10 Key Repair Tricks Experts Recommend

How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're rushing to get to work and put your keys in the ignition. Then you try to turn it, and it snaps off from the lock!
There are some things you can try to fix the issue before calling an experienced locksmith. Here are a few easy fixes:: 1. Super Glue.
1. Contact an expert locksmith
One of the worst things that could happen to a car owner is a damaged key in locks. This is particularly aggravating when the driver is in a rush to get somewhere, or pick up an infant. In this situation you must act swiftly to try to free the stuck key.
Contacting a professional locksmith is the best option, as they'll have the right tools and know how to remove the broken keys without damaging the lock. Many people are looking for something that is thin and rigid like paperclips or toothpicks. But, this is not the best solution as they are too heavy to fit into the lock.
A much better solution is to search for a pair of tweezers, since they are very thin and can easily reach the key hole within the lock. They should also be sturdy enough to hold the damaged part of the key and pull it out. If you don't own tweezers then you might consider searching for a set of key extractors, which are usually available in auto parts stores. They are narrow, flat and have tiny hooks. They can be put through the keyhole to grab the broken part of the key.
A magnetic key hook can be used to attach to the metal inside the lock and then remove it. This isn't always the best option since it could get caught in the lock and cause damage. In this instance it is best to contact a professional locksmith.
Some people try to stick the two pieces of their car key that have snapped together using superglue, thinking that this can help them to take it out of the lock. However, this could be extremely risky since the pieces of metal could snag on to one another and break apart again later on. It is also essential not to turn the key, because this could cause damage to the lock or the ignition cylinder. Call a professional locksmith to replace the broken key immediately.
2. Drill into a hole
Sometimes a key is broken inside the lock, and even with an extra key, you may not be capable of opening the door to your vehicle. In these cases drilling out the lock is the best option.
It is important to make sure that the keyhole is positioned for a basic tumbler. If it's not then you won't be able to drill the pins without damaging the door and potentially destroying the lock mechanism.
It is important to note that you'll drill through an outer layer of plastic as well as an inner layer of metal. You can drill through these layers using a a small drill bit, but you should not go deeper. Drilling too deep 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 when working with a drill. This will prevent dirt and dust from entering your lung.
It is also a good idea in the event that the key fragment is broken and is still sticking out of the lock, to have a pair pliers and tweezers in your bag. If site is protruding enough to be gripped with pliers and tweezers, it will be enough to get it out. If there isn't, however, you will require a tool such as this one to insert the tool inside the lock and then rotate it towards the key to grasp it and pull it out of the hole.
3. Drill a nail
You can be left stranded if you break your key in half. There are several ways to fix the problem without having to pay an locksmith. The first thing you can do is use the screw or nail. These are available at your home or in a hardware store. It is recommended to pick a nail as thin and as long as possible. This will allow you to fit it into the hole, and then use epoxy to connect the two pieces. Make sure that the back of the nails is flat. This will allow it to fit into the cut slot of the key. This will prevent it from moving and potentially breaking again in future.
4. Super Glue
Many car owners resort to DIY hacks, such as using super glue to fix a broken key. This is a dangerous method. You could end up ruining the lock and have to shell out more money for replacing it from the dealer or locksmith.
First, you need to take a look at the keys that have been damaged and ensure that they match each other in terms of size. This step is crucial to ensure that the glued pieces are properly aligned and that the key fits into the lock after they are bonded together. After that, you can use a piece of fine-grit sandpaper or a metal file to smooth out the edges on the damaged pieces of the key. This will strengthen the bond of glue and decrease the possibility of a key that is loose.
Once you have polished the edges of the damaged key, apply a small amount of super glue to one of the ends. Be careful not to use too much glue, as this could cause the key to become too thick and may be difficult to fit into the lock. Then, you can carefully place the two broken pieces of the key and press them together. After a few minutes, the glue will begin to set and bond the key fragments.
Another household item that can be used to help to remove a damaged car key is a paperclip or bobby pin that can be made into a pick-like device and inserted in the lock. This method is particularly useful if the break is near or inside the keyway or lock hole.
A car key that has been damaged with electronic components will need an entirely new key from the locksmith or dealer. The key will have to be reprogrammed using a new code, and the chip inside the key needs to be changed. If the shell or metal part of the key fails and needs to be replaced, you'll need to replace the cut. You don't have to reprogramme or replace the electronic components.