How to Repair Broken Car Keys
There's a need for a quick fix when your car keys break. You can wait for a replacement from the dealership, but it is difficult to do. You can also find a different way to get around.
You may try some DIY fixes, but only if you have the appropriate tools. You can use penetrating oils and needle-nosed pliers.
Assessing the Damage
It can be a bit frustrating to get in your car and realize that your ignition key is damaged. It's a common problem that can strike anyone, and can be extremely stressful when you're in a rush to get where you need to be.
Take a deep breath and don't be afraid. If you stay calm you'll be able make more informed decisions and avoid causing more damage.
Examine the key that was damaged to determine which components remain intact and how much of it is in the lock or ignition cylinder. Spray WD-40 or another oil on the area where the broken part is in the lock. This will make the piece looser and make it easier to remove. If the broken part is located in the ignition, you will need to remove it using an instrument that is specifically designed for this purpose, known as key extractor.
If the key is still in the key ring you can try to bend the key back with pliers. This is a challenging task, especially if you have a break near the connector. If you're unable to bend it back into position then you can use a paperclip to grasp the end of the key and pull straight outward.
Trying to force the key into the ignition is likely to cause more damage and could make it impossible to remove. If you're not able to remove the broken key, it's recommended to contact a professional locksmith or visit your car dealership.
There are many different hacks online which claim to fix broken car keys, however some can actually make the situation worse. For instance, trying to remove a broken key with a screwdriver can force it into the ignition and even cause damage to the lock. To avoid this, you should not insert anything else into the keyhole besides a special tool designed for removing car keys.
Removal of the damaged part
A car key is brittle and may break inside the ignition after a the slightest bump or over use. It isn't easy to solve this type of problem without the assistance of an expert. If you attempt to repair the damaged key by yourself could result in further damage. Super glue or other tricks should not be used because they are difficult to remove and could cause further damage to the cylinder of your ignition.
Utilizing a magnet to take out a broken key is also not a good idea. Magnets can cause damage to electrical components inside the ignition cylinder which makes it harder to remove the damaged key. Using excessive force or sudden movements when attempting to turn the key is another common mistake that can cause a damaged car key.
If the key's fragment remains visible and exposed, pliers or tongs can be employed. If the key isn't visible and stuck in the ignition, an incredibly small hacksaw or thin-profiled tool can be wedged to catch the edge and then pull it out.
You can also use penetrating oils to lubricate and decrease 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 doesn't work, you can use an extractor for keys to remove the broken key fragment from the ignition.
If the key has completely broken in the ignition, a locksmith is required to cut a new one. A locksmith will reassemble all the components and make use of the template to design a key that is as similar to the original as is possible. This assures that the key functions correctly and reduces the risk of misalignment within the lock or ignition. This could cause additional issues which can will require expensive and time-consuming repairs. It is recommended to regularly check and replace keys for cars is recommended to stop them from becoming worn or damaged.
Remove the broken blade from the Ignition
If you're lucky enough to still have the key piece, don't push it into the ignition or you could cause further damage. You can use any tool you have at home to remove it with care.
Tweezers are a lifesaver in this scenario. They can grab onto the broken piece of car key and assist in removing it. Also, dental picks are tiny pointed tools that work. You can also use coat hangers made of wire, that is flexible enough to fit in the lock. You might tap the metal against the surface to loosen the broken key.
Another option is to use a mini hacksaw blade, which you can usually find in hardware stores. try what she says is thinner than a screwdriver, and it can be inserted into the lock to latch onto the car key that is broken. This could be enough to remove it without damaging the ignition. You can also use needle-nosed pliers to latch onto the broken car key. If you're trying using a tool like this, make sure to have cotton swabs and acetone handy to remove any glue left on the edge of the pliers once you've removed it.
One important thing to be aware of is that using magnets to take out a broken car key is a bad idea. Magnets aren't designed to be used near the ignition, and could cause further damage to the electrical components inside. They can also push broken key fragments further into the ignition, making it more difficult to remove them.
After you've pulled the key part out and you're ready to inspect the ignition to determine whether there are any obvious signs of damage. Call a locksmith if you find any cracks or holes in the ignition. They can repair keys without causing damage to the ignition of your car. They can also give you suggestions on how to prevent further damage. Keep both pieces of the broken car key. This will allow them understand the original shape and create duplicate keys for you.
Finding a New Key
There are a few options you can try when your car keys break. It is important to remember to not force a damaged key into the ignition or lock. This could cause further damage and could result in costly repairs. It is recommended to contact an expert locksmith for a fix.
Covering the cap of plastic on your key with clear tape will provide protection and stop further damage. Super glue is another option. To achieve this, you'll need to clean the broken pieces before applying an amount of super glue. After the glue is dry it is possible to try pressing the pieces again and hopefully get your key to work.
You can also call the dealer to get an alternative key. This is a good option since you'll get keys that are matched to your car and is properly paired to the vehicle. This is usually more expensive than a locksmith service, but could be the fastest and simplest solution to your problem.
A professional locksmith will be able to provide you with a spare key which can be useful in case of future emergencies. You can also decrease the chance of your key breaking in the future by taking care of it, by using the key protector and having a plan for emergencies.
A damaged car key can be extremely painful, particularly when you try to start the car and find it won't turn over. It's tempting to take matters to your own but DIY fixes typically fail and lead to issues with locks and ignition systems. If you put your key in the ignition, it could cause damage to the battery of the keyfob or cause issues that require expensive repairs. For these reasons, it is best to seek a professional solution. A professional locksmith for cars will be able to quickly and efficiently solve the issue without damaging your vehicle or causing additional problems.