Car Key Repair Service
Car keys break at the most inconvenient times, regardless of whether you're loading groceries into your trunk or relaxing after an exhausting day. You're often forced to contact roadside assistance or visit the dealership to get an alternative.
It is important to keep in your mind that a locksmith is the best option for fast and inexpensive key replacement. Here are some suggestions to help make the process more smooth:
Assessing the damage
When car keys get damaged, it's important to call a professional away. Depending on the type of key the professionals may be automotive specialists or locksmiths. They could even be dealerships. They should have the appropriate tools and equipment to repair or replace the key without causing damage to your car or causing security issues.
It's important to first assess the issue. This will help the professional choose the best method of fixing the key. For instance, if the key is broken off inside the ignition lock cylinder this could be a serious issue that requires professional attention. Trying to turn the key back and forth can cause further damage, and this is why it's always best to have a professional take care of these issues.
Another issue that is common and requires urgent attention is a damaged key fob. A broken key fob could require a more complex repair, as it may require reprogramming. This is necessary to ensure that the key is programmed for your specific vehicle, and it can only be completed by professionals. This usually involves presenting your identification and the VIN number of the vehicle.
Sometimes there is no visible sign of a broken car key. But the key's metal teeth can become worn out over time, which causes it to not fit correctly in the ignition. This issue could be caused by the chip isn't sending the right code to the immobilizer.
It is essential to check your car keys for signs of wear and tear, such as buttons that are damaged or scratched. This can be prevented by lubricating your keys frequently. It's also important to keep your keys away from magnets and other objects that can interfere with their electronic components. It could be hazardous to expose your key fob to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight.
Finally, dropping your key could cause serious damage. This is especially true when the key falls on a hard surface, such as roads or sidewalks. Do not carry your keys in a key ring with other items. Instead, you should use a strong pouch or a key chain.
Keep Both Pieces
Car keys are brittle electronic components that are susceptible to being damaged by extreme temperatures. You can avoid this from happening by carrying your key around or keeping it in a secure location when not being used. Make sure that your spare key is powered by batteries. Set a reminder on your phone or calendar for every two years to change the batteries.
Although it might be tempting to glue or tape the broken pieces back together, it can cause further damage. If a piece of your key breaks in the ignition, it can be stuck and require more costly and complex repair procedures.
A locksmith can take out a broken key with minimal damage from the lock, and create a brand new key fob should it be needed. A locksmith can program the chip on your replacement key to ensure it is compatible with your car's security features. This will spare you going to the dealership.
If you're in a hurry, it might be easier to purchase keys replacements at the hardware store. However, it's important to remember that keys typically contain transponder chips that require a specific machine to reprogram them. These machines are only available through a dealer, and they can be very expensive.
You may also not be able find keys that match the ignition lock on your vehicle or key fob. This can lead to further problems with your vehicle and it could be very difficult to drive it safely.
You can avoid this by setting a reminder to locksmiths to create an extra key as quickly as possible. They can also create a duplicate for you so that you are prepared in the event of an emergency. You'll save money and stress by doing this. If you're not able to afford the time or cost of having a locksmith come to you to make a 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
Car keys are stuffed with delicate electronics that are at surviving a simpler life. They can still withstand a lot of abuse when it comes to wear and tear. The rubbers that hold the switches in place stretch and become weaker, leaving them vulnerable to being damaged. This is true in particular when the key is knocked or dropped into a hard object. In car keys repair is crucial to get the key replaced as soon as you can.
A key that isn't able to go into the ignition is a typical issue. This is often caused by dirt that builds up on the teeth of the key when they're not kept clean. This can cause the pins to be misaligned over time, making it difficult for them to slide into the ignition. This issue can be prevented by cleaning the keys regularly by using an anti-sanitizer.
Another easy way to speed up the process is to apply lubricant. This is a temporary solution and not a long-term solution. In time, the key may be damaged by the lubricant or by the moisture that it traps inside of it.
If the key is bent or it isn't able to go through the lock Try using a mallet made from rubber to straighten it. This can be accomplished by placing the key on an even surface and then hitting it with a mallet from the top. Be careful not to bend it too far or you could permanently damage it.
You could also use a screwdriver in the event that you have any pieces of plastic that have broken off from the key. It's not an easy procedure, but if willing to risk damaging your key, it might be worth the effort. It's also a good idea to have an extra key cut in case the same thing occurs.
If you're having trouble starting your car and the anti-theft light is on, it's possible that the key was reset. In this case you'll have to visit a dealer or locksmith to get the key encoded. It's expensive, but this is the only method to make your car move again.
How to Get Help from the Locksmith
The most unpleasant of times could be when you misplace your car keys. You could be filling your car at the fuel station with groceries or heading home from a long day at work when you realize that you've left your keys in the car. Locksmith services are readily available and easily, even in an emergency.
A licensed and skilled locksmith can assist you with different problems. They can make new keys or fix the one you have, without causing damage to the security system of your car. They can also replace a lost key or fob in the event of need.
They'll have the tools and techniques needed to open your vehicle without causing damage to it. They'll employ specialized equipment to code the chip in your transponder key so that it is recognized by your vehicle. This will let you leave without being with no way to get home.
If you don't own a transponder key You can attempt to program your key using a car key programming guide. But, this isn't advised due to the significant risk of corrupting the information stored within the module. You might not have the right tools or knowledge regarding the safety features of your car to complete the task correctly.
Another alternative is to visit an auto parts shop that provides key-cutting and programmable keys. This could be a cheaper option based on your location and the car model. It is recommended to verify the credentials of the shop as well as reviews from customers prior to you decide to go.
Your local locksmith may also be able to provide you with a valet-key addition to the traditional key duplicate. They are used by valet attendants to unlock and start your car when it is sitting in a garage. They're not intended to open the trunk or glove box, however they can be used for basic car maintenance tasks like topping off your oil and checking the air pressure of your tires.
It's not something you want to experience, but it can occur at any time. It is best to be prepared by keeping a spare key in a safe place and using an auto locksmith that has a specialization in emergency services and also considering pay-per-mile auto insurance from Metromile. This coverage is affordable and gives drivers the opportunity to save money on monthly fixed costs and per-mile charges.