How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair

You're headed to work in hurry, and you jam your keys in the ignition. You try to turn the key, but it snaps in the lock.

There are several ways you can attempt to solve the issue before calling a locksmith. Here are a few quick fixes. Super Glue.

1. Call a Locksmith

A damaged key in the lock is among the most unpleasant things a vehicle owner could face. This is especially difficult if it happens while the driver is rushing to get to work or drop off a child. In this situation it is essential to act quickly and attempt to release the stuck key.

A locksmith with experience is the best option, as they will have the proper tools and know how to remove the keys that are broken without damaging the lock. Many people look around in their vehicle for something thin and rigid like a paperclip or toothpick, however this usually won't work as it's too heavy to fit into the lock.

The best solution is to look for a pair of tweezers as these are quite thin and easily reach the key hole in the lock. They should be rigid enough to grasp the broken piece of a key and then pull it out. If you don't own tweezers, it's worth looking for a set sold at auto parts stores. They are narrow and flat with hooks that are small enough to be placed into the key hole, and then hold on the broken piece of the key.

A magnetic key hook can be used to adhere to the metal in the lock, and then remove it. This isn't always the best choice as it could be caught under the lock and cause further damage. In this case, it is best to call locksmith.

Some people attempt to join two pieces of a damaged car key with superglue in order to get it out of the lock. This can be dangerous since the metal pieces could get caught and break later. It is also important not to turn the key as this can cause further damage to the lock or ignition cylinder. It is best to contact a professional locksmith who will be ready to take the broken key and create a replacement on the spot.

2. Drill through a hole

Sometimes a key breaks inside the lock, and even with a spare, you might not be in a position to gain access to your vehicle. In these instances, drilling out the lock is the best choice.


You will first want to make sure the keyhole is set for a basic tumbler key. If it's not there, you won't be able to drill the pins out and damage the lock's door or internal mechanism.

Next, it is important to understand that you'll be drilling through the outer plastic layer and an inner metal layer. A small drill bit will suffice to penetrate these layers, but you need to be sure not to go any deeper than that. If you drill too deeply, it can cause damage to the wiring harness, or cause the drill to become stuck.

It is also recommended to wear a face mask and protective gear while working using a drill. This will keep the dust and dirt from entering your lungs.

It is an excellent idea, in the event that the key fragment is broken and is still sticking out of the lock, to have pliers and tweezers handy. If the key is long enough to be gripped with pliers and tweezers, it will be enough to get it out. If there isn't, however you'll need to use a tool such as this one to wedge the tool inside the lock and then turn it toward the key to grip and pull it out of the hole.

3. Drill a Nail

If you break your car key in half, it can cause you to be stranded. Luckily, there are a few ways to fix it, without having to pay for locksmith. The first way is to use a nail or screw. They are available in your house or at a hardware store. But, it is best to try to find the nail that is as thin as it can be and as long as is possible. This means you can put it into the hole and then apply epoxy glue to join the two pieces. Make sure that the nail's back is flat. This will allow it to fit into the slot cut in the key. This will prevent it from moving and possibly breaking again in the future.

4. Super Glue

Many car owners resort to DIY hacks, such as using super glue to fix a broken key. This is a risky method. You could end up damaging the lock and have to spend more money on finding a replacement at the dealer or a locksmith.

It is important to examine the keys that are broken first, and ensure that they are of the same size. This step is essential to ensure that all the pieces of the glue are aligned properly and that the key will fit inside the lock once they have been joined. Then, use a piece of sandpaper with fine-grit or a metal file to smooth out the edges on the broken pieces of the key. This will improve the glue's bond and reduce the likelihood of a future key that is loose.

After polishing the edges, apply the smallest amount (about a pea-sized amount) of super glue on the other side. Be cautious not to apply too much glue, as this can cause the key to become too thick and it will be difficult to fit into the lock. Then, carefully place the two pieces of the key and press them together. After a few moments, the glue will begin to set and bond the key fragments.

A bobby-pin or a paperclip can also be used to remove a damaged key from an lock. key repair car Links to an external site. can be shaped as a pick, and then inserted into the lock. This technique is particularly useful in the event that the broken part is within or close to the keyway or ignition hole.

A broken car key with electronic components will need an entirely new key from the dealer or a professional locksmith. car key fob repair near me Links to an external site. is because the key will need to be programmed with a brand new code and the key chip needs to be replaced. If only the shell or metal part of the key breaks it will be necessary to replace the cut. It is not necessary to reprogramme or replace the electronics.