How to Repair Broken Car Keys
If your car keys break, you need urgent help. You can wait for a replacement from the dealership, but that's not practical. Or, you can find another way to get around.
If you have the proper tools, you can do some DIY fixes. They include needle-nose pliers, as well as penetrating oil.
Assessing the damage
It can be a bit frustrating to drive off and discover that the ignition key is broken. It's an issue that can occur to anyone, and can be stressful if you're in a rush to get to your destination.
The first thing you need to do is take your breath deeply and try not to panic. If you stay calm, you'll be able to make more informed choices and avoid further damage.
Then, you should examine the damaged key to see what remains of the key and how much of the break is inside the lock or the ignition cylinder. Spray WD-40 or other fluid on the area, where the broken part is within the lock. This will loosen the piece and make it easier to remove. If the broken piece is in the ignition, you'll need to remove it by using a special tool called the key extractor.
If the key is inside the key ring, you can try to bend it back into place by using pliers. This isn't easy particularly if the break is near one of the connectors. If you are unable to get it bent back into its place it is possible to use a paperclip to grasp the end of the key and pull straight outward.
The attempt to force the key into the ignition will result in more damage and make it impossible to take it out. If you are unable to get rid of the broken key, you should seek out a professional locksmith, or visit the dealership for your car.
Many different hacks are available online that claim to fix broken keys to cars, but some can actually cause the problem to get worse. If you attempt to remove a broken car key using a screwdriver it could push the key further into the ignition. It could even damage the lock. To avoid this, never insert anything other than a tool specifically designed to remove keys into the keyhole.
Take out the broken part
Car keys are delicate, and a slight impact or use can cause them to break off inside the ignition. This type of problem can be difficult to fix without the assistance of an expert locksmith. If you attempt to repair the damaged key on your own could cause further damage. Super glue and other methods are not recommended because they can be hard to remove and could cause further damage to the ignition cylinder.
Utilizing a magnet to take out the broken key is not a good idea. Magnets can damage the electrical components of the ignition cylinder, making it more difficult to get the broken key piece out. Another common mistake can lead to a broken key. This is when you apply too much force or make abrupt movements to turn the car key.
If the key's fragment remains visible and exposed, pliers or even tongs can be used. If the key is stuck in the ignition and not visible, a small hacksaw blade or another tools with a thin profile can be inserted into the ignition to grab the edges of the broken car key and pull it out.
Another option is to use penetrating oil to provide lubrication to the keyhole and reduce friction. If you apply the oil and allow it to sit for a couple of minutes, it can help in the removal of the broken key fragment. If the oil doesn't work it is possible to use a key extractor that can be used to extract the damaged car key from the ignition.
If the key has completely broken off in the ignition then a locksmith is required to cut a new one. A locksmith will reassemble all parts and use the template to create an ignition key that is as like the original as is possible. This ensures that the new key functions correctly and reduces the chance of misalignment in the lock or ignition system. This could lead to further issues that need costly and time-consuming repair. It is recommended to regularly check and replace the keys on your car to ensure they are not damaged or worn to the point of breaking.
Removal of the Broken Blade from the Ignition
You could cause more damage if force the key into the ignition. Instead, look for any tools you may have around your home to attempt to remove it in a safe manner.
In this case Tweezers can be a lifesaver. They can grasp onto a broken car key piece and assist in removing it. You can also find dental picks, which are thin pointy tools that may be useful. You can also use a flexible wire coat hanger that fits inside the lock. You can tap the metal against a solid surface to loosen the broken key.
Another alternative is to use the mini hacksaw blade that you will typically find in hardware stores. It is smaller than a screwdriver, and can be put into the lock to hold on to the broken car key.
key fob repairs may be enough to take it off without damaging the ignition. You could also try using needle-nose pliers that are thin and able to attach to the damaged car key piece. If you are using a tool such as this, ensure that you have cotton swabs or acetone available to eliminate any glue that remains from the tip.
One thing to keep in mind is that using magnets to replace a damaged car key is a bad idea.
key fob repairs should not be used near an ignition as they could cause damage to electrical components. They can also push broken pieces of the key deeper into the ignition, making it harder to remove them.
After you've pulled the key part out, you should inspect the ignition to see whether there are any visible signs of damage. Call a locksmith if you notice any cracks in the ignition. They can offer key replacement services that won't harm the ignition of your car. They can also offer tips on how to avoid further damage in the near future. Keep both pieces of your broken car key will help them understand the original form of the key, and they can make a exact duplicate for you.
How do I get an additional key
There are a few options you can try when your car key is broken. The most important thing to keep in mind is not to insert your broken key into the lock or ignition, because this could cause further damage and could lead to costly repairs in the future. Instead, it is recommended to contact an locksmith immediately to get a professional solution.
If your key plastic top isn't completely broken You can wrap it in clear tape to give it support and stop further damage. Another alternative is to apply super glue. To do this, wash the broken pieces and apply a tiny dab of super glue to each. After the glue has dried, you can try to press the pieces together, and hopefully your key will work.
You can also call the dealership for a replacement key. This could 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 more than a locksmith service, but it could be the fastest and easiest way to solve your problem.
A professional locksmith will be able to provide you with a spare key which can be useful in the event of a future emergency. You can minimize the risk of your key being damaged by taking good care of it, by using key protectors and a plan for emergencies.
A break in a car key can be very frustrating, especially when you try to start your car but discover that it isn't turning over. DIY fixes can backfire, and cause misalignments that can damage ignition systems as well as locks. If you force your key into the ignition, it may cause damage to the battery of the keyfob or cause problems that require costly repairs. For these reasons, it is best to seek out a professional solution. A professional locksmith for cars can quickly and effectively resolve the problem without causing damage to your car or causing further problems.