Car Key Repair Service
Car keys can break at the most inconvenient moments, whether you're putting groceries in your trunk or just relaxing after an exhausting day. It's common to have to contact roadside assistance or visit the dealership for a replacement.
It's important to keep it in mind that a locksmith will be the best option for fast and cost-effective key replacement. Here are some helpful tips to make the process more efficient:
Assessing Damage
It is essential to contact a professional as quickly as possible if your car key is damaged. Based on the type of key, these experts could be automotive specialists, locksmiths or even the dealership itself. They should be equipped with the appropriate tools and equipment to repair or replace the key without damaging your vehicle or creating security issues.
It is crucial to determine the extent of the damage and determine the cause of the issue. This will enable the expert to determine the best method to fix the key. If your key is broken inside the ignition lock it can be a serious problem that requires attention from a professional. It is recommended to leave these problems to experts. Trying to turn your key back and forward could cause more damage.
A damaged key fob is another common issue that requires immediate attention. This requires a more involved repair procedure, since it is likely to require reprogramming. This is essential to ensure that the key is programmed specifically for your vehicle. It should only be completed by a professional. This usually involves presenting the identification of your vehicle and its VIN number.
Sometimes there's no obvious sign that your car key is damaged. However, the key's teeth can become worn out over time, which causes it to not fit properly in the ignition. This problem could also be caused by a chip not sending the correct code to the immobilizer system.
It is important to check your keys regularly for signs of wear, like scratch marks or buttons that are not in good condition. This can be avoided by lubricating your keys frequently. Keep your keys away magnets and other objects that could affect the electronic components. It can be dangerous to expose your key fob to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight.
In the end, dropping your key could cause serious damage. This is particularly true if it strikes hard surfaces like roads, sidewalks, or even the pavement. Do not carry your keys in the same key ring as other items. Instead, opt for a sturdy pouch or key chain.
Keep Both Pieces
Extreme temperatures can harm electronic components in car keys. You can prevent this from happening by always carrying your key around or keeping it in a safe place when not in use. Make sure that the spare key is powered by a battery. To do this, you can set an alarm on your calendar or phone to change the battery every two years.
Although it might be tempting to glue or tape the broken pieces back together, it could result in further damage. If a piece of your key is damaged in the ignition, it could be stuck and require more costly and complex repair procedures.
A locksmith can extract the damaged key from the lock with minimal damage, and they can even create a new car key fob for you if you require. They can also program the chip into the replacement key to ensure it is working properly with your car's security features, avoiding having to visit the dealer.
If you are in need of speed, it could be simpler to purchase an additional key from the hardware store. It's crucial to remember that these keys usually contain transponder chips that require a special machine to reprogram them. These machines are available only at a dealership, and they can be extremely expensive.
In addition, you may not be able to find keys that match the key fob of your car or ignition lock. This could create additional issues for your vehicle and make it difficult to drive safely.
You can avoid this by setting a reminder for locksmiths to create an extra key as quickly as they can. They can also make duplicate keys so that you are ready in the event of an emergency. This will spare you a lot of stress and money in the long run. If you're not able to afford the time or money of having a locksmith visit you to create a new car key, consider lubricating your fob with dry film lubricant, or three-in-one oil to prevent it from freezing in cold weather.
Avoiding DIY Fixes
The keys to your car are loaded with electronic gadgets that are suitable for a more simple life. They are still able to take a lot of abuse when it comes to wear and tear. The rubbers that keep switches in place will eventually stretch and become weaker, making them more susceptible to being damaged. This is particularly true in the event that the key is dropped or knocked into a hard object. In these situations it's crucial to get the key repaired as quickly as possible.
A common problem is a key that doesn't fit into the ignition. If the teeth of the key aren't cleaned regularly, dirt may build up. This can cause the pins to become misaligned over time, making it harder to slide into the ignition. This issue can be prevented by cleaning the key regularly by using a sanitiser.
car key and repair to speed up the process is to apply lubricant. This is a temporary fix and not a permanent solution. Over time the key could be damaged by the lubricant or even by the moisture it holds inside of it.
If the key is bent, or if it won't go all the way into the lock, try using a rubber mallet to straighten it. You can do this by laying the key flat on the surface and gently pounding it from the top. You don't want to make it too slack or you risk permanently damaging it.
You can also use a screwdriver if you have any plastic pieces that have broken off from the key. This can be a tricky process, but it may be worth the effort if you are willing to risk damaging the entire key. It's a good idea to keep a spare key in place to be prepared in the event of a need.
If you're having trouble getting your car started and the anti-theft warning light is on, it's likely that the key was reset. In this situation, you'll need to visit an authorized locksmith or dealer to get the key coded. It can be costly, but this is the only method to make your car move again.
Need Help from a Locksmith
Car key emergencies happen at the most awkward times. You might be filling your trunk at the gas station with groceries or heading home after a long workday when you realize that you have left your keys in the car. Locksmith services are readily available and easily even in an emergency.
A professional and licensed locksmith can help you with a variety of issues. They can repair or make a new car key without causing damage to the security system of your vehicle. If necessary, they can replace a fob or key that was lost.
They'll be equipped with non-destructive methods for opening your car and the tools required for your specific vehicle. They'll use specialized equipment to code the chip in the transponder key to ensure that it is recognized by your vehicle. This will allow you to drive away from being stuck.
If you don't own transponder keys you can program your key with the help of an auto key programming guide. This is not recommended as there is a risk of damaging the data stored in the module. Besides, you might not have the tools or knowledge of your car's security system to complete the task properly.
Another alternative is to visit an auto parts shop that provides keys that can be cut and programmable. This could be a cheaper option depending on your location and vehicle model. You should always check out the store's credentials as much as customer reviews before you go.
Your local locksmith may also be able to provide you with a valet key in addition to the standard key duplicate. Valet attendants utilize these keys to unlock and start vehicles while they are in a parking. They are not intended to open your trunk or glovebox however, they can be used to perform basic car maintenance tasks like topping off oil and checking the tire's pressure.
It's not something anyone wants to go through but it can happen at any time. It is best to be prepared by keeping an extra key in a safe location or employing an auto locksmith who is specialized in emergency services and also consider pay-per mile car insurance from Metromile. This insurance is affordable and lets drivers save money on their monthly fixed and per-mile expenses.