Car Key Repair Service
The most inconvenient moments are when your car keys break, whether you are taking groceries out of the trunk or just relaxing after a long workday. Most of the time, you'll have to call roadside assistance or visit the dealership for replacements.
It is important to keep in mind that a locksmith will be the best option for fast and affordable key replacement. Here are some helpful tips to help you make the process simpler:
Assessing the Damage
It is important to contact a professional as soon as possible if your car key is damaged. Based on the kind of key, these professionals may be locksmiths, automotive specialists or even the dealership itself. They must have the right tools and equipment to repair or replace the key without causing damage to your vehicle or creating a security issue.
It is crucial to first evaluate the issue. This will enable the expert to decide on the best approach to fix the key. If your key is broken inside the ignition lock it can be a serious problem that requires professional attention. It's best to leave this issue to professionals. Try turning your key back and forth could cause more damage.
Another issue that requires urgent attention is a damaged key fob that is damaged. This will require a more complicated repair procedure, since it is likely to require reprogramming. This step is necessary to ensure that the key is specifically programmed for your vehicle. This can only be done by a professional. This typically involves presenting your identification and the VIN number of the vehicle.
Sometimes, there's no visible sign that your car key is damaged. The teeth made of metal on the key can wear out over time, causing it to become unfit in the ignition. This issue can be caused by a chip that's not transmitting the correct code to the immobilizer system.
It is important to regularly check your keys to see if there are signs of wear and tear like buttons that are smashed or damaged. Regularly lubricating your keys can assist in preventing this from occurring. Keep your keys away magnets and other objects that could affect the electronic components. Leaving your key fob in direct sunlight or exposing it to extreme temperatures can also be harmful.
In the end, dropping your key can cause major damage. This is particularly true if the key is struck by a hard surface, such as roads or sidewalks. It is recommended to choose a sturdy key chain or pouch and to avoid carrying your keys on a keyring with other things.
Keep car key repairs can harm electronic components in car keys. This can be avoided by keeping your keys with you at all times, or keeping it in a safe place when not being used. Make sure that your spare key is powered by a battery. Set a reminder on your calendar or phone for every two years to change the batteries.
It may be tempting, however, it can cause further damage to tape or glue damaged pieces together. If a piece of your key fails in the ignition, it may get stuck and require costly and complex repair procedures.
A locksmith can take out damaged keys with minimal damage to the lock and create a brand new key fob if necessary. They can also program the chip into your replacement key to ensure that it works properly with your car's security features, which will save you going to the dealership.
If you're in a rush, it might be more convenient to simply buy keys replacements from an hardware store. It's important to keep in mind that these keys have a transponder chip that requires a special machine to reprogram. These machines can be expensive and are only available through a dealer.
In addition, you may not be able to find a key that matches the fob on your car's key or ignition lock. This could cause further issues with your vehicle, and it could be very difficult to drive it safely.
You can avoid this by putting a reminder in place for locksmiths to create an additional key as quickly as is possible. They can also create duplicate keys for you, so you're ready in the event of an emergency. This will save you lots of stress and money in the end. If you're unable to spend the time or money of having a locksmith come to you to make a new car key, you should consider lubricating your fob with 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 more simple life. They are still able to take a lot of abuse, but they are more prone to wear and tear. The rubbers that hold the switches in place are stretched and weaken, making them vulnerable to being damaged. This is particularly true if the key gets hit or dropped on something hard. In these situations, it's important to have the key replaced as soon as possible.
A key that doesn't fit into the ignition is a typical issue. If the teeth of the key are not cleaned regularly, dirt may build up. This can cause the pins to be misaligned over time, making it more difficult for them to slide into the ignition. The best method to avoid this problem is to clean the key with a sanitizer on a regular basis.
Another option to speed up the process is to use a fluid lubricant. However, this is only an interim measure, and not a long-term solution. As time passes the lubricant could damage the key or even keep moisture within.
Try using a mallet made from rubber to break the key if it is bent or if it will not go into the lock. This can be done by placing the key on an even surface and then pounding it gently from the top. You don't want to bend it too much or you might permanently damage it.
You could also try using a screwdriver to remove any pieces of plastic that have broken off from the key. This is a difficult procedure, but it might be worth the effort if are willing to risk damaging the entire key. It's also an excellent idea to have an extra key cut in the event that something like this occurs.
If you're having difficulty getting your car started and the anti-theft warning light is on, it's possible that the key was reset. If this is the case, you'll have to visit a locksmith or a dealer to get the key coded. It can be costly, but it is the only method to get your car moving.
How to get help from the Locksmith
Car key emergencies can happen at the most difficult times. You're loading up your trunk with groceries at the gas station or returning home after an exhausting day only to discover that you've left your keys in the car. Locksmith services are available quickly and easily even in an emergency.
A locksmith who is licensed and skilled can assist you with many different problems. They can design new keys or fix the one you have, without causing damage to the security system of your car. If required, they will replace a key or fob that's been lost.
They'll be equipped with non-destructive car opening techniques and the necessary tools for your particular vehicle. They'll employ special equipment to encode the chip on your transponder keys so that it is recognized by your vehicle. This will let you leave the vehicle without being in a bind.
You can program your own key if you don't already have an transponder. A car key programming guide can assist you. This is not recommended as there is a chance of damaging the information stored in the module. In addition, you may not have the tools or knowledge of the security system in your car to complete the task properly.
Another alternative is to visit an auto parts store that has key-cutting and programmable keys. Depending on the location and your car model, this can be a better option for you in terms of cost. However, it is important to verify the credentials of the store and customer reviews before you decide to visit the store.
Your locksmith might be able to provide you with a valet key in addition to the standard key duplicate. These are used by valet attendants in order to unlock and start your car while it's sitting in a garage. They're not intended to open the trunk or glove box, however they can be used to perform basic car maintenance tasks such as topping off your oil or checking the air pressure in your tires.
No one ever wants to be left without a vehicle but it's a fact that can happen anytime. It is best to be prepared by keeping a spare key in a secure location or using an auto locksmith that has a specialization in emergency services, and considering pay-per-mile car insurance from Metromile. This coverage is affordable and lets drivers save on their monthly fixed and per-mile expenses.