Car Key Repair Service
Car keys break at the most inconvenient times, whether you're putting groceries in your trunk or simply sitting down to relax after a long day. It's common to have to call roadside assistance or go to the dealership to obtain a replacement.
It's important to keep in mind that a locksmith is the best choice for fast and inexpensive key replacement. Here are some tips to make the process easier:
Assessing the extent of damage
It is important to contact a professional as quickly as you can if your car key is damaged. Depending on the type of key, these professionals could be automotive specialists or locksmiths. They may even be the dealership. They should have the proper tools and equipment to repair or replace the key without causing damage to your car or causing security issues.
It is crucial to assess the damage and determine what's wrong. This will allow the professional to determine the best method to fix the key. For instance, if the key is damaged inside the cylinder of the ignition lock, this can be a serious issue that will require expert attention. homesite of turning the key in a circular motion could cause further damage, and this is why it's always best to have a professional deal with these issues.
A broken key fob is a common issue that requires immediate attention. This requires a more involved repair process, as it is likely to need to be reprogrammed. This step is crucial to ensure that your key is specifically programmed for your vehicle. This can only be accomplished by an expert. This usually involves presenting your identification and the VIN number of your vehicle.
Sometimes, there is no visible sign of a damaged car key. The metal teeth of the key can wear away over time and cause it to not fit in the ignition. This issue could also be caused by a chip not sending the correct code to the immobilizer system.
It's important to periodically inspect your keys to check for signs of wear and tear such as scratches or loose buttons. Regular lubrication can assist in preventing this from happening. Keep your keys away magnets and other objects that could interfere with the electronic components. It could be dangerous to expose your key fob to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight.
Then, dropping your keys can cause major damage. This is especially true if it strikes hard surfaces such as sidewalks or roads. Avoid carrying your keys in the same key ring as other things. Instead, use an appropriate pouch or key chain.
Keep Both Pieces
Car keys are brittle electronic components that are susceptible to being damaged by extreme temperatures. You can stop this from happening by carrying your key with you or placing it in a secure location when not being used. Make sure that your spare key is powered by an energy source. To do this, you can set an alarm on your phone or calendar to change the battery every two years.
While it is tempting to tape or glue the broken pieces back together, this can cause further damage. If a part of your key gets damaged inside the ignition, for instance it could get stuck in the lock, requiring a more expensive and complex repair.
A locksmith can remove the broken key from the lock with little damage, and they can even design a brand new car key fob for you, if you require. They can also program the chip in your replacement key to ensure that it works properly with your car's security features, avoiding a trip to the dealership.
If you're in need of speed, it could be easier to buy a new key at an hardware store. But, it's important to keep in mind that these keys usually contain transponder chips that require a special machine to reprogram them. They are only available at a dealer, and they can be very expensive.
Additionally, you might not be able to find the right key for the fob on your car's key or ignition lock. This can cause further problems for your vehicle and make it difficult to drive safely.
To avoid this, you should set a reminder to have a professional locksmith make you a new spare key as soon as possible. They can also make an additional key so that you are ready in the event of an emergency. You'll save money and stress by doing this. If you're unable to spare the time or cost of having a locksmith come to you to make a brand new car key, you should consider applying lubricant to your fob using dry film lubricant, or three-in-one oil to keep it from freezing during cold weather.
Avoiding DIY Fixes
The keys to your car are loaded with electronics that are more suitable for a simpler life. However, they can be a bit rough when they are subject to wear and tear. Eventually, the rubbers that hold the switches in place stretch and become weaker, leaving them susceptible to damage. This is particularly true in the event that the key is thrown or knocked into a hard object. In such cases, it is important to get the key repaired as soon as you can.
A key that isn't able to go into the ignition is a typical issue. If the teeth of the key are not cleaned regularly, dirt can build up. Over time, this can cause the pins of the key to shift. This makes it difficult for them to slide into the ignition. The best way to avoid this issue is to wash the key with a sanitizer on a regular basis.
Using a lubricant to help the key fit into ignition is another simple solution that will make the process easier. But, this is just an interim measure, and is not a long-term solution. As time passes the lubricant can cause damage to the key or trap moisture inside.
If the key is bent or it won't go completely into the lock, try using a mallet made from rubber to straighten it. This can be accomplished by placing the key on a flat surface and pressing it lightly from the top. It is not recommended to over-stretch it or you risk permanently damaging it.
You can also use a screwdriver in the event that you have any plastic pieces that have broken from the key. This is a difficult procedure, but it could be worth the effort if are willing to risk damaging the entire key. It's also a good idea to have a spare key cut just in case something like this happens.
If you're experiencing difficulty starting your car and the anti-theft light is on, it's possible that the key was reset. In this instance, you'll need to visit a dealer or locksmith to get the key identified. This can be expensive, but it is the only way to get your vehicle moving again.
How to Contact a Locksmith
Car key emergencies occur at the most inconvenient times. You're laden with groceries at the gas station, or returning home from a long day when you realize that you've forgotten keys in your car. Locksmith services are available quickly and easily even in the event of an emergency.
A certified and experienced locksmith can assist you with many various issues. They can repair or design a new car key without causing damage to the security system of your vehicle. If needed, they can replace a fob or a key that was lost.
They'll have non-destructive car opening techniques and the tools needed for your specific vehicle. If you have a transponder key they'll make use of the specific equipment to encode the chip in the key so that your vehicle will recognize it. This allows you to leave the vehicle without being in a bind.
If you don't own a transponder key, you can try to program your key yourself using an instruction manual for programming car keys. This isn't recommended as there is a risk of damaging the data in the module. It is possible that you don't have all the tools or knowledge regarding the safety features of your car to complete the task correctly.
Another option is to go to an auto parts store that has key-cutting and programmable keys. Based on the location and your car's model, this could be a better option for you in terms of cost. Always verify the credentials of the shop as well as reviews from customers before you make your purchase.
In addition to a conventional key duplicate, your local locksmith may also provide you with keys for valet. These are utilized by valet attendants to open and start your vehicle while it is sitting in a garage. They're not designed to open the trunk or glove box, but they can be used to perform basic car maintenance tasks such as topping up your oil and checking the pressure of your tires.
It's not something anyone wants to experience however, it could happen at any moment. It is best to be prepared by keeping keys in a safe place, employing an auto locksmith who specializes in emergency service and also consider pay-per mile car insurance from Metromile. This coverage is affordable and gives motorists to save on monthly fixed costs and per mile charges.