How to Repair Broken Car Keys
If your car key is damaged, you need an immediate solution. You can wait for a replacement at the dealership, but it is difficult to do. Or, you could find a different way to get around.
You can try a few DIY fixes however, only if have the appropriate tools. You can apply penetrating oil and needle-nosed pliers.
Damage Assessment
There's nothing more annoying than getting ready to get in your car to drive somewhere only to discover that your key has broken in the ignition. It's an issue that could happen to anyone, and can be a stressful experience if you're in hurry to get to your destination.
The first thing you need to do is take a deep breath and try not to panic. Remaining calm will enable you to make logical decisions and prevent further harm.
Examine the broken key again to determine which components are still intact, and how much of it is inside the lock or ignition cylinder. Spray WD-40 or other lubricant on the area where the broken part is within the lock. This will help loosen the part and make it easier for you to remove it. If the broken part is in the ignition you'll need to remove it with a special tool called the key extractor.
If the key is inside the key ring, try to bend it back using pliers. This can be a difficult task, especially when you have a crack near the connector. If you can't get it bent back into place then you can make use of a paperclip to grab the end of the key and pull straight outward.
Trying to force the key into the ignition is likely to result in more damage and make it impossible to remove. If you're unable to remove a broken key contact a locksmith or visit the car dealership.
There are many different hacks online that claim 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 can force it into the ignition, and could even cause damage to the lock. To avoid this, do not insert anything other than a tool specifically designed to remove keys into the keyhole.
Remove the broken part
Car keys are fragile, and a slight impact or excessive use could cause them to break off inside the ignition. This type of problem can be difficult to fix without the assistance of an expert locksmith. car key repair could cause more damage by attempting to fix the broken key. Super glue and other hacks are not recommended since they are difficult to remove and may cause further damage to the ignition cylinder.
It is also a bad option to use a magnetic to remove the broken key. Magnets can damage electrical components inside the ignition cylinder which makes it harder to remove the broken key. Utilizing excessive force or sudden movements while trying to turn the key is a common mistake that can result in a broken car key.
If the key fragment remains exposed and visible, pliers or tweezers can be used to grip it and remove it. If the key is stuck in the ignition but not visible, a small hacksaw blade or other small-profile tool can be inserted into the ignition to catch 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 letting it sit for a few minutes will make it easier to remove the broken key fragment. If the oil doesn't work, you can use the key extractor to take the broken key fragment from the ignition.
A locksmith will have to replace the key if it's completely damaged in the ignition. A professional locksmith will reassemble all the pieces and use the parts as a template to create a new key that will be as close as possible to the original. This ensures that the new key functions properly and minimizes the risk of misalignment within the lock or ignition system. This could cause additional issues which can need costly and time-consuming repair. It is recommended to regularly inspect and replace the keys on your car to avoid them becoming damaged or worn out to the point of breaking.
Removing the Broken Blade from the Ignition
You could cause more damage if you force the key into the ignition. Instead, look for any tools you might have at your house to try and remove it in a safe way.
Tweezers are a lifesaver in this scenario. They can grasp a damaged piece of a car key and help you pull it out. There are also dental picks, which are thin sharp tools that can be useful. You can also use coat hangers made of wire, that is flexible enough to fit in the lock. You might want to try tapping the metal on a solid surface first to avoid jarring keys that are broken loose.
Another alternative is to make use of an incredibly small hacksaw blade which is usually available in hardware stores. It is smaller than a screwdriver and it can be inserted into the lock to latch onto the car key that is broken. This may be enough to take it off without damaging the ignition. You may also try needle-nose pliers, which are very thin and can be able to attach to the damaged car key piece. If you are using a tool like this, make sure you 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 a damaged car key. Magnets aren't designed to be used near the ignition, and can cause further damage to the electrical components inside. They also can push the broken pieces of the key deeper into the ignition, making it difficult to remove them.
After you've removed your key, you should check the ignition for visible indications of damage. If you do notice any cracks or bends you should contact a professional locksmith. They can offer key replacement services that won't damage your car's ignition. They can also offer suggestions on how to prevent further damage in the near future. Keep both pieces of your broken car key will allow them to better understand the original shape of the key, and will also allow them to make a exact duplicate for you.
The process of getting a new key
There are a few options you can try when your car keys break. It is crucial to remember to not force a broken key into an ignition or lock. This could cause more damage and could result in costly repairs. Instead, it is best to contact locksmiths immediately for a professional assistance.
The cap of the plastic on your key with clear tape will provide support and prevent further damage. Super glue is another alternative. To do this, wash the broken pieces and apply a tiny dab of super glue to each. After the glue is dry you can attempt to press the pieces together, and hopefully your key will work.
You can also contact the dealer to obtain an alternative key. This is a good option since you'll get keys that are matched to your vehicle and is properly connected to the vehicle. In general, this will cost more than the services of a locksmith, but it may be the most efficient and easiest way to solve your issue.
A professional locksmith can also provide you with an extra key that could come in handy if you ever need to deal with an emergency. You can reduce the chances of your key being damaged by taking good care of it, by using key protectors, and having a plan for emergencies.
It can be very frustrating to have a broken car key, especially when you're trying to start your car but it isn't starting. It's tempting to take the situation by yourself however, DIY fixes usually fail and lead to problems with locks and ignition systems. If you force your key into the ignition, it may harm the battery in the keyfob, or cause problems that require expensive repairs. It is best to consult an expert for these issues. A skilled locksmith for your car can quickly and efficiently resolve the issue without damaging your vehicle or causing more problems.