How to Fix Broken Sunglasses Hinge {Plastic and Metal} [Causes, Tips 2023]

Sunglasses are an essential accessory that protect our eyes from harmful UV rays. However, it can be frustrating when the hinge on your favorite pair of shades gets loose or breaks. The good news is that a broken sunglasses hinge can often be repaired at home with a few simple tools and supplies.

What Causes Sunglasses Hinges to Break?

There are a few common reasons why the hinges on sunglasses may get damaged or stop working properly:

1.      Normal wear and tear:

Opening and closing the arms on sunglasses over time can cause stress on the hinges leading to cracking or breaking. This is especially true for inexpensive sunglasses made with plastic parts.

2.      Dropping:

Dropping your sunglasses on a hard surface can easily cause the hinges to bend, warp or snap off.

3.      Forced opening/closing:

Trying to force the arms open wider than they are designed for or snapping them shut too aggressively can damage the hinges.

4.      Sun exposure:

Prolonged sun exposure can dry out and make plastic parts brittle causing them to crack or break more readily.

5.      Cheap materials:

Low-quality plastics and metals used on very inexpensive sunglasses may not stand up well to regular use.

Now Here is guide on How to Fix Broken Sunglasses Hinge whether it is plastic or metal sunglasses

How to Fix Broken Sunglasses Hinge {Plastic and Metal} 

How to Fix Broken Plastic sunglasses Hinges

If your sunglasses have plastic hinges that have cracked or broken, they can often be fixed using strong adhesives or plastic welding:

Step 1: Remove any broken pieces

Carefully remove any small broken plastic pieces from the hinge parts using tweezers. Make sure no debris is left in the hinge itself.

Step 2: Align and close hinge

Set the arm of the sunglasses in the proper closed position against the frame and carefully align the broken edges of the hinge.

Step 3: Apply plastic adhesive  

Use a small amount of plastic model cement, epoxy or clear super glue to bond the broken edges back together. Ensure edges are properly aligned before adhesive sets.

Step 4: Add support (optional)  

For extra support, add a thin strip of strong plastic or metal across both sides of the hinge and glue in place. This helps reinforce the repair.

Step 5: Allow adhesive to fully cure

Let repair sit for at least 24 hours allowing adhesive to fully harden before attempting to open/close arms.

Step 6: Test repair

Once adhesive has cured, gently open and close arms to test if hinge functions properly again. Reapply adhesive if needed.

How to Fix Broken Metal Sunglasses Hinges

Sunglasses with metal hinges have a pin that connects the arm to the frame. If this becomes loose or detached the hinge will break. Here’s how to fix it:

Step 1: Remove loose pin

If the pin is still attached on one side, push it out fully to remove it completely from the hinge.

Step 2: Clean hinge parts  

Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to thoroughly clean inside the hinge and pin holes.

Step 3: Replace pin

Insert a replacement pin into the holes. It should fit snugly but still be able to pivot smoothly.

Step 4: Cut pin

Use wire cutters to trim the pin so it doesn’t stick out on either side of the hinge. File any rough edges.

Step 5: Verify repair

Check that the arm can pivot smoothly but that there is no wobble or looseness. Bend the arm gently to ensure the pin stays put.

Step 6: Add glue (optional)

For extra security, apply a small drop of clear-drying glue or LocTite at the ends of the pin. Avoid getting glue into the pivot.

Helpful Tips for Sunglasses Hinge Repair

• When removing broken pieces, use a magnifying glass to inspect the hinge and ensure no fragments are left inside.
• Q-tips can help reach into small hinge parts to clean thoroughly before repairing.
• Pliers can help grip and maneuver small hinge pins into place during metal hinge repairs.
• Rubbing alcohol helps prep the hinge and removes oils for the strongest adhesion when gluing.
• Let glued repairs cure for at least 24 hours before using to ensure maximum bond strength.
• Start by applying very small amounts of glue; too much can make the hinge stick and not pivot smoothly.
• Extra glue squeezing out indicates too much is being used. Wipe away excess before it dries.
• After a repair, open and close the arms slowly and gently to avoid re-breaking the fragile bond.
• Use eyeglass repair kits from a drugstore or optician to find small replacement screws, pins and parts.

