Car Key Repair Service
The most inconvenient moments are when keys to your car break, whether you are taking groceries out of the trunk or simply enjoying a relaxing evening after a long working day. You're usually forced to call roadside help or go to the dealership to obtain a replacement.
It is important to keep in your mind that a locksmith is the best option for fast and inexpensive key replacement. Here are some tips to make the process more efficient:
Assessing the extent of damage
It is essential to contact an expert as soon as possible if your car key is damaged. Based on the kind of key, these experts could be automotive specialists, locksmiths, or even the dealership itself. They must have the proper tools and equipment to replace or repair the key without causing damage to your vehicle or causing security problems.
First, it's important to assess the damage and determine the cause of the issue. This will help the professional determine the best approach to fixing the key. If your key is damaged inside the ignition lock, it could be a serious problem that requires attention from a professional. Turning the key back and forth can cause further damage, and this is why it's recommended to let a professional take care of these problems.
Another common issue that needs immediate attention is a broken key fob. This will require a more complicated repair procedure, as it is likely to require reprogramming. This step is crucial to ensure that your key is specifically programmed for your vehicle. It should only be completed by an expert. This usually involves presenting your identity and the VIN number of the vehicle.
Sometimes, there is no visible evidence of a damaged car key. However, the key's teeth can wear out over time, which causes it to not fit correctly in the ignition. This issue could also be caused by a chip that's not sending the correct code to the immobilizer system.
It is important to regularly check your keys to check for signs of wear and tear like scratches or loose buttons. Regularly lubricating your keys can help prevent this from happening. Keep your keys away magnets and other objects that could affect the electronic components. It could be hazardous to expose your key fob to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight.
In the end, dropping your key can cause major damage. This is especially true if it falls on hard surfaces, such as sidewalks or roads. It is best to use a strong key chain or pouch and to avoid putting your keys on a keyring that contains other items.
Keep both pieces
Extreme temperatures can damage electronic components of car keys. This can be avoided by keeping your key with you at all times or keeping it in a safe place when it is not in use. Make sure your spare key is powered by batteries. To do this, set a reminder on your phone or calendar to change the battery each two years.
It may be tempting, but it could cause more damage to tape or glue damaged pieces together. If a piece of your key gets damaged inside the ignition, for instance it may get stuck in the lock and require more expensive and complex repair service.
A locksmith can reseal damaged keys with minimal damage to the lock and also create a new key fob in the event of need. A locksmith can program the chip on your replacement key so that it works with the safety features of your vehicle. This will avoid going to the dealership.
If you're on the run, it might be easier to purchase an additional key from the hardware store. It is important to keep it in mind that these keys contain transponder chips that require a specific machine to reprogram. They are only available at a dealer and can be extremely expensive.
In addition, you may not be able to find the right key for your car's key fob or ignition lock. This could cause further problems with your vehicle and it could make it difficult to drive it safely.
To prevent this from happening, make a note to have a professional locksmith make you a spare key right away. They can also create a duplicate so you are ready in the event of an emergency. You'll save money and stress by doing this. If you don't have the time or money to hire an expert locksmith to make new keys, you can lubricate your fob using dry film lubricant.
Avoiding DIY Fixes
The keys to your car are loaded with electronics that are more suitable for a simpler life. They can still take plenty of abuse, but they are more prone to wear and tear. The rubbers that hold the switches in place are stretched and become weaker, leaving them susceptible to being damaged. This is true in particular when the key is thrown or knocked into something hard. In these cases, it's important to have the key repaired as quickly as you can.
The most frequent issue is a key that won't fit into the ignition. If the teeth of the key aren't cleaned regularly, dirt can build up. As time passes, this can cause the pins of the key to misalign. This makes it difficult for them to slide into the ignition. The best way to avoid this issue is to wash the key using a sanitiser on regular basis.
Applying a lubricant to help the key fit into ignition is another easy solution that can make the process smoother. But, this is just a stopgap measure and not a long-term solution. As time passes, the key may be damaged by the lubricant, or by the moisture that it traps within it.
If the key is bent or it doesn't fit all the way into the lock, try using a rubber mallet to straighten it. You can do this by placing the key flat on a piece of paper and gently pounding from the top. Be careful not to bend it too far or you could end up damaging it.
You can also try using a screwdriver to remove any pieces of plastic that have broken off the key. It can be a difficult procedure, but if you're willing to risk damaging your key, it could be worth the effort. It's a good idea to make a backup key to be prepared in the event of a need.
If you're having difficulty getting your car to start and the anti-theft light is on it's likely that the key has been reset. In this instance you'll need to go to an auto locksmith or dealer to have the key identified. It can be costly, but it is the only method to get your car moving again.
How to Contact a Locksmith
The most inconvenient of times could be when you've lost your car keys. key fob repair loading up your trunk with groceries at the station or returning home from an exhausting day only to realize you left your keys in the car. Locksmith services are readily available and easily even in the event of an emergency.
A professional and licensed locksmith can assist you with a range of issues. They can repair or create a new car key without causing damage to the security system of your vehicle. If necessary, they can replace a fob or key that's been lost.
They'll come equipped with non-destructive techniques for opening cars and the necessary tools to work on your specific vehicle. If you've got transponder keys they'll make use of the specific equipment required to code the chip in the key so that the vehicle will recognize it. This will enable you to drive away without being stuck.
If you don't own a transponder key, you can try to program your key with the help of an instruction manual for programming car keys. This isn't recommended as there is a risk of damaging the data stored within the module. In addition, you may not have the appropriate tools or know-how of the security system on your car to carry out the task correctly.
Another option is to go to an auto parts store that has keys that can be cut and programmable. This could be a cheaper alternative based on the location and the car model. It is recommended to verify the store's credentials as well as customer reviews before you decide to go.
Your locksmith might be able provide you with a valet-key addition to the standard key duplicate. They are utilized by valet attendants to unlock and start your car while it's in a parking spot. They're not designed to open your trunk or glove box, but they are able to be used for routine car maintenance tasks such as topping off your oil and checking the air pressure of your tires.
It's not something you want to experience however, it could happen at any time. It's best to be ready by keeping an extra key in a secure location or using an auto locksmith that specializes in emergency service, and considering pay-per-mile car insurance from Metromile. This affordable coverage allows drivers the opportunity to save money on monthly fixed cost and per-mile costs.