How to Repair Broken Car Keys
When your car key breaks you'll need urgent help. You can wait for a replacement from the dealership, but that's inconvenient. Or, you can locate a different method of getting around.
You can try a few DIY fixes, but only if you have the right tools. You can apply penetrating oil and needle-nosed pliers.
Assessing the damage
There's nothing more annoying than getting in your car to go somewhere only to realize that your key has broken in the ignition. It's an issue that could happen to anyone, and can be stressful if you're in hurry to get to your destination.
The first thing you should do is to take an exhale and try not to get stressed. If you stay calm, you'll be able to make better decisions and avoid worsening the damage.
Next, examine the key that is broken to determine which parts are still in good condition and what percentage of the crack is inside the lock or the ignition cylinder. If the damaged part is in the lock you can spray a lubricant such as WD-40 to loosen it and make it easier to take it off. If the broken part is in the ignition you'll need to take it out with a special tool called 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 cannot bend it back into place, use a paperclip and pull straight outward.
If you try to force the key into the ignition is likely to cause more damage and make it impossible to remove. If you are unable to remove a broken or damaged key contact a locksmith or visit the car dealership.
There are a variety of hacks online that claim to fix a damaged car key, however certain of them may make the situation worse. If you attempt to remove a broken car key using a screwdriver it could push the key deeper into the ignition. It may even harm the lock. To avoid this, you should not put anything else in the keyhole, unless you use a tool that is designed for removing car keys.
Take out the broken part
Car keys are brittle and even a small impact or overuse can cause them break off inside the ignition. It can be difficult to fix this problem without the help of an expert. Attempting to repair the broken key by yourself could result in more damage. Super glue or other tricks should not be used as they are difficult to remove and may cause further damage to your ignition cylinder.
It's also a dangerous choice to use a magnet to remove the broken key. Magnets can harm the electrical components of the ignition cylinder, making it even more difficult to get the broken key out. Utilizing excessive force or sudden movements while trying to turn the key is another common error that can lead to a broken car key.
If the key fragment is visible and exposed, pliers and tongs can be used. If the key is not 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.
Another option is to apply penetrating oil to lubricate the keyhole and reduce friction. If you apply the oil and let it sit for a few minutes, it will help in the removal of the broken piece of key. If the oil doesn't work, a key extractor can be used to extract the damaged car key from the ignition.
If the key is totally damaged in the ignition, a locksmith will be required to cut a replacement. A professional locksmith will reassemble all the components and use them as a model to create an entirely new key that is as close as possible to the original. This guarantees that the key works correctly and reduces the risk of misalignment in the lock or ignition. This can cause further problems that need costly and time-consuming repair. It is recommended to regularly check and replace the keys on your car to avoid them becoming worn or damaged to the point of breaking.
Remove the broken blade from the Ignition
You could cause more damage if you force the ignition key. You can use any tool you have at home to take it out it with care.
In this scenario Tweezers can be a lifesaver. They can grasp onto the broken key from a car and assist in removing it. Additionally, dental picks are small pointed tools that can be used. You can also use a coat hanger that is flexible that will fit inside the lock. You might tap the metal against a solid surface to loosen the broken key.
Another alternative is to use an incredibly small hacksaw blade which you can usually find in hardware stores. This is thinner than a screwdriver, and can be inserted into the lock to hold to the broken car key. This could suffice to get it out without damaging the ignition. You could also try using needle-nose pliers that 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 cotton swabs or acetone 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 aren't made to be employed near the ignition and could cause further damage to the electrical components inside. They also can push broken key fragments further into ignition, making it difficult to remove.
After you've removed your key, you should check the ignition for visible signs of damage. If remote car key repair find cracks or bends you should contact a professional locksmith. They can provide key replacement services that don't harm the ignition of your car. They can also give you tips on how to avoid further damage in the near future. Keep both pieces of the broken car key. This will help them to comprehend the original shape and design and make an identical key for you.
The process of getting a new key
There are a few things you can try if your car keys break. It is important to remember to never force a broken key into the ignition or lock. This can cause more damage and could result in costly repairs. It is recommended to call an expert locksmith to make a repair.
Wrapping the plastic cap of your key with clear tape will give support and protect against further damage. Another alternative is to use super glue. To do this, clean the broken pieces and apply a small dab of super glue to each. After 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 a replacement key. This can be a good alternative because it's a way to ensure that you have a perfect match for your car and that the key is properly linked to the vehicle. This will usually cost more than a locksmith, but might be the quickest and easiest solution to your problem.
A professional locksmith can give you an additional key that will be useful if you ever have to face an emergency. You can lessen the chance of your key being damaged by taking good care of it, by using key protectors and an emergency plan.
A break in a car key can be frustrating, especially when you attempt to start your car but find it won't turn over. It is tempting to take the situation by yourself but DIY fixes typically result in misalignments that damage locks and ignition systems. In addition when your key is in the ignition, and you push it even further this could cause damage to the battery of your key fob or cause other issues that require costly repair. In these circumstances, it is recommended to seek out a professional solution. A professional locksmith for automotive can quickly and effectively solve the issue without damaging your car or causing further problems.