Car Key Repair Service
Car keys can break at the most inconvenient times, whether you're loading groceries into your trunk or sitting down to relax after an exhausting day. It's common to have to contact roadside assistance or visit the dealership for a replacement.
Locksmiths are the best option for a cost-effective and quick replacement key. Here are some helpful tips to help you make the process simpler:
Assessing the damage
It is important to contact a professional as quickly as you can if your car key is damaged. Depending on the kind of key, these professionals may be locksmiths, automotive specialists or even the dealership itself. They should be equipped with the right tools and equipment to replace or repair the key without damaging your vehicle or creating security issues.
It is crucial to evaluate the damage and figure out the cause of the issue. This will allow the professional to determine the best method to fix the key. For instance, if your key is broken off inside the cylinder for ignition locks, this can be a serious issue that requires professional attention. It is best to leave this issue to professionals. If you try to turn your key back and forth can cause more damage.
A broken key fob is another common issue that requires immediate attention. This requires a more involved repair procedure, since it will likely need to be reprogrammed. This is necessary to ensure that the key is programmed for your specific vehicle. It must be done by professionals. This typically involves presenting your identity and the VIN number of your car.
Sometimes there's no visible indication that your car key is broken. The metal teeth of the key can wear out over time and cause it to become unfit in the ignition. This issue can be caused by the chip isn't sending the right code to the immobilizer.
It is important to check your keys on a regular basis for signs of wear, such as scratches or loose buttons. This can be avoided by lubricating your keys frequently. It's also important to keep your keys away from magnetic objects and other objects that can interfere with their electronic components. If you leave your key fob in direct sunlight or exposing it to extreme temperatures could also cause harm.
The dropping of your keys can cause serious damage. This is especially true when it hits hard surfaces, such as sidewalks or roads. Do not carry your keys in the key ring along with other items. Instead, you should use a strong pouch or a key chain.
Then, keep both pieces
Extreme temperatures can cause damage to electronic components of car keys. This is prevented by keeping your key on you at all times or storing it in a secure location when not in use. Make sure that the spare key is powered by a battery. Set a reminder on your calendar or phone for every two years to change the batteries.
While it may be tempting to glue or tape the broken pieces back together, it could result in further damage. If you can try this out of your key breaks in the ignition, it can become lodged and require more expensive and complicated repair services.
A locksmith can extract the broken key from the lock with little damage, and they can even design a brand new car key fob for you if required. A locksmith can program the chip on your new key to work with the safety features of your vehicle. This will avoid going to the dealership.
If you're in a hurry it may be more convenient to simply buy a replacement key at the 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. These machines can be expensive and are only available through a dealership.
It is also possible that you won't be able to find keys that match the ignition lock on your vehicle or key fob. This could cause additional problems for your vehicle and make it difficult to drive safely.
To avoid this, you should set a reminder to call a professional locksmith to create you a spare key as soon as possible. They can also create a duplicate so 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 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 appropriate for a simple lifestyle. That said, they can still be battered when they are subject to wear and tear. The rubbers that keep switches in place will eventually stretch and weaken, leaving them vulnerable to being damaged. This is especially true in the event that the key is knocked or dropped into something hard. In these cases, it's important to have the key repaired as quickly as you can.
A common issue is a key that doesn't fit into the ignition. This is usually due to dirt that collects on the teeth of the key if they aren't cleaned regularly. Over time, this can cause the pins of the key to shift. This makes it difficult for them to slide into the ignition. This issue can be prevented by cleaning the key regularly using the use of a sanitiser.
Another simple solution to make the process easier is to make use of a lubricant. This is a temporary solution and not a permanent solution. As time passes the lubricant could cause damage to the key or hold moisture within.
If the key is bent or it doesn't fit completely into the lock, try using a mallet made from rubber to straighten it. You can do this by laying the key flat on a surface and then gently pounding it from the top. It is not recommended to over-stretch it or you risk permanently damaging it.
You can also try using a screwdriver to remove any pieces of plastic that may have broken off from the key. It's a challenging procedure, but if willing to risk damaging your key, it could be worth the effort. It's also a good idea to have a spare key made in case of need.
If you're having difficulty getting your car started and the anti-theft light is on, it's possible that the key was reset. In this case you'll have to visit an authorized locksmith or dealer to get the key encoded. It's expensive however it is the only way to make your vehicle move again.
Get Assistance from a Locksmith
The most unpleasant of times could be when you've lost your car keys. You're filling your trunk with groceries at the gas station or returning home from a long day when you realize you left keys in your car. The good news is that locksmith services are available quickly and efficiently, even when you're in the middle of an emergency.
A licensed and skilled locksmith can assist you with a variety of problems. They can repair or design a new car key without causing damage to your vehicle's security system. They can also replace the lost key or fob in the event of need.
They'll be equipped with the tools and techniques necessary to open your car without damaging it. They'll make use of specially designed equipment to code the chip on your transponder keys so that it can be recognized by your vehicle. This allows you to leave the vehicle without being stranded.
If you don't own transponder keys You can attempt to program your own key using an auto key programming guide. This is not recommended as there is a chance of damaging the data stored within the module. In addition, you may not have the appropriate tools or know-how of your car's security system to complete the task properly.
Another alternative is to visit an auto parts store that offers keys that can be cut and programmable. Based on the location and your vehicle's model, this may be a more cost-effective option. However, it is important to look up the store's credentials and customer reviews before deciding to go there.
Your locksmith might be able to provide you with a valet-key addition to the standard key duplicate. These are used by valet attendants to unlock and start your car when it's sitting in a garage. These are not designed to open your trunk or glovebox however, they can be used to carry out basic car maintenance tasks like topping off oil and assessing tire pressure.
Nobody wants to be left without a car, but it's a reality that could occur at any time. Metromile offers insurance with pay-per-mile for drivers. This insurance is affordable and allows drivers to save on their fixed monthly and per-mile charges.