How to Repair Broken Car Keys
If your car keys break, you need a solution quickly. You can either wait for the dealer to give you a replacement, which is inconvenient, or you can find other options to get around, like taking public transportation or relying on friends to take you around.
If you've got the right tools, you can do some DIY fixes. These include needle-nose pliers and penetrating oil.
Assessing the Damage
It's a nightmare to get in your car and realize that your ignition key is damaged. It's a common problem that can strike anyone and it can be very stressful when you're in a hurry to get to where you need to be.
The first thing you must do is take your breath deeply and try not to be overly anxious. If you remain calm, you'll be able to make more informed decisions and avoid worsening the damage.
Examine the key that was damaged to determine which components are still intact, and how much is in the ignition cylinder or lock. If the damaged part is inside the lock, you can spray a lubricant like WD-40 to loosen it up and make it easier to take it off. If the damaged part is located in the ignition, it is necessary to remove it with an instrument that is specifically designed for this purpose, known as an extractor for keys.
If the key is inside the key ring, you can try to bend it back into place by using pliers. key fob repairs can be a challenge particularly if the break is near one of the connectors. If you're unable to bend it back into place, you can use a paperclip to grasp the end of the key and pull straight outward.
If you attempt to force the key into the ignition, it will cause more damage. It may become impossible to remove. If you're unable to remove the broken key, it's recommended to call a professional locksmith or visit your local car dealership.
Many different hacks are available online that claim to fix broken car keys, however certain methods can cause the problem to get worse. For instance, trying to remove a broken key with a screwdriver may push it deeper into the ignition, and could even cause damage to the lock. To avoid this, never insert anything other than a tool made for removing keys from the keyhole.
Removing the Broken Part
A car key is delicate and may break inside the ignition after a an unintentional bump or prolonged use. It isn't easy to fix this issue without the help of an expert. You could cause more damage by attempting to fix the broken key. Super glue and other methods are not recommended because they can be difficult to remove and may cause further damage to the ignition cylinder.
Using a magnet to remove the broken key is not a good idea. Magnets can damage electrical components in the ignition cylinder which makes it harder to remove the broken key. Another common mistake can lead to a damaged key. This happens when you exert too much force or perform sudden movements to turn the car key.
If the key fragment is still visible, pliers or tweezers can be used to grab it and remove it. If the key is stuck in the ignition but is not visible, a small hacksaw blade or other thin-profile tool can be wedged into the ignition to grasp the edges of the broken car key and then pull it out.
You can also use penetrating oils to reduce friction and lubricate friction in the keyhole. If you apply the oil and allow it to sit for a few minutes, it can help in the removal of a broken key fragment. If the oil isn't working then a key extractor could be used to remove the car key that is broken from the ignition.
If the key has completely damaged in the ignition then a locksmith will be required to cut a replacement. A professional locksmith will reassemble the other components and use them as a template to design the new key which will be as similar as possible to the original. This guarantees that the key works properly and minimizes any risk of misalignment in the lock or ignition. This could lead to further issues which can require costly and time-consuming repair. It is recommended to regularly check and replace car keys is recommended to prevent them from becoming worn out or damaged.
Remove the Broken Blade from the Ignition
You could cause more damage if you push the key into the ignition. Instead, search for tools you may have around your home to try and get it out in a safe way.
Tweezers can save the day in this situation. They can grab onto a broken car key piece and help remove it. There are also dental picks, which are thin pointed tools that could be used. You can also use a wire coat hanger, that is flexible enough to fit in the lock. You might try tapping the metal against the surface to loosen a broken key.
You can also make use of the mini hacksaw, which is readily available in a majority of hardware stores. It is less thick than the screwdriver and can be inserted into the lock to secure to the broken car key. This might be enough to pull it out without causing damage to the ignition. You can also use thin needle-nosed pliers that can latch onto the broken car key. If you are using a tool such as this, ensure that you keep acetone or cotton swabs on hand to remove any remaining glue from the point.
It is not a good idea to use magnets to remove a damaged car key. Magnets aren't designed to be used 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 difficult to remove them.
After you've removed the key, make sure to check the ignition for any visible signs of damage. If you do notice any cracks or bends you should contact an expert locksmith. They can provide key replacement services that won't harm the ignition of your car. They can also offer tips on how to avoid further damage. The two pieces of your broken car key will allow them to better understand the original shape of the key, and they can make a exact duplicate for you.
How do I obtain a new key
If your car key is damaged There are a few things you can do. The most important thing to keep in mind is not to insert your broken key into the ignition or lock, as this can cause further damage and lead to more expensive repairs in the future. Instead, it is best to call locksmiths immediately for a professional assistance.
If your key plastic top hasn't broken completely, you can try wrapping it with clear tape to give it support and prevent further breakage. Super glue is another alternative. To do this, clean the broken pieces and apply a tiny dab of super glue to each. Once the glue dries, you can try pressing the pieces again and hopefully get your key to work.
You can also contact the dealer to request an alternative key. This is a great option because you'll receive a key that is matched to your car and is properly connected to the vehicle. Usually it will cost more than using an locksmith service, however it could be the fastest and most effective solution to your problem.
A professional locksmith will also be able to provide you with a spare key, which is useful in case of future emergencies. You can lessen the chance of your key breaking by taking care of it, by using key protectors and a plan for emergencies.
A break in a car key can be frustrating, especially when you attempt to start your car only to discover that it isn't turning over. It's tempting to take things by yourself however, DIY fixes usually result in misalignments that damage locks and ignition systems. If you put your key in the ignition, it can damage the keyfob battery or cause problems that require expensive repairs. For these reasons, it is recommended to seek a professional solution. A skilled locksmith for your car can quickly and effectively resolve the issue without damaging your vehicle or causing additional issues.