Have you ever been stuck in the middle of nowhere with a broken key stuck in your ignition cylinder? It can be a real headache, not knowing how to remove it. Don’t worry – we’re here to help! In this blog post, we will show you how to safely and effectively remove a broken key from an ignition cylinder.
Assess the Situation
Before attempting to remove the broken key from the ignition cylinder, it is important to assess the situation. It is important to determine whether the key is broken inside the cylinder or still in the lock itself. If the key is still inside the lock, it may be possible to extract it without a tool. If the key is broken inside the cylinder, then a tool will be required to remove it. It is also advisable to check if there are any other broken pieces of the key inside the cylinder, as these will need to be removed too.
Gather the Tools
To begin the process of removing a broken key from an ignition cylinder, it is necessary to gather the tools and materials needed for the job. The most important item for this task is a penetrating oil such as WD-40, which can help to lubricate the keyhole and make it easier for the broken key piece to slide out. Additionally, a broken key extractor tool should also be obtained. This tool usually has a single or double-hooked design and can be inserted into the keyhole above the spot where the key snapped off. With all of the necessary tools and materials gathered, it is time to begin the process of extracting the broken key from the ignition cylinder.
Locate the Broken Key
Now that you have gathered the tools you need, it’s time to locate the broken key. It is important to identify where the broken key is located before attempting to remove it. If you cannot locate the broken key, use a flashlight to help you better see inside the ignition cylinder. Once you have identified where the broken key is located, you can begin the process of removing it.
Insert a Screwdriver Into the Ignition
Now that you have determined the broken key is within the ignition cylinder, the next step is to insert a screwdriver into the ignition. This will create more room in the cylinder so that you can insert a hook to pull out the broken key. Make sure to use a small screwdriver as a large one may cause further damage. Make sure to insert the screwdriver only halfway into the cylinder and do not force it any further.
Push a Hook Into the Ignition
Once the broken key has been located, the next step is to insert a hook into the ignition cylinder. This hook should be placed just above where the key is broken so that it can be used to pull out the broken piece. When the hook is inserted, be sure to hold the hook steady while gently pulling out the broken key piece. If done correctly, it should slide out without too much difficulty.
Pull Out the Broken Key
Once the hook is in, you can now easily pull out the broken key from the ignition cylinder. Take precaution as you do so, as the broken pieces of the key may hurt your hands. Place the pieces of the broken key in a safe place, as you will need to take it to a locksmith for a replacement.
Replace the Ignition Cylinder
Once the broken key has been removed from the ignition, it is time to replace the entire cylinder. To do this, remove the two screws that hold the cylinder in place. Then, take out the cylinder and insert a replacement one. Make sure that it is properly aligned and all its components are securely in place before inserting a new key.
Insert a Replacement Key
After successfully removing the broken key, it’s time to insert a replacement key. You can purchase a new key from your local auto parts store, or order one online. If you already have a spare key, you can use that. Before inserting the key, make sure the ignition is fully unlocked. Insert the key and turn it slightly to the right and left to ensure that the lock has engaged. Once you are sure that the new key is working correctly, you can safely start your car.
Test That It Works
After you have successfully removed the broken key, it is important to check that the replacement key works. Insert it into the ignition cylinder and try to turn it. You should feel a smooth, consistent resistance when turning the key. If the key turns freely and starts the car, then you have successfully removed the broken key and replaced it with a working one.
Preventive Measures to Avoid Broken Keys
Once you’ve successfully removed the broken key from your ignition cylinder, you’ll want to take steps to ensure it doesn’t happen again. There are several preventive measures you can take to avoid broken keys in the future. First, make sure you’re using the right type of key for your vehicle. Different types of keys may fit in the same keyhole, but they may not offer the same level of security and could be more prone to breakage. Second, keep your car keys away from extreme temperatures, which can cause them to expand or contract and potentially break. Finally, keep your car keys out of reach of children and pets, who can also cause them to break. By following these simple steps, you can help keep your car keys intact and avoid being stranded with a broken key in your ignition cylinder.