What to Do If You Can’t Repair the Hinge

If your sunglasses hinge is damaged beyond repair or you’re unable to fix it properly yourself, don’t throw the sunglasses away! Here are some options:

1.      Visit an optician

Most eyeglass and sunglass shops have technicians experienced in hinge repairs. Let them handle tricky metal pins and alignments.

2.      Check if still under warranty

Sunglasses may have a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty covering defects. Hinge damage may qualify for free repair.

3.      Replace the arms

Detachable sunglasses arms can often be replaced separately from the frames and lenses. Order just the new arms.

4.      Buy new hinges

Basic replacement hinge kits can be purchased online and swapped onto the existing frames. Watch tutorials for guidance.

5.      Replace the frames

If the frames are damaged beyond salvaging, consider just replacing the front frames and transferring the lenses over to new frames.

Preventing Future Hinge Damage

Here are some tips to keep your sunglasses hinges working smoothly for longer:

• Handle sunglasses gently when putting them on and taking them off. Avoid snapping or bending the arms.
• Store sunglasses in a protective hard case when not in use. Don’t toss them loosely into a bag.
• Tighten loose hinge screws periodically using a micro screwdriver.
• Clean hinges occasionally with rubbing alcohol to remove dirt and oils.
• Consider using a glasses strap or lanyard when active to prevent drops.
• Remove sunglasses before physical activities where they could fly off and get damaged.
• Inspect hinges to look for early signs of cracking or loosening before it worsens.
• Invest in quality sunglasses with sturdy metal alloy hinges if you’ll use them heavily.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fixing Sunglasses Hinges

Can I glue plastic sunglasses hinges at home?

Yes, small plastic hinges can often be glued at home using plastic model cement, epoxy or super glue. Ensure the edges align perfectly before the adhesive dries.

What kind of glue works best on sunglasses?  

For metal parts, epoxy or LocTite work well. For plastics, plastic cement, super glue or clear epoxy are good options. Apply only a small amount and let dry fully.

How do I replace a sunglasses hinge pin?

Use pliers to remove any remnants of the old pin. Clean the hinge holes then press in a new pin so it’s snug but can still pivot smoothly. Trim excess length and file any rough edges.

What if my sunglasses hinge is missing a screw?

You’ll need a micro-screwdriver and replacement micro-screws. Try to match new screw size to old one. Apply a drop of glue or LocTite when re-inserting to keep tight.

Can I just glue broken sunglasses arms back on?

Yes, you can attempt to glue a detached arm back onto the frame. Use epoxy for plastic frames or LocTite for metal. Clamp tightly until bonded. The repair may not hold with heavy use.

Are all sunglasses hinges interchangeable?

No, hinge types and sizes can vary. But basic replacement kits with common plastic or metal hinge components can sometimes be swapped onto existing frames.

Should I repair or replace damaged sunglasses?

Try repairing first if damage is minimal. But if frames are cracked or bent beyond repair, replacement may be better. Transferring old lenses to new frames is one option.

Can I prevent my sunglasses hinges from breaking?

Handle gently, store in a hard case, tighten screws periodically, avoid overextending arms, and keep hinges clean. Quality alloy hinges also withstand more wear and tear.

Conclusion: How to Fix Broken Sunglasses Hinges

Broken sunglasses hinges can often be fixed at home with basic tools and adhesives if the damage isn’t too severe. For loose pins, missing screws or cracked plastic, a few simple repairs may get your shades working good as new again. But if the frame and hinges are beyond salvaging don’t throw them out replacement arms, hinges or frames can give them new life. With proper care and handling, you can add years of use to your favorite pair of sunglasses.

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