How to Repair Broken Car Keys
If your car key is damaged you'll need an immediate solution. You can either wait for the dealership to give you a replacement which can be a hassle or you can find other options to get around, like using public transportation or asking friends for rides.
If you've got the right tools, you can perform some DIY fixes. You can make use of penetrating oils and needle-nosed pliers.
Assessing the Damage
There's nothing more annoying than getting in your car to head out and then finding that your key has broken in the ignition. It's a common problem that can occur to anyone, and can be a major stressor when you're trying to get to where you need to be.
Take a deep breath and don't panic. Staying calm will allow you to make logical decisions and avoid further damage.
Examine the key you broke to determine which components are still intact and how much of it is in the ignition cylinder or lock. If the broken part is inside the lock, you can spray a lubricant like WD-40 to loosen it and make it easier to take it off. If the broken part is located in the ignition, you'll need to take it out using a specific tool known as a key extractor.
If the key is still in the ring, you may try to bend the key back with pliers. This can be difficult to accomplish, particularly if the broken point is located near one of the connectors. If you are unable to bend it back into its place then you can make use of a paperclip to grab the end of the key and pull straight outward.
If you try to force the key into the ignition, it will cause more damage. It could even become impossible to remove. If you're unable to remove the broken key, you should contact a professional locksmith or visit your local car dealership.
There are many different hacks online that claim to fix broken keys to cars, but certain methods can make the situation worse. For example, trying to remove a damaged or broken key with a screwdriver can force it into the ignition and even cause damage to the lock. To avoid this, you should not put anything else in the keyhole besides a special tool specifically designed to remove car keys.
Removing the Broken Part
A car key is delicate and could be damaged inside the ignition by a slight bump or excessive use. This kind of issue can be difficult to fix without the help of a professional locksmith. You could cause further damage by trying to fix the broken key. Super glue and other hacks are not recommended since they are difficult to remove and may cause further damage to the ignition cylinder.
It's also a bad thing to use a magnet to remove the broken key. Magnets can damage electrical components in the ignition cylinder, making it more difficult to get rid of the damaged key. Using excessive force or sudden movements when attempting to turn the key is a common error that can lead to a broken car key.
If the key fragment is visible and exposed, pliers or even tongs can be employed. If the key is not visible and is stuck in the ignition, smaller hacksaws or any other thin-profiled tool can be wedged in order to grab the edge and then pull it out.
Another option is to use penetrating oil to lubricate the keyhole and reduce friction. Applying the oil and allowing it to sit for a few minutes can help in the removal of the broken key fragment. If the oil isn't working then a key extractor could be used to extract the damaged car key from the ignition.
A locksmith will need to replace the key if it is completely damaged in the ignition. A professional locksmith will reassemble the other pieces and use the parts as a template to create the new key which will be as close as possible to the original. 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 keys to cars is recommended to stop them from becoming worn out or damaged.
Remove the broken blade from the Ignition
If you're lucky enough to still have the key piece, don't force it into the ignition or you could cause further damage. You can use any tools you have at home to remove it safely.
Tweezers are a lifesaver in this scenario. They can grasp a damaged piece of car key and help you get it out. Additionally, dental picks are small pointed tools that are able to work. You could also try coat hangers made of wire, which is flexible enough to fit inside the lock. You might want to try tapping the metal on a solid surface before to avoid jarring the key that has been broken loose.
You can also make use of a mini hacksaw, which is available in most hardware stores. It is smaller than a screwdriver, and it is able to slip into the lock and secure the car key that is broken. This may suffice to get it out without damaging the ignition. You can also use needle-nosed pliers that can attach to the damaged car key. If you are using a tool such as this, ensure that you have cotton swabs or acetone in your arsenal to remove any glue that remains from the point.
One important thing to be aware of is that using magnets to remove a broken car key is a bad idea. Magnets aren't made to be employed near the ignition and can cause further damage to the electrical components inside. They can also push broken key fragments deeper into the ignition, making it difficult to remove.
After you've removed the key, you must inspect the ignition for any obvious indications of damage. If you do notice any cracks or bending, it's best to call an expert locksmith. They can offer key replacement services that won't cause damage to your vehicle's ignition. They can also offer advice about how to prevent any further damage in the future. Keeping both pieces of your damaged car key will help them understand the original form of the key, and also help them make a precise copy for you.
Finding remote car key repairs
There are a few options you can try if your car key breaks. The most important thing to keep in mind is not to force your broken key into the ignition or lock as this can cause further damage and could lead to more costly repairs in the future. It is better to call locksmiths immediately to get a professional solution.
Wrapping the plastic cap of your key with clear tape will provide support and prevent further damage. 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 attempt to press the pieces together again and hopefully get your key to work.
You can also contact the dealer to request an alternative key. remote car key repairs is a great option because you'll receive a key that is matched to your car and is properly paired to the vehicle. In general this will cost you more than a locksmith service, but it may be the most efficient and most effective solution to your issue.
A professional locksmith can also give you an additional key that will be useful if you ever have to face an emergency. You can also reduce the possibility of your key breaking in the near future by taking care of it, using the key protector and having a plan for emergencies.
A damaged car key can be difficult, especially when you try to start your car only to find that it won't turn over. DIY fixes could backfire, and cause misalignments that can damage ignition systems as well as locks. If you force your key into the ignition, it may harm the battery in the keyfob, or cause problems that require costly repairs. This is why it is best to contact a professional. A professional locksmith for cars will be able to quickly and efficiently resolve the issue without causing damage to your vehicle or causing further problems.