How to Repair Broken Car Keys
If your car key is damaged, you need urgent help. You can wait for a replacement from the dealership, but it is not practical. Or, you can find another way to get around.
You may try some DIY fixes however, only if have the right tools. You can make use of penetrating oils and needle-nosed pliers.
Damage Assessment
There's nothing more annoying than getting ready to get in your car to head out only to realize that your key has broken in the ignition. This issue can occur to anyone, and it can be stressful if you're a rush to get to your destination.
The first thing you need to do is to take a deep breath and try not to panic. Being calm will allow you to make logical decisions and prevent further harm.
Next, examine the broken key to see what remains of the key and how much of the damage is in the lock or the ignition cylinder. Spray WD-40 or other lubricant on the area where the broken part is inside the lock. This will make the piece looser and make it easier to remove it. If the damaged part is in the ignition you will need to remove it with the special tool called a key extractor.
If the key is in the ring, you may try to bend the key back with pliers. This can be difficult particularly if the break is located near one of the connectors. If you are unable to get it bent back in position, use a paperclip and pull it straight outward.
If you attempt to force the key in the ignition, it will cause more damage. It could even become impossible to remove. If you're not able to remove the broken key, it's best to call a professional locksmith or visit the dealership for your car.
There are a variety of hacks online that claim to fix a damaged car key, but some of them can actually cause more harm. For example, trying to remove a broken key using a screwdriver could cause it to be pushed deeper into the ignition, and could even cause damage to the lock. To avoid this, never insert anything other than a tool designed for removing keys into the keyhole.
Removing the Broken Part
Car keys are brittle and even a small impact or overuse 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. You could cause more damage by attempting to fix the damaged key. Super glue or other tricks are not recommended as they are difficult to remove and may cause further damage to the cylinder of your ignition.
Utilizing a magnet to remove a broken key is also not a good idea. Magnets can cause damage to electrical components in the ignition cylinder which makes it harder to remove the damaged key. Another mistake that is common can lead to a damaged key. This is when you use excessive force or perform sudden movements to turn the car key.
If the key fragment is exposed and visible and visible, pliers or tweezers may be used to grab it and remove it. If the key isn't visible and is stuck in the ignition, smaller hacksaws or any other thin-profiled tool can be wedged to catch the edge 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 few minutes can help in the removal of the broken key fragment. If the oil doesn't work, you can try using a key extractor to remove the broken key fragment from the ignition.
If the key is totally broken off in the ignition, a locksmith is required to cut a replacement. A professional locksmith will reassemble the other pieces and use them as a model to design a new key that will be as close as possible to the original. This assures that the key functions correctly and reduces the risk of misalignment in the lock or ignition. This can lead to further issues that require costly and time-consuming repairs. It is recommended to check regularly and replace keys for cars to avoid them becoming damaged or worn to the point of breaking.
Remove the broken blade from the Ignition
If you're lucky enough to have the key part do not force it into the ignition or you'll cause more damage. You can use any tools you have at home to take it out it safely.
In this scenario Tweezers can be a lifesaver. They can grab a broken piece of a key for your car and assist you in pulling it out. There are also dental picks, which are small pointed tools that could be useful. repair car key can also use coat hangers made of wire that is flexible enough to fit into the lock. You can tap the metal against a solid surface to loosen the key that is broken.
You can also make use of an incredibly small hacksaw that is readily available in a majority of hardware stores. It is smaller than a screwdriver, and it can be inserted into the lock to secure the broken car key piece. This might be enough to pull it out without causing damage to the ignition. You can also try using thin needle-nosed pliers that can connect to the broken car key. If you are using a tool such as this, make sure you have cotton swabs or acetone on hand to remove any remaining glue from the point.
One thing to remember is that using magnets to remove a broken car key isn't a good idea. Magnets aren't designed to be employed near the ignition and could cause further damage to the electrical components inside. They can also push the broken pieces of the key deeper into the ignition, making it harder to remove them.
After you've removed the key, make sure to check the ignition for visible indications of damage. If you find cracks or bending it is recommended to contact a professional locksmith. They can replace the keys with no damage to your car's ignition. They can also offer suggestions on how to prevent further damage. Keeping both pieces of your damaged car key will allow them to better understand the original shape of the key, and they can make a exact duplicate for you.
How to get a new key
If your car key is damaged there are a few things you can do. It is crucial to remember that you should not force a broken key into a lock or ignition. This could cause further damage and could result in costly repairs. It is recommended to contact an expert locksmith to make a repair.
Wrapping the plastic cap of your key with clear tape will provide support and prevent further damage. Another option is to make use of super glue. To do this, you will need to clean the broken pieces prior to applying an amount of super glue. After the glue is dry it is possible to try pressing the pieces together again and hopefully you will be able to get your key working.
You can also call the dealership for the replacement key. This is a great option because you'll receive keys that are matched to your car and is properly connected to the vehicle. In general, this will cost more than using the services of a locksmith, but it could be the fastest and easiest way to solve your issue.
A professional locksmith can also give you an additional key that can come in handy if you ever have to face an emergency. You can minimize the risk of your key being damaged by taking good care of it, using key protectors, and having a plan for emergencies.
It can be a hassle to have a broken car key, especially if you're trying to start your car but it won't start. It is tempting to take matters into your own hands however, DIY fixes usually backfire and can lead to misalignments that damage locks and ignition systems. In addition, if your key is in the ignition and you force it further it could harm the battery for the key fob or cause other issues that require costly repair. For these reasons, it is recommended to seek out a professional solution. An experienced automotive locksmith will be able to quickly and easily fix the issue without causing damage to your vehicle or causing further issues.