How to Repair Broken Car Keys
If your car key is damaged and you require an immediate solution. You can either wait for the dealer to give you a new key which can be a hassle or you can find other options to travel, such as taking public transportation or relying on friends to take you around.
You may try a few DIY fixes however, only if have the right tools. You can use penetrating oils and needle-nosed pliers.
Assessing key repairs to be about to get into your car and realize that the ignition key is broken. It's a problem that can happen to anyone, and can be a stressful experience if you're in the rush to get to your destination.
The first thing you should do is to take your breath deeply and try not to panic. If you stay calm you'll be able make better decisions and avoid causing more damage.
Examine the broken key again to determine what parts are still intact and how much is inside the lock or ignition cylinder. If the broken part is in the lock you can spray a lubricant such as WD-40 to loosen it up and make it easier to remove. If the broken piece is located in the ignition, you'll need to take it out by using a special tool called key extractor.
If the key is inside the key ring, you can try to bend the key back with pliers. This can be a challenge particularly if the break is near one of the connectors. If you are unable to get it bent back in the correct position, use a clip and pull it 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 are unable to get rid of the damaged key, you should seek out a professional locksmith, or visit your local car dealership.
There are numerous methods online that claim to fix a damaged car key, however some of them can actually make the situation worse. If you try to remove a damaged car key with a screwdriver, it can push the key deeper into the ignition. It may even harm the lock. To avoid this, do not insert anything other than a tool specifically designed to remove keys into the keyhole.
Removing the Broken Part
Car keys are brittle and even a small impact or excessive use can cause them break off inside the ignition. This kind of issue could be difficult to fix without the assistance of a professional locksmith. You may cause further damage by attempting to fix the broken key. Super glue or other hacks should not be used as they are difficult to remove and may cause further damage to the cylinder of your ignition.
It is also a bad choice to use a magnet to remove the broken key. Magnets can cause damage to electrical components in the ignition cylinder and make it more difficult to remove the broken key. Another common error could result in a broken key. This happens when you use excessive force or make abrupt movements to turn the key in your car.
If the key fragment is visible and exposed, pliers or tongs can be used. If the key is not visible and is stuck in the ignition, a small hacksaw or other thin-profiled tool can be wedged to grasp the edge and 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 few minutes will aid in the removal of the broken key fragment. If the oil does not work, you can employ a key extractor to remove the broken key fragment from the ignition.
A locksmith will need to replace the key if it's completely damaged in the ignition. A locksmith will reassemble all components and employ the template to make keys that are as close to the original as is possible. This process ensures that the new key will work properly and minimizes the risk of misalignment within the lock or ignition system. This can cause further problems that need costly and time-consuming repair. It is recommended to regularly check and replace car keys to ensure they are not damaged or worn out to the point of breaking.
Remove the broken blade from the Ignition
If you're lucky enough to have the key part, don't put it in the ignition or you could cause further damage. You can use any tool you own to remove it in a safe manner.
Tweezers can be a lifesaver in this scenario. 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 can be inserted inside the lock. You can tap the metal against the surface to loosen a broken key.
Another alternative is to make use of the mini hacksaw blade which you can usually find in hardware stores. It is smaller than a screwdriver and it can be inserted into the lock and secure the broken car key piece. This may suffice to get it out without damaging the ignition. You can also use needle-nosed pliers to latch onto the broken car key. If you're considering an instrument like this, make sure to keep acetone and cotton swabs handy to remove any glue from the tip of the pliers once you've removed it.
It's not a good idea to use magnets to take out the damaged car key. Magnets should not be used near an ignition, as they could cause damage to electrical components. They can also push the broken key fragments deeper into the ignition, making it more difficult to remove them.
After you've removed your key, you must inspect the ignition for any obvious signs of damage. If you notice cracks or bending you should contact a professional locksmith. They can repair your keys without damaging the ignition of your car. They can also provide tips on how to avoid further damage in the near future. The two pieces of your damaged car key will help them better understand the original shape of the key, and they can make a precise copy for you.
How do I obtain an additional key
When your car key breaks, there are a few things that you can do. The most important thing to remember is to never force your broken key into the lock or ignition, as this can cause further damage and lead to more costly repairs in the future. It is recommended to contact an expert locksmith for a fix.
Covering the cap of plastic on your key with clear tape will give support and protect against further damage. Another option is to apply super glue. To do this, you will have to clean the broken pieces prior to applying an amount of super glue. After the glue is dry, you can try to press the pieces back together and hope that your key will work.
You can also contact the dealer to request a replacement key. This can be a good option since it ensures that you get an exact match to your vehicle and that the key is properly connected to the vehicle. This is usually more expensive than a locksmith service, but may be the fastest and easiest solution to your issue.
A professional locksmith will also give you an additional key that will come in handy if you encounter an emergency. You can lessen the chance of your key breaking by taking care of it, using key protectors and a plan for emergencies.
It can be frustrating to find a damaged car key, especially if you're trying to start your car but it will not start. It's tempting to take things by yourself but DIY fixes typically backfire and can lead to problems with locks and ignition systems. In addition, if your key is in the ignition, and you force it further it could damage the key fob battery or cause other issues that require costly repair. In these circumstances, it is recommended to seek a professional solution. A professional locksmith for automotive can quickly and effectively solve the issue without causing any damage to your vehicle or causing any further issues.