Car Key Repair Service
The most unpleasant moments occur when your car keys break when you're loading groceries into the trunk or just enjoying a relaxing evening after a long working day. It's common to have to call roadside assistance or visit the dealership to get a replacement.
A locksmith is the best choice for a fast and affordable replacement keys. Here are some helpful tips to help you make the process simpler:
Assessing the extent of damage
It's important to call an expert as soon as you can if your car key is damaged. Based on the type of key, these professionals could be automotive specialists or locksmiths. They might even be dealerships. They should have the proper tools and equipment to repair or replace the key without damaging your vehicle or creating a security issue.
It is crucial to first evaluate the damage. This will help the professional decide on the best method for fixing the key. For instance, if the key is damaged inside the cylinder for ignition locks it could be a serious problem and requires professional attention. It is best to leave this issue to experts. Trying to turn your key back and forth could cause more damage.
Another issue that is common and requires immediate attention is a broken key fob. A broken key fob will require a more intricate repair, since it could 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 an expert. This usually involves presenting your identification and the VIN number of your vehicle.
Sometimes, there is no visible evidence of a damaged car key. However, the key's teeth may wear out over time, which causes it to be unable to fit in the ignition. This problem could be caused by a chip not sending the correct code to the immobilizer system.
It's important to periodically inspect your car keys for signs of wear and tear, like scratches or loose buttons. Regularly lubricating your keys can assist in preventing this from happening. It is also essential to protect your keys from magnets and other items that can interfere with their electronic components. It can be dangerous to expose your key fob to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight.
The dropping of your keys can cause serious damage. This is particularly true if the key is struck by the hard surface, such as roads or sidewalks. Do not carry your keys in the same key ring as other items. Instead, use a sturdy pouch or key chain.
Keep Both Pieces
Extreme temperatures can damage electronic components of car keys. You can stop this from happening by always carrying your key around or keeping it in a safe place when not being used. Make sure that the spare key is powered by an energy source. Set a reminder on your calendar or phone every two years to change the batteries.
It's tempting but it can cause more damage to tape or glue damaged pieces together. If a piece of your key gets damaged in the ignition, for example it could get stuck in the lock and require more expensive and complicated repair.
A locksmith can reseal a broken key with minimal damage to the lock and also create a new key fob if necessary. They can also program the chip into the 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 need of speed, it could be more convenient to purchase an additional key from an hardware store. It's crucial to keep in mind that keys typically contain transponder chips that require a specific machine to reprogram them. These machines can be expensive and are only available through a dealer.
It is also possible that you won't find the right key for the ignition lock on your vehicle or key fob. This can lead to further issues with your vehicle, and it can be difficult to drive