When the only copy of your key gets broken, most will begin to panic and wonder if a broken key can get copied. This is a common scenario and many people will begin calling or asking locksmiths if it is possible to copy their broken key. Texan Lock and Key is here to answer that question and should you break your key, how you can replace it.
Can You Make a Copy of a Broken Key?
With a few exceptions, in most cases the answer is yes; a broken key can get copied. The process of copying a broken key can vary as it will depend on the actual condition of the broken key. However, you don’t want to ask just any hardware store employee to copy a broken key because they don’t have the equipment to do that. You will typically need an actual locksmith.
How Do You Get a Key Cut from a Broken Key?
One of the simplest methods of coping broken keys is to insure you have all the piece of the key. However the most important part of the key that is needed to make the copy is the grooved blade or shank of the key. If your key broke off inside of a lock, you will want to remove the broken blade of the key in order to make the copy. However if the key is stuck and you are unable to remove it yourself, you will need to contact a locksmith to help you remove the broken key from out of the lock. If the key is beyond copying you can also ask a locksmith to come and do key replacement services.
Does the Type of Broken Car Key Matter?
This is another common question when it comes to copying a broken key. Yes, various key blanks are restricted. For example, car keys can’t always be easily copied. Older car keys are easier to copy than modern keys. Newer vehicles mostly use coded keys that contain a specific VIN that’s unique to each vehicle. Modern car keys can be copied if the key code is preserved.
Is it Easy to Copy a Broken House Key?
House keys are one of the easiest keys to copy. Most common cheap blank keys are easily copy. Even if the key broke in such a way that the pieces won’t line up with the key cutter a locksmith still can make a copy as stated earlier by replacement key services. When a locksmith replaces either a broken key or a lost key, they can easily cut a key by hand. However most common locks such as Kwikset or Schlage use key codes which can help determine the kind of key your home uses. This can help make it easier to copy.
Is Replacement of Broken Commercial Keys Possible?
Some will ask if a patented key, such as a work key, where there are limited copies available to employees, can be replaced. Patented keys if broken can be copied as well. However depending on the type of patented key, you may need authorization before you can make a copy. Either the business owner will need to give permission or have the keys copied himself. Certain patented keys do use complex codes that may be difficult to decode. However locks that use a code key come with a code card and that can make it easier to decode the key in order to make a copy.
Locksmith Services in KILLEEN, AUSTIN, SAN ANTONIO, ROUND ROCK, SAN MARCOS, FRISCO, NEW BRAUNFELS & HOUSTON TEXAS
In short, yes most keys, even those that are broken, can be copied or replaced. When your key breaks, contact Texan Lock and Key. We can help copy or replace your broken keys.
