5 Key Repair Projects For Any Budget How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair

You're in a hurry to get to work, and jam your keys into the ignition. You try to turn it into a lock, and it snaps from the lock!

There are a few things you could try to fix the issue before calling an experienced locksmith. Here are some quick fixes. Super Glue.

1. Call a Locksmith

One of the worst things that can happen to the owner of a car is a damaged key in a lock. This can be particularly frustrating when the driver is trying to get somewhere, or drop off the child. In such a situation it is crucial to act swiftly and try to release the stuck key.


Calling an experienced locksmith is the best choice, because they'll have the right tools and know how to get rid of the broken keys without damaging the lock. Many people will have a look around the vehicle to find something light and sturdy like a paperclip, or toothpick, but these typically won't work since it is too thick to fit into the lock.

The best option is to find a pair of tweezers, as these are quite thin and easily reach the key hole inside the lock. They should also be rigid enough to grasp the broken part of the key and then pull it out. If you don't have tweezers, it could be worth looking for a set that is sold at auto parts stores. They are thin, flat and have hooks that are small. They can be put in the keyhole and take the broken portion of the key.

Another option is to locate a magnetic key hook that is able to be affixed to the metal inside the lock and be pulled out. This is not always the best option as it could get caught in a lock and cause more damage. In electronic car key repair is recommended to contact an experienced locksmith.

Some people try to join the two pieces of a damaged car key using superglue order to take it out of the lock. This is a risk because the pieces of metal could snag and break later. It is crucial not to turn the key, as this could cause further damage to the lock or ignition cylinder. Get a locksmith professional to replace the broken key on the spot.

2. Drill a hole

Sometimes, a key gets damaged inside the lock, and even with an extra key, you may not be able to gain access to your vehicle. A drill may be the best solution in these instances.

The first step is to make sure that the key hole is set up to accept a standard tumbler car key. If it's not it, you will not be able to drill the pins without damaging the door, and possibly destroying the internal lock mechanism.

Next, it is important to understand that you will be drilling through the outer layer of plastic and the inner metal layer. You can drill through these layers using a tiny drill bits, but you should not go any deeper. If you drill to deep, it could cause damage to the wiring harness or cause the drill bit to get stuck in the hole.

Wearing a protective mask or equipment is recommended when working with drilling. This will stop dust and dirt from getting into your lung.

It's also a good idea in the event that the key fragment is broken and is sticking out of the lock, to have pliers and tweezers handy. If the key is long enough to be able to be grasped with pliers and tweezers, this is enough to pull it out. If not, you'll have to use a tool such as this to encase it in the lock, and then rotate it towards the key to grab and take it out.

3. Drill a nail

You could be left without a home when you cut your key in half. There are a few solutions to fix it without having to pay for locksmith. The first step is use a screw or nail. These are available at your home or in a hardware store. It is best to choose nails that are as thin and long as you can. This way you can fit it into the hole, and then use epoxy to link the two pieces. It is also good to ensure that the back of the nail is flat. This will allow it to fit into the slot in the key. This will prevent it from moving around and breaking in the future.

4. Super Glue

Many auto owners resort to DIY hacks, such as using super glue to repair a damaged or broken key. This is a risky method. You could damage the lock, and then have to pay more money to replace it.

First, take a look at the broken keys and make sure that they are identical in terms of size. This step is crucial to ensure that the pieces are properly aligned and the key will fit into the lock once they are bonded together. After that, use the fine-grit sandpaper or a metal file to smooth the edges on the broken pieces of the key. This will help make the glue stick better and decrease the chance of a key falling loose in the future.

After finishing the edges, apply the smallest amount (about an amount of pea-sized) of super glue on one end. Use only the smallest amount of super glue, as too much could make the key too heavy. It will then be difficult to fit into the lock. Then, you can carefully align the two broken pieces of the key and press them together. After some time the glue will begin to set and bond the key fragments.

Another common household item that can be used to to remove a damaged car key is a bobby pin, which can be shaped into a pick-like tool, then inserted in the lock. This method is particularly helpful in the event that the broken part is close or inside the keyway or lock hole.

A broken car key with electronic components will require a new key from the locksmith or dealer. This is because the key needs to be programmed with a brand new code and the key chip will need to be replaced. If only the shell or metal part of the key fails, you will need to get a new cut. It is not necessary to reprogramme or replace electronic components.