It can be frustrating and stressful if your car key broke—now you need to worry about how to start a car with a broken key or open the door lock. Indeed, DIY solutions exist, but there is a point where you need to call a locksmith to get a new key or get into your car.
For a fast solution, and for those who don’t want to worry about pulling out a broken key, calling a mobile auto locksmith is likely your best solution.
For those who want to try fixing it themselves, however, let’s talk about DIY solutions for getting your broken car key fixed along with the benefits of calling a locksmith (if you need to).
Car Key Broke in the Ignition? Here’s What to Do
It’s nerve-wracking to have your car key broken and not be able to make it to an important meeting or event. Keep your focus and do the following:
- Key stuck in the ignition? Safely remove the broken key piece: Use pliers or coated wire to carefully grip the broken part and gently wiggle it back and forth, until it comes out. But if you’re afraid you might damage the ignition, call a locksmith. They have key extractors for safe removal of broken keys.
- Check for any visible damage: Once you have removed the broken key, inspect the ignition lock for any visible damage. Look for cracks, chips, or bending in the ignition lock. If you notice any damage, call a local locksmith right away.
How to Fix Broken Car Keys Yourself
If you’re handy and comfortable with basic tools and have time to spare for fixing a broken car key yourself, here are a few DIY solutions for how to fix car keys (or some parts of them):
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- How to fix a snapped car key: Try applying a small amount of superglue to the broken edges if your car key broke in half. Carefully align the broken pieces and press them together. Allow the glue to dry completely before inserting the key into the ignition lock. Turn the key to see if it works.
- How to fix a broken car key fob: If it isn’t working because of a dead battery, you can replace the battery yourself. Just remove the key cap or cover and open the fob with a small screwdriver to access the battery. If the key fob has a loose or broken connection, try re-soldering the connections. You’ll need some basic soldering skills.
- How to fix a broken car key ring: If the key ring is broken near one of the connectors, use pliers to bend the connectors back together and secure them in place. If it’s broken in multiple places, try wrapping the key ring with a thin wire or fishing line to hold it together.
- How to fix a broken car key loop: Use thick wire or finishing nail as a replacement for your broken car key loop. Drill two holes into your key’s broken plastic loop for each end of the wire or nail. Cut the nail or wire to key width with pliers. Place a drop of superglue on each hole. Slide the nail or wire into the hole, closing the broken plastic loop. Let it dry.
- How to fix a broken car key plastic top: If the broken plastic top is still attached to the key blade, you can try wrapping it with clear tape to provide support and prevent further breakage. You can also use superglue. Clean the broken plastic top and apply a small amount of superglue. Press the two pieces together as you let the glue dry completely.
DIY methods may seem appealing because they are quick and inexpensive, but they are only a stopgap measure.
They also aren’t necessarily the best course of action. In the first place, if the key is deformed or otherwise severely damaged, what you can do at home isn’t up to the same quality as a locksmith’s work. Superglue, meanwhile, might not be enough to keep the key together for long.
If you want to make sure you won’t do more damage, find a replacement key. Better yet, call a locksmith to have your broken car key repaired or replaced.
Why Calling a Locksmith Is the Best Option
So you broke your car key and need one that works exactly like the original key. Calling a locksmith is the wiser choice because they have:
- Professional expertise: Thanks to their extensive training and experience, locksmiths have the expertise to fix any broken car key. Whether your key is stuck in your ignition, your car door, or is completely broken, a locksmith has the experience and toolset to address the problem right the first time.
- Access to advanced tools and technology: Locksmiths have advanced tools and technology that you may not have at home, such as lockpicks for automobiles. They have the right equipment for safe key removal, and they can replace your key with a new one that’s guaranteed to work.
- Avoid further damage to your ignition and door lock: By attempting to fix the issue yourself, you could do more harm than good, such as breaking your door lock or damaging the ignition. As a trained professional, a locksmith can guarantee that the ignition lock will not be damaged during the repair process.
Never Get Locked Out of Your Car Again
Call Chicago’s most trusted locksmith.
Automotive locksmiths like Quicksmith take pride in the experience and expertise with all types of car locks.
There’s no need to stress about how to fix a key that’s broken in half, just give us a call. Your locksmith is ready to help, day or night, and can replace and make new keys on the spot with their mobile key-making service.
How to Prepare for the Locksmith
Let’s say you broke your car key and have chosen to seek assistance. Be sure you have the following information ready:
- Make and model of the car
- Vehicle identification number (VIN)
- Year and color of the car
Having these details on hand will help the locksmith determine which type of key you need and make the broken car key replacement process faster and more convenient for you.
Get Back On the Road With Quicksmith
If you have a key that broke, attempting DIY solutions may be tempting. Depending on the fix, you’ll only need superglue, wires, tape, or pliers—no complicated tools. But be warned: these are temporary fixes. Plus, if you haven’t the slightest idea how to fix a car key that broke in half, for instance, you could do more harm to your ignition lock.
For guaranteed results and to avoid further damage, get professional help. Locksmiths have expertise, access to advanced tools and technology, and guarantee results.
It’s always wise to have a spare key in case of an emergency. But if your car key is broken in half or you’ve lost your car key, call Quicksmith now to get back on the road fast.