Car Key Repair Service
Car keys get lost at the most inconvenient times, whether you're putting groceries in your trunk or relaxing after a long day. It's common to have to call roadside help or visit the dealership to get a replacement.
A locksmith is the best choice for a cost-effective and quick replacement key. Here are some tips to make the process easier:
Assessing the damage
If your car keys are damaged, it's important to contact a professional right away. Depending on the key type, these professionals could be locksmiths or automotive specialists. They could even be the dealership. 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 figure out the cause of the issue. This will enable the expert to choose the best way to fix the key. If the key is damaged within the ignition lock, it could be a serious issue that requires attention from a professional. The act of turning the key back and forth can cause more damage, so this is why it's recommended to let a professional take care of these issues.
Another issue that requires urgent attention is a damaged key fob. A damaged key fob will require a more intricate repair, as it might need to be reprogrammed. This step is essential to ensure that the key is programmed to your specific vehicle. It can only be completed by a professional. car key fob repair requires you to show your identification and the VIN number of your vehicle.
Sometimes, there's no visible sign that your car key is broken. The teeth on the metal of the key can wear away over time and cause it to become unfit in the ignition. This problem could also be caused by a chip that's not transmitting the correct code to the immobilizer system.
You should inspect your keys periodically for signs of wear, like scratch marks or buttons that are not in good condition. This can be prevented by regularly lubricating your keys. Keep your keys clear of magnets and other objects that could affect the electronic components. It could be dangerous to expose your key fob to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight.
Then, dropping your keys can cause major damage. This is especially true when it falls on hard surfaces, like roads, sidewalks, or even the pavement. It's best to use a sturdy key chain or pouch, and avoid putting your keys on a key ring that has other items.
Keeping Both Pieces
Car keys have sensitive electronic components that are susceptible to being damaged by extreme temperatures. You can avoid this from happening by carrying your key around or placing it in a safe location when not being used. Make sure that your spare key is powered by an energy source. Set a reminder in your calendar or phone every two years to replace the batteries.
While it is tempting to glue or tape the broken pieces back together, this can cause further damage. If a piece of your key is broken in the ignition, for example it may get stuck in the lock and require a more expensive and complicated repair service.
A locksmith can take the broken key from the lock with a minimum of damage, and even design a brand new car key fob for you, if you require. A locksmith can program the chip on your new key so that it works with your car's security features. This will save you going to the dealership.
If you're in a hurry you may find it better to buy a replacement key at the hardware store. However, it's important to keep in mind that these keys usually contain transponder chips that require a special machine to reprogram them. They are only available at a dealer and are extremely expensive.
It is also possible that you won't be able to find the right key for your car's ignition lock or key fob. This can cause further problems for your vehicle and make it difficult to drive safely.
To avoid this, set a reminder to have a professional locksmith make you a new spare key as soon as possible. They can also make a duplicate for you so that you are prepared in the event of an emergency. This will spare you lots of stress and money in the end. If you don't have the time nor money to hire a locksmith to make you new keys You can lubricate your fob using dry film lubricant.
Avoiding DIY Fixes
Car keys are packed with delicate electronics that are designed for a more relaxed life. They can still withstand a lot of abuse when it comes to wear and tear. The rubbers that secure switches will eventually stretch and weaken, making them susceptible to being damaged. This is especially true in the event that the key is thrown or knocked into a hard object. In these situations, it is important to repair the key as soon as you can.
A key that won't go into the ignition is a typical problem. This is usually due to dirt that accumulates on the key's teeth when they're not cleaned regularly. This can cause the pins to be misaligned over time, which makes it difficult to slide into the ignition. This issue can be avoided by regularly cleaning the key with an anti-sanitizer.
Another easy way to speed up the process is to make use of a lubricant. However, this is only an interim measure, and not a long-term fix. As time passes, the key may be damaged by the lubricant or even by the moisture it holds inside of it.
Try using a mallet made from rubber if the key is bent or it will not go into the lock. You can do this by placing the key flat on a surface and then gently pounding it from the top. It is not recommended to over-stretch it or you could permanently damage it.
You could also use a screwdriver if you have any plastic pieces that are broken 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 is also an excellent idea to have an extra key cut in the event that something like this occurs.
If you're having trouble getting your car to start and the anti-theft light is on, there's a good chance that the key has been reset. If this is the case, you'll require a visit to a locksmith or dealer to get the key encoded. This can be expensive however it is the only way to get your vehicle moving.
How to get help from the Locksmith
The most embarrassing of situations could be when you misplace your car keys. You're laden with groceries at the gas station, or returning home from an exhausting day only to realize that you've forgotten keys in your car. Locksmith services are readily available and easily even in the event of an emergency.
A skilled and licensed locksmith can help you with a range of problems. They can make a new key or repair the one you have, without causing damage to the security system in your car. They can also replace keys or fobs that have been lost when needed.
They'll be equipped with the tools and techniques necessary to unlock your vehicle without damaging it. They'll use specialized equipment to code the chip in the transponder key to ensure that it can be recognized by your vehicle. This allows you to drive away from being stuck.
If you don't own transponder keys, you can try to program your key yourself with the help of a car key programming guide. This is not recommended as there is a possibility of damaging the information stored within the module. In addition, you may not have the right tools or know-how of the security system in your car to carry out the task correctly.
Visit an auto parts shop that provides key-cutting services as well as programmables keys. Based on the location and your car's model, this could be a more cost-effective option. You should always check out the credentials of the shop as well as reviews from customers before you decide to go.
In addition to a conventional key duplicate, your local locksmith may be able to provide you with a valet key. Valet attendants make use of these keys to open and start cars while they are in a parking. They're not intended to open the trunk or glove box, but they are able to be used for routine car maintenance tasks like topping off your oil or checking the air pressure of your tires.
It's not something you want to experience however, it could occur at any time. It's best to be ready by keeping a spare key in a safe location and using an auto locksmith that specializes in emergency service, and considering pay-per-mile car insurance from Metromile. This coverage is affordable and allows drivers to save on their monthly fixed and per-mile costs.