'll need to remove it using a specific tool known as a key extractor.
If the key is in the key ring, try to bend it back into place using pliers. This isn't easy, especially if the break is located near one of the connectors. If you can't get it bent back into position, 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 into the ignition, it will cause more damage. It could even become impossible to remove. If you're unable to remove the damaged key, it's recommended to seek out a professional locksmith, or visit your local car dealership.
There are key repair car of methods available online to fix a damaged car key, however some of them could actually cause more harm. For instance, attempting to remove a broken key with a screwdriver may cause it to be pushed deeper into the ignition and even cause damage to the lock. To avoid this, never insert anything other than a tool designed to remove keys into the keyhole.
Remove the broken part
Car keys are delicate A slight jolt or overuse can cause them to break in the ignition. It isn't easy to fix this issue without the help of an expert. The attempt to repair the broken key by yourself could result in further damage. Super glue and other methods are not recommended because they are difficult to remove and might cause further damage to the ignition cylinder.
It is also a bad choice to use a magnet to remove the broken key. Magnets can harm the electrical components of the ignition cylinder and make it harder to get the damaged key out. Utilizing excessive force or sudden movements when trying to turn the key is a common error that can result in a broken car key.
If the key's fragment remains visible and exposed, pliers or 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 grasp the edge of the damaged car key and then pull it out.
You can also use penetrating oils to lubricate and decrease friction in the keyhole. Applying the oil and allowing it to sit for a few minutes can aid in the removal of the broken key fragment. If the oil doesn't work, you can employ an extractor for keys to remove the broken key fragment from the ignition.
A locksmith must replace the key in the event that it is completely broken in the ignition. A professional locksmith will reassemble the remaining pieces and use the parts as a template to create an entirely new key that will be as close as possible to the original. This guarantees that the key works properly and minimizes any risk of misalignment within the lock or ignition. This could cause further problems that require expensive and time-consuming repairs. It is recommended to regularly inspect and replace car keys to prevent them from getting damaged or worn out 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. Instead, look for tools you might have at your home to try and get it out in a safe way.
In this situation, tweezers come in handy. They can grab onto a broken car key piece and help remove it. There are also dental picks, which are small sharp tools that can be useful. You could also try coat hangers made of wire, which is flexible enough to fit into the lock. You might try tapping the metal against the surface to loosen a broken key.
You can also make use of an incredibly small hacksaw that is available at most hardware stores. This is thinner than a screwdriver and can be put into the lock to hold to the broken car key. This could be enough to take it off without damaging the ignition. You may also try needle-nose pliers that are thin and can attach to the damaged car key piece. If you're trying using a tool like this, make sure to have cotton swabs and acetone handy to get any glue left on the edge of the pliers after having removed it.
One thing to remember is that using magnets to remove a broken car key isn't a good idea. Magnets should not be used near an ignition, as they can damage the electrical components. They also can push the broken pieces of the key deeper into the ignition, making it harder to remove them.
Once you've gotten the key out and you're ready to inspect the ignition to see whether there are any visible signs of damage. If you do notice any cracks or bends you should contact an expert locksmith. They can replace your keys without damaging the ignition of your car. They can also provide suggestions on how to prevent further damage. Keeping both pieces of your broken car key will allow them to better understand the original shape of the key, and also help them create a precise duplicate for you.
The process of getting a new key
If your car key is damaged there are a few things you can do. The most important thing to remember is to never insert your broken key into the ignition or lock, because this could cause further damage and result in costly repairs in the future. It is recommended to call an expert locksmith for a fix.
The cap of the plastic on your key with clear tape will provide support and protect against further damage. Super glue is another alternative. To do this, you will need to clean the broken pieces prior to applying the smallest amount of super glue. Once the glue is dry it is possible to press the pieces together and hopefully your key will work.
You can also contact the dealer to get an alternative key. This is a great option because it will ensure that you get an exact match to your vehicle and that the key is properly paired to the vehicle. This will usually cost more than a locksmith service, but might be the quickest and easiest solution to your problem.
A professional locksmith will also give you an additional key that can help you if ever need to deal with an emergency. You can reduce the chances of your key being damaged by taking care of it, using key protectors, and having a plan for emergencies.
It can be frustrating to lose your car key, especially when you're trying to start your car but it won't start. DIY fixes could backfire, and cause misalignments that can cause damage to ignition systems and locks. Additionally, if your key is in the ignition and you force it to go further it could damage the key fob battery or cause other issues that require expensive repair. In these circumstances, it is recommended to contact a professional. A professional automotive locksmith can quickly and easily solve the issue without causing damage to your vehicle or causing more problems.