How to Repair Broken Car Keys
There's a need for a quick fix when your car key breaks. You can wait for a replacement at the dealership, but it is not practical. You can also find a different way to get around.
If you've got the right tools, you can perform some DIY fixes. These include needle-nose pliers as well as penetrating oil.
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 happen to anyone, and it can be extremely stressful when you're trying to get to where you want to go.
The first thing you need to do is to take your breath deeply and try not to be overly anxious. Staying calm will allow you to make logical decisions and avoid further damage.
Then, you should examine the damaged key to see which parts are still in good condition and how much of the break is inside the lock or the ignition cylinder. If the damaged part is inside the lock, you can spray a lubricant like WD-40 over the area to loosen it and make it easier to remove. If the broken piece is in the ignition it is necessary to remove it with an instrument that is specifically designed for this purpose, known as a key extractor.
If car key and repair is still inside the key ring, you can try to bend the key back by using pliers. This can be difficult to accomplish, particularly if the broken point is located near one of the connectors. If you're unable to bend it back into position then you can make use of a paperclip to grab the end of the key and pull 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 remove a broken or damaged key, call a locksmith or visit the dealership for your car.
Many different hacks are available online which claim to fix broken keys to cars, but some can actually cause more damage. If you attempt to remove a damaged car key using a screwdriver it could push the key deeper into the ignition. It could even damage the lock. To avoid this, don't insert anything other than a tool specifically designed to remove keys into the keyhole.
Removing the Broken Part
Car keys are brittle, and a slight impact or overuse can cause them break in the ignition. This type of problem can be difficult to fix without the help of a professional locksmith. Attempting to repair the broken key yourself may result in more damage. Super glue and other methods are not recommended since they can be difficult to remove and could cause further damage to the ignition cylinder.
Utilizing a magnet to remove the broken key is not a good idea. Magnets can cause damage to the electrical components of the ignition cylinder, making it more difficult to get the damaged key out. Another common error can result in breaking the key. This happens when you use excessive force or make sudden movements to turn the car key.
If the key fragment is still visible, pliers or tweezers can be used to grip the key and pull it out. If the key is stuck in the ignition and is not visible, a small hacksaw blade or other tools with a thin profile can be inserted into the ignition to catch the edges of the broken car key and then pull it out.
Another option is to apply penetrating oil to provide lubrication to the keyhole and reduce friction. Applying the oil and allowing it to sit for a couple of minutes could help in the removal of the broken key fragment. If the oil isn't working then a key extractor could be used to remove the damaged car key from the ignition.
A locksmith will need to replace the key in the event that it is completely broken in the ignition. A locksmith will reassemble the parts and use the template to create an ignition key that is as similar to the original as possible. This ensures that the new key will work properly and minimizes the risk of misalignment in the lock or ignition system. This could lead to further issues, which will require expensive and time-consuming repairs. Regularly checking and replacing keys for cars is recommended to keep them from becoming worn out or damaged.
Removal of the Broken Blade from the Ignition
If you're lucky enough to still have the key part do not push it into the ignition, or you'll cause more damage. You can use any tools you have at home to take it out it with care.
Tweezers can be a lifesaver in this scenario. They can grasp onto a broken car key piece and assist in removing it. Additionally, dental picks are thin pointed tools that are able to be used. You can also use a wire coat hanger, that is flexible enough to fit inside the lock. You may want to consider tapping the metal on a hard surface first to avoid jarring keys that are broken loose.
You can also make use of the mini hacksaw, which is readily available in a majority of hardware stores. This is thinner than a screwdriver and it is able to slip into the lock to secure the broken car key piece. This might be enough to get it out without causing damage to the ignition. You can also use needle-nose pliers, which are very thin and can be able to latch on to the broken car key piece. If you are using a tool such as this, be sure to have cotton swabs or acetone in your arsenal to remove any glue that remains from the point.
One thing to remember is that using magnets to replace a damaged car key isn't a good idea. Magnets aren't made to be used near the ignition and could cause further damage to the electrical components within. They also can push the broken key fragments deeper into the ignition, making it harder to remove them.
Once you've gotten the key off and you're ready to inspect the ignition to see whether there are any obvious signs of damage. Call a locksmith if you notice any cracks in the ignition. They can provide key replacement services that don't damage your car's ignition. They can also provide tips on how to avoid any further damage in the future. 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 precise copy for you.
How do I obtain an additional key
There are a few options you can try if your car key is broken. It is crucial to keep in mind that you should not force a broken key into an ignition or lock. This could cause more damage and could result in costly repairs. Instead, it is recommended to contact an locksmith immediately for a professional solution.
If your plastic top isn't completely broken Try wrapping it in clear tape to give it support and prevent further breakage. Super glue is another alternative. To accomplish this, you'll need to clean the broken pieces before applying the smallest amount of super glue. After the glue is dry it is possible to attempt to press the pieces together again and hopefully get your key to work.
Alternatively, you can call the dealership for an alternative key. This is a good choice since you'll get keys that are matched to your vehicle and that is properly connected to the vehicle. Usually, this will cost more than an locksmith service, however it may be the quickest and most effective solution to your problem.
A professional locksmith will also be able to supply you with a spare key which is useful in the event of an emergency. You can also decrease the likelihood of your key breaking in the future by taking care of it, by using a key protector, and having an emergency plan.
A broken car key can be very frustrating, especially when you attempt to start your car but find it won't turn over. It is tempting to take the situation into your own hands however, DIY fixes usually backfire and can lead to misalignments that damage locks and ignition systems. Additionally when your key is in the ignition, and you force it to go further it could cause damage to the battery of your key fob or cause other issues that require costly repair. It is best to consult an expert for these issues. A professional automotive locksmith will quickly and efficiently resolve the issue without causing damage to your vehicle or causing more problems.