How to Repair Broken Car Keys

You need a quick solution when your car keys break. You can wait for a replacement at the dealership, but that's inconvenient. You can also locate a different method of getting around.

If you've got the right tools, you can make some DIY fixes. 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 the ignition key is broken. It's a problem that can occur to anyone, and it can be stressful if you're hurry to get to your destination.

Take a deep breath and don't get stressed. If you're calm, you'll be able to make more informed choices and avoid further damage.

Then, look over the key that is broken to determine what remains of the key and how much of the damage is in the lock or ignition cylinder. If the broken part is in the lock, you can spray a lubricant like WD-40 over the area to loosen it and make it easier to take it off. If the broken piece is in the ignition, you'll need to take it out by using a special tool called the key extractor.

If the key is in the key ring, try to bend it back into place by using pliers. This is a challenging task, especially in the event of a break near the connector. If you cannot get it bent back in place, use a paperclip and pull straight outward.

If you attempt to force the key into the ignition, it could cause more damage. It may become impossible to remove. If you're not able to remove the damaged key, it's recommended to seek out a professional locksmith, or visit your car dealership.

There are a variety of hacks available online which claim to fix broken car keys, however some of them can actually make the situation worse. For instance, attempting to remove a broken key using a screwdriver could force it into the ignition and even cause damage to the lock. To avoid this, don't insert anything other than a device specifically designed for removing keys into the keyhole.

Take out the broken part

A car key is delicate and may break inside the ignition with a slight bump or excessive use. This kind of issue can be difficult to fix without the assistance of a professional locksmith. You could cause more damage by trying to repair the damaged key. Super glue and other methods are not recommended since they can be hard to remove and might cause further damage to the ignition cylinder.

Using a magnet to remove the broken key is a bad idea. Magnets can harm the electrical components of the ignition cylinder, making it harder to pull the damaged key piece out. Another common error could result in a broken key. This happens when you use excessive force or perform sudden movements to turn the key of your car.

If the key fragment is visible and exposed, pliers or even tongs can be employed. If the key is stuck in the ignition and not visible, a small hacksaw blade or another small-profile tool can be inserted into the ignition to grab the edge of the broken car key and then pull it out.

It is also possible to use penetrating oils to reduce friction and lubricate friction in the keyhole. Applying the oil and allowing it to sit for a few minutes can aid in the removal of the broken key fragment. If the oil does not work then a key extractor could be used to remove the broken car key from the ignition.

If the key is totally broken in the ignition then a locksmith will be required to cut a replacement. A locksmith will reassemble the parts and employ the template to make a key that is as similar to the original as possible. This method ensures that the new key will function well and minimizes the possibility of misalignment issues in the lock or ignition system. This could cause further problems that require expensive and time-consuming repairs. Regularly checking and replacing car keys is recommended to stop them from becoming worn or damaged.

Remove the broken blade from the Ignition

If you're fortunate enough to still have the key piece Don't put it in the ignition or you'll cause more damage. You can use any tool you have at home to take it out it in a safe manner.

In this case, tweezers are a lifesaver. how to repair car key fob can grasp the broken piece of car key and help pull it out. You can also find dental picks, which are thin pointy tools that may work as well. You could also try a wire coat hanger, that is flexible enough to fit in the lock. You could try tapping the metal against an unfinished surface to release the broken key.

Another alternative is to make use of an incredibly small hacksaw blade which you can usually find in hardware stores. It is less brittle than a screwdriver, and it can be inserted into the lock to secure the damaged car key piece. This could suffice to get 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're trying using a tool like this, make sure to have acetone and cotton swabs available to take any glue from the tip of the pliers after having removed it.

One important thing to be aware of is that using magnets to replace a damaged car key is a bad idea. Magnets aren't designed to be employed near the ignition and could cause further damage to the electrical components inside. They can also push broken key fragments further into the ignition, making it harder to remove them.


After you've pulled the key out, you should inspect the ignition to determine whether there are any visible indications of damage. If you do notice any cracks or bends it is recommended to contact a professional locksmith. They can provide key replacement services that won't harm the ignition of your car. They can also offer suggestions on how to prevent 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.

How do I obtain an additional key

If your car key is damaged there are a few things that you can do. It is important to remember that you should not force a broken key into a lock or ignition. This can cause more damage and lead to costly repairs. It is recommended to contact an expert locksmith to make a fix.

The cap of the plastic on your key with clear tape will provide support and protect against further damage. Super glue is another alternative. To do this, you will need to wash the broken pieces before applying the smallest amount of super glue. After the glue has dried, you can try to press the pieces together and hope that your key will work.

You can also call the dealership for the replacement key. This can be a good option because it will ensure that you have an exact match for your car and that the key is correctly connected to the vehicle. Typically this will cost you more than the services of a locksmith, but it may be the most efficient and most effective solution to your problem.

A professional locksmith will also give you an additional key that could help you if ever have to face an emergency. You can also lower the possibility of your key breaking in the near future by taking care of it with the key protector and having a backup plan in case of emergency.

It can be a hassle to find a damaged car key, especially when you're trying to start your car, but it isn't starting. It's tempting to take things by yourself but DIY fixes typically backfire and can lead to misalignments that damage locks and ignition systems. In addition, if your key is in the ignition, and you force it further this could cause damage to the battery of your key fob or cause other issues that require expensive repair. It is recommended to speak with a professional for these reasons. A professional automotive locksmith will quickly and effectively solve the issue without causing any damage to your vehicle or causing more problems.