Volkswagen Key Broke Off [Causes & Proven Solutions]
There’s no worse feeling than when you try to start your Volkswagen and realize that your key has broken off in the ignition. Not only is it frustrating, but it can also be a major inconvenience. You may be stranded, unable to get to work or run errands. Or, you may have to pay for a tow truck and a new key.
If you’re one of the many Volkswagen owners who have experienced this problem, you’re not alone. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the steps to troubleshoot a broken Volkswagen key and get your car back up and running.
I’ll also provide tips on how to prevent this problem from happening in the future. So, if you’re ready to learn how to fix a broken Volkswagen key, keep reading!
So, Why Volkswagen Key Broke Off?
Here Are Some Reasons Mentioned Below
Reasons why Volkswagen key broke off
Improper key insertion and removal:
The most common cause of a Volkswagen key breaking off is improper key insertion and removal. When inserting the key, make sure that it is fully inserted into the ignition cylinder. When removing the key, do not pull it straight out, but twist it slightly to the left or right before pulling it out.
Damaged key:
Another common cause of a Volkswagen key breaking off is a damaged key. This can happen if the key is dropped or if it is bent. If the key is damaged, it will not fit properly into the ignition cylinder and may break off when you try to insert or remove it.
Seized ignition cylinder:
A seized ignition cylinder can also cause a Volkswagen key to break off. This can happen if the ignition cylinder is not lubricated properly or if it is damaged. If the ignition cylinder is seized, the key will not be able to turn and may break off when you try to insert or remove it.
Weak key material:
Some Volkswagen keys are made from a weaker material than others. This can make them more susceptible to breaking off, especially if they are dropped or bent. If you have a Volkswagen key that is made from a weak material, you may want to consider replacing it with a key that is made from a stronger material.
How to prevent Volkswagen key from breaking off
To prevent your Volkswagen key from breaking off, you can take the following steps:
Insert and remove the key properly:
Make sure that you are inserting and removing the key properly. When inserting the key, make sure that it is fully inserted into the ignition cylinder. When removing the key, do not pull it straight out, but twist it slightly to the left or right before pulling it out.
Keep the key in good condition:
Do not drop or bend the key. If the key is damaged, it will not fit properly into the ignition cylinder and may break off when you try to insert or remove it.
Lubricate the ignition cylinder regularly:
If the ignition cylinder is not lubricated properly, it can become seized. This can make it difficult to insert and remove the key, and it can also cause the key to break off.
Replace the key with a stronger key:
If you have a Volkswagen key that is made from a weak material, you may want to consider replacing it with a key that is made from a stronger material.
How to Troubleshoot: Volkswagen Key Broke Off
What to Do If Your Volkswagen Key Breaks Off in the Ignition
If your Volkswagen key breaks off in the ignition, don’t panic. You can still get your car started with a few simple steps.
1. Try to remove the broken key with a paperclip:
If the broken key is still in the ignition, you can try to remove it with a paperclip. To do this, bend the paperclip into a U shape and insert it into the ignition. Once the paperclip is in the ignition, use it to carefully pry the broken key out.
2. Use a key extractor tool:
If you can’t remove the broken key with a paperclip, you can try using a key extractor tool. A key extractor tool is a small, specialized tool that is designed to remove broken keys from ignitions. You can purchase a key extractor tool at most auto parts stores.3. Have your key towed to a dealership:
If you’re unable to remove the broken key yourself, you can have your car towed to a dealership. The dealership will be able to remove the broken key and make you a new key.
How to Prevent Your Volkswagen Key from Breaking Off
There are a few things you can do to prevent your Volkswagen key from breaking off.
Don’t drop your key:
The most common cause of a broken key is dropping it. When you drop your key, it can hit the ground with enough force to break it.
Don’t bend your key:
Another common cause of a broken key is bending it. If you bend your key too much, it can break.
Keep your key away from sharp objects:
If you keep your key around sharp objects, it can get damaged. This can lead to the key breaking off.
By following these tips, you can help prevent your Volkswagen key from breaking off.
What to Do If You Lose Your Volkswagen Key
If you lose your Volkswagen key, you’ll need to get a new one. You can get a new key from your local Volkswagen dealer. To get a new key, you’ll need to provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and proof of ownership.
Once you have a new key, you’ll need to have it programmed to your vehicle. Programming a key is a simple process that can be done at your local Volkswagen dealer.
Conclusion
If your Volkswagen key breaks off, don’t panic. You can still get your car started and prevent your key from breaking off again by following the tips in this article.
Also Read: Volkswagen Passat Alarm Keeps Going Off
FAQs: Volkswagen Key Broke Off
What do I do if my Volkswagen key breaks off in the ignition?
Call a locksmith: A locksmith can remove the broken key from the ignition and make you a new key.
Try to remove the broken key yourself: If you have a spare key, you can try to use it to remove the broken key. If you are unable to remove the broken key yourself, you will need to call a locksmith.
How much does it cost to get a new Volkswagen key made?
The cost of a new Volkswagen key varies depending on the model of your car. The average cost is between $100 and $200.
If you have a spare key, you can usually get a new key made for less money.
If you need to have a new key programmed, the cost will be higher.
Can I replace a Volkswagen key myself?
Yes, you can replace a Volkswagen key yourself. However, it is important to make sure that you have the correct key for your car. If you are not sure what key you need, you can contact your local Volkswagen dealer.
Replacing a Volkswagen key is a relatively simple process. However, it is important to follow the instructions carefully. If you are not comfortable doing this yourself, you can take your car to a locksmith or a Volkswagen dealer.
What happens if I lose my Volkswagen key?
If you lose your Volkswagen key, you will need to get a new key made. You can do this by calling a locksmith or a Volkswagen dealer.
If you have a spare key, you can use it to get into your car. However, you will still need to get a new key made so that you can start your car.
If you do not have a spare key, you will need to have your car towed to a locksmith or a Volkswagen dealer.
How can I prevent my Volkswagen key from breaking off?
There are a few things you can do to prevent your Volkswagen key from breaking off:
Don’t drop your key: This is the most common cause of key breakage.
Don’t bend your key: If you bend your key, it can become weakened and more likely to break.
Don’t expose your key to extreme heat or cold: Extreme temperatures can damage the key and make it more likely to break.
Keep your key in a safe place: This will help to prevent it from being lost or damaged.