Car Key Repair Service
Car keys break at the most inconvenient times, whether you're putting groceries in your trunk or just sitting down to relax after an exhausting day. Often, you're forced to contact roadside assistance or go to the dealership to get replacement keys.
Locksmiths are the best choice for a cost-effective and quick replacement of a key. Here are some helpful tips to make the process easier:
Assessing the damage
When car keys get damaged, it's important to get a professional in touch with you right away. Based on the type of key, these professionals could be automotive specialists or locksmiths. They might 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 problems.
It is crucial to evaluate the damage and determine what the problem is. This will help the professional determine the best approach to fixing the key. For instance, if the key is missing from the cylinder for ignition locks, this can be a serious problem and will require expert attention. It's best to leave this issue to professionals. Trying to turn your key back and forth could cause further damage.
Another issue that is common and requires immediate attention is a broken key fob that is damaged. A broken key fob could require a more complicated repair, since it could need to be reprogrammed. This is essential to ensure that your key is specifically programmed for your vehicle. It should only be done by an expert. This typically involves presenting identification and your vehicle's VIN number.
Sometimes there's no obvious sign that your car key is damaged. However, the key's steel teeth may wear out over time, causing 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's important to periodically inspect your car keys for signs of wear and tear such as buttons that are damaged or scratched. Regular lubrication can also aid in preventing this from happening. It is also essential to protect your keys from magnets and other items that could cause interference to their electronic components. It can be hazardous to expose your key fob to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight.
The dropping of your keys can cause serious damage. This is especially true when it strikes hard surfaces like roads, sidewalks, or even the pavement. It is best to choose a sturdy key chain or pouch, and to avoid carrying your keys on a key ring with other things.
Keep Both Pieces
Extreme temperatures can damage electronic components in car keys. You can avoid this from happening by always keeping your keys with you or placing it in a secure location when not in use. You should also make sure that your spare key is powered by a battery in it. To do this, you can set a reminder on your calendar or phone to replace the battery every two years.
While it is tempting to glue or tape the broken pieces back together, it could result in further damage. If a part of your key breaks inside the ignition, for example, it can become lodged in the lock and require a more costly and complex repair.
A locksmith can take the broken key from the lock with little damage, and even design a brand new car key fob for you, if needed. A locksmith can program the chip on your new key to work with the safety features of your vehicle. This will avoid a trip down to the dealership.
If you're in a hurry, it may be more convenient to purchase a new key at a hardware shop. It's crucial to keep in mind that these keys usually contain transponder chips that require a specific machine to reprogram them. These machines are only available at a dealer, and they can be very expensive.
In addition, you might not be able find keys that match the fob on your car's key or ignition lock. This could cause further problems with your vehicle, and it can be difficult to drive it safely.
You can avoid this by putting a reminder in place for locksmiths to make you an extra key as quickly as is possible. They can also make copies for you to ensure that you are prepared in the event of an emergency. This will spare you a lot of stress and cost in the long run. If you're unable to spare the time or expense of having a locksmith visit you to make a new car key, you should consider the possibility of lubricating your fob using dry film lubricant or three-in-one oil to keep it from freezing during cold weather.
Avoiding DIY Fixes
The car keys are filled with electronics that are more suitable for a more simple life. That said, they can still be battered when they experience wear and tear. The rubbers that keep switches in place will eventually shrink and weaken, leaving them vulnerable to being damaged. This is particularly true in the event that the key is thrown or knocked into something hard. In such instances, it is important to fix the key in the shortest time possible.
A key that won't go into the ignition is a frequent issue. This is usually due to dirt that accumulates on the teeth of the key when they're not cleaned regularly. This can cause the pins to misalign over time, making it harder to slide into the ignition. This issue can be prevented by cleaning the key regularly by using an anti-sanitizer.
Another simple solution to make the process easier is to apply fluid lubricant. This is a temporary solution and not a permanent one. In time, the lubricant may damage the key or even trap moisture within.
If the key is bent or it isn't able to go through the lock, try using a mallet made of rubber to straighten it. You can do this by laying the key flat on a piece of paper and gently pounding from the top. Don't bend it too much or you risk permanently damaging it.
You can also use a screwdriver to remove any pieces of plastic that may have been ripped off of the key. It's not an easy procedure, but if you're willing to risk damaging your key, it might be worth the effort. It's also a good idea to have an extra key cut just in case something similar happens.
If you are having trouble getting your car to start, and the anti-theft light is illuminated, there's a good chance that the key has been reset. In this case, you'll need to visit an authorized locksmith or dealer to have the key coded. It can be costly, but it is the only way to get your vehicle moving.
Get assistance from a Locksmith
The most unpleasant of times could be when you've lost your car keys. You may be loading your car at the fuel station with groceries or driving 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 licensed and skilled locksmith can help you with a range of problems. They can create a new key or repair the one you have, without causing damage to the security system in your car. If needed, they can replace a fob or key that has been lost.
They'll come equipped with non-destructive techniques for opening cars and the necessary tools for your particular vehicle. If you've got transponder keys, they'll use the specialized equipment needed to code the chip in the key so that the vehicle can recognize it. key car repair allows you to leave the vehicle without being with no way to get home.
You can program your own key if you don't already have an transponder. A car key programming guide can help you. This is not recommended as there is a chance of damaging the data in the module. You may not have the right tools or knowledge about the safety system in your car to make the right decision.
Another option is to go to an auto parts shop that provides key-cutting and programmable keys. This is a less expensive option based on your location and vehicle model. It is recommended to verify the store's credentials as well as customer reviews before you go.
In addition to a standard key duplicate, your local locksmith may be able to provide you with keys for valet. Valet attendants make use of these keys to open and start cars while they are stationary. They're not intended to open the trunk or glove box, but they can be used for basic car maintenance tasks like topping off your oil or checking the pressure of your tires.
No one ever wants to be left without a vehicle however, it's a possibility that can happen at any moment. It's best to be ready by keeping a spare key in a secure location, employing an auto locksmith who is specialized in emergency services, and considering pay-per-mile car insurance from Metromile. This coverage is affordable and gives motorists to save money on fixed monthly costs and per-mile charges.