How to Repair Broken Car Keys
You need a quick solution when your car keys break. You can either wait for the dealership to give you a new one which is a hassle, or you can find other options to get around, such as taking public transport or relying on your friends to take you around.
You can try a few DIY fixes, but only if you have the right tools. They include needle-nose pliers, as well as penetrating oil.
Damage Assessment
It's frustrating to be about to get into your car and discover that your ignition key is broken. It's a common problem that can occur to anyone, and can be very stressful when you're in a rush to get where you need to go.
The first thing you must do is to take a deep breath and try not to get stressed. Remaining calm will enable you to make rational choices and avoid any further damage.
Examine the broken key again to determine what parts are still intact, and how much of it is in the lock or ignition cylinder. If the broken piece is in the lock you can spray a lubricant such as WD-40 on the area to loosen it up and make it easier to take it off. If the broken piece is in the ignition, you'll need to remove it with a special tool called the key extractor.
If the key is still inside the key ring, you can try to bend the key back by using pliers. This can be difficult particularly if the break is located near one of the connectors. If you can't get it bent back into its place, you can make use of a paperclip to grab the end of the key and pull it 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 are unable to get rid of the broken key, it's recommended to seek out a professional locksmith, or visit the dealership for your car.
There are numerous methods online that claim to fix a damaged car key, however some of them could actually make the situation worse. For example, trying to remove a damaged key using a screwdriver could force it into the ignition and even cause damage to the lock. To avoid this, do not insert anything other than a tool designed to remove keys into the keyhole.
Removing the Broken Part
Car keys are brittle A slight jolt or use can cause them break in the ignition. It can be difficult to fix this problem without the assistance of a professional. Attempting to repair the broken key by yourself could result in more damage. Super glue or other hacks should not be used because they are difficult to remove and could cause further damage to your ignition cylinder.
Using a magnet to remove the broken key is an unwise idea. Magnets can cause damage to the electrical components of the ignition cylinder and make it more difficult to get the damaged key piece out. Using excessive force or sudden movements while trying to turn the key is another common mistake that could cause a damaged car key.
If the key fragment remains visible and exposed, pliers or even tongs can be employed. If the key is stuck in the ignition but not visible, a tiny hacksaw blade or other tools with a thin profile can be inserted into the ignition to grab the edge of the damaged car key and then pull it out.
Another option is to use penetrating oil to help lubricate the keyhole and decrease friction. Applying repair key and letting it sit for a few minutes will aid in the removal of the broken key fragment. If the oil does not work, you can employ the key extractor to take the broken key fragment from the ignition.
If the key has completely damaged in the ignition, a locksmith will be required to cut a replacement. A professional locksmith will reassemble the remaining pieces and use the parts as a template to create the new key which will be as close as possible to the original. This assures that the key will function correctly and reduces the risk of misalignment inside the lock or ignition. This could lead to further issues, which need costly and time-consuming repair. It is recommended to check regularly and replace the keys on your car to ensure they are not worn or damaged to the point of breaking.
Remove the broken blade from the Ignition
You may cause more damage if you push the ignition key. You can use any tools you own to remove it in a safe manner.
In this situation, tweezers come in handy. They can grasp onto the broken key from a car and assist in removing it. There are also dental picks, which are small pointy tools that may work as well. You can also use a flexible wire coat hanger that fits inside the lock. You could try tapping the metal against a solid surface to loosen the key that is broken.
Another option is to use the mini hacksaw blade that you will typically find in hardware stores. It is less thick than a screwdriver, and can be slipped into the lock to secure to the broken car key. This could suffice to get it out without damaging the ignition. You can also try using thin needle-nosed pliers to latch onto the broken car key. If you're using a tool such as this, make sure you have cotton swabs or acetone in your arsenal to remove any remaining glue from the tip.
One thing to keep in mind is that using magnets to take out a broken car key is a bad idea. They shouldn't be used close to an ignition as they can damage the electrical components. They can also push broken key fragments further into the ignition, making it more difficult to remove.
After you have removed the key, make sure to check the ignition for any obvious signs of damage. Call a locksmith if you detect any cracks in the ignition. They can offer key replacement services that don't harm the ignition of your car. They can also offer advice on how to avoid further damage. Keep both pieces of your damaged car key will allow them to understand the original form of the key, and they can create a precise duplicate for you.
The process of getting a new key
There are a few things you can try when your car keys break. It is important to remember that you should not force a broken key into an ignition or lock. This could cause further damage and lead to costly repairs. Instead, it is best to call locksmiths immediately for a professional solution.
If your key plastic top hasn't broken completely, you can try wrapping it in clear tape to provide support and prevent further breakage. Super glue is another option. To achieve this, you'll need to clean the broken pieces before applying an amount of super glue. Once the glue has dried you can attempt to press the pieces back together and hope that your key will work.
Alternatively, you can call the dealership to request the replacement key. This is a good option since you'll get an exact key that is connected to your vehicle and that is correctly paired with the vehicle. It will typically cost more than a locksmith service, but could be the fastest and easiest solution to your problem.
A professional locksmith will be able to supply you with a spare key which can be handy in case of future emergencies. You can also lower the possibility of your key breaking down in the future by taking care of it, using the key protector and having a plan for emergencies.
It can be frustrating to have a broken car key, particularly if you're trying to start your car, but it isn't starting. It can be tempting to take matters by yourself, but DIY fixes often fail and lead to problems with locks and ignition systems. Furthermore when your key is in the ignition, and you push it even further this could damage the key fob battery or cause other issues that require expensive repair. For these reasons, it is always best to contact a professional. An experienced automotive locksmith can quickly and effectively resolve the problem without causing damage to your car or causing more problems.