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A broken car key is a problem for many reasons. Not only does it mean that you will not be able to use your car for a while, but it is often also a very expensive repair. It is impossible to fix a broken key on your own. To get it done, you have to visit a locksmith or a mechanic. Sometimes they can fix the original key, and sometimes they will have to make a new one.

Instructions

1

Inspect the broken pieces of the key. Make sure all pieces are present. If some of the key broke off inside the lock, you will have to hire a mechanic to remove the broken pieces from the ignition before the new key will work.

2

Locate the VIN number of your vehicle as well as the make and model information. You will need this information to order a replacement key.

3

Call a local vehicle locksmith or the dealer for your car. Give them the vehicle information of your car. Ask for an estimate of the cost of making a replacement key. Not all locksmiths will be able to reproduce all car keys, but if they can, they are often less expensive than ordering a key through the dealer. Car keys can cost up to $200 for one replacement. This is due to the safety technology used to make the key work in your specific car only.

4

Ask the dealer or locksmith if they are able to make a temporary key for your vehicle while the new key is made. Some locksmiths may be able to repair your current broken key well enough to work for a few days while you wait for the replacement key.

In general, if your car needs to pass a state inspection, all parts must be in working order. There are some exceptions to that rule. If you are unsure, check your states inspection code.

Broken Lights

In most states requiring a vehicle inspection, including Maryland, Virginia and Pennsylvania among others, all factory original parts of the car, including fog lights, must be in working order. However, in New York State, a broken fog light will not cause a vehicle to be rejected.

Safety Check

If fog lights are required to be in working order, broken plastic or glass on the fog light will definitely get you a fail, as will improper bulbs. Most inspectors are looking for safety concerns when they check the fog lights. A small crack or sealant issue may cause the glass to cloud, which can change the light, causing a safety issue. Cracks and missing chunks also divert or brighten the light. At the same time, a wrong bulb could create the same effect.

Other Options

If your after-market fog lights are broken, you may remove the lights as they are not required in most jurisdictions. Make sure you do not leave hanging wires or switches.

Dealing with a broken hood latch cable can be extremely frustrating, especially if you need to access the engine compartment to jump start the vehicle, add fluids or perform a repair. The hood latch cable runs from the hood latch down the inside of the fender, and through the firewall to the hood latch release lever. In order to replace the cable, youll first need to gain access to the engine compartment. In this situation, you can manually actuate the hood latch mechanism from underneath the vehicle.

Instructions

1

Shut off the engine and pull the parking brake lever to engage the brake. Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels.

2

Raise the drivers side of the vehicle near the wheel with a jack, and then place a jack stand underneath the frame. Raise the passenger side of the vehicle near the wheel and place a jack stand underneath the frame. Check both stands to make sure they are secure.

3

Move underneath the vehicle on a mechanics creeper and locate the hood latch with a work light. Its above the front radiator fans, on top of the radiator core support.

4

Locate the hood latch cable where it terminates at the cable release lever. There is a small crimped steel ball on the end of the cable that threads through the cable release lever.

5

Pry on the release lever with a large flat-head screwdriver in the direction of the cable to open the hood. This forces the lever toward the cable, the same way it would move if it was being pulled by the cable.

Depending on the extent of damage to your car key, there is a chance that it is fixable. If the actual metal piece of the key itself is broken your key cannot be fixed. If the key fob to your car is broken you can have it looked at and repaired by your vehicles dealership if the problem isnt too severe. To find out if your key is fixable, contact your vehicles dealership.

Instructions

1

Call your vehicles dealership. Give the dealership the make, model and year of your vehicle and tell them your key is broken and in need of repair.

2

Explain the issue in full detail to the mechanic at the dealership. The more information you are able to give the mechanic the better. The mechanic might have some do-it-yourself solutions for you to try on your key depending on what you tell her about the problem your key is having.

3

Try all of the solutions given to you by the mechanic. If one works you wont need to take your key to the dealership for repair. If nothing works, schedule an appointment to have your key looked at.

4

Take your key to the dealership. From this point, the dealership mechanics will dictate your course of action. Your key may simply need a new battery and youll be able to return home immediately. If your problem is more severe and your keys wont be repaired the same day you might be without a car, or your dealer might issue a loaner vehicle to you. It all depends on your keys issue and your dealerships policies.