Have you ever broken a key? This is an accident that happens all too often and sometimes involves the car's ignition lock! Thankfully, it is possible to extract the fragments without having to call a blacksmith.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Remove the Wrench with the Wire
Step 1. Remove any obstruction from the ignition switch
Remove any debris that could prevent the key from being removed by using compressed air. Do not spray any detergent or lubricant, as it may damage the internal mechanism. This is especially true for new cars, which have special systems integrated into the boot block.
Step 2. Place the key stump back on the lock
This way, it will work as a guide to help you get to the stuck fragment.
Step 3. Run a thin wire along the edge of the broken key
Staples are a good solution; you can straighten them to fit them into the block. Sometimes, it is best to bend the end slightly to grab the fragment.
Step 4. Remove the outside of the key from the ignition
While doing this, be careful not to pull out the wire as well. You must leave them where they are until you have removed the fragment.
Step 5. Grab the piece of key located in the lock between the two wires
It is worth twisting them slightly to ensure a good grip. You will have to use them as if they were tweezers or Chinese sticks.
Alternatively, you can bend the ends downward so that the wires have more contact surface with the key fragment. By doing this, you will probably be able to grab it and extract it better
Step 6. Pull out the broken key piece
As you do this, move the strands up and down a bit to reduce the risk of further wedging the fragment.
Method 2 of 3: Open the Ignition Lock
Step 1. Use a pair of long, thin-tipped pliers to widen the opening of the block
Insert the tips into the key slot and then spread them apart to dilate it. You shouldn't use this method unless the shard is really very jammed, as it could ruin the lock. This technique gives you better access to the piece of key left inside.
Step 2. Grab the key fragment with pliers
Once the lock has been widened, you need to try to get what's left of the key. If the tips of the tool cannot reach the stump, you will need to use wire or tweezers.
Step 3. Extract the broken key
When you have managed to grab it, pull it straight out in a straight direction. At this point, you can use the spare key or buy a copy.
Method 3 of 3: Call a Locksmith
Step 1. Find a locksmith who specializes in ignition locks
You can search for it on the phone book or do an online search. There are also websites that allow you to contact a 24-hour emergency service.
Step 2. Call more than one professional
In general, locksmiths are available at all hours, although during holidays and at night the prices can rise enormously. For this reason, always ask for a quote over the phone and contact more than one craftsman to get the best price. Remember to specify that this is an ignition lock, as some locksmiths do not deal with these parts.
Step 3. Hire the professional of your choice
Once you have decided which company to rely on, call them back and ask to service your car.
Step 4. Replace the key
Regardless of the method you decided to use to extract the fragment, you still have a broken key. You will need to use the spare or purchase a copy.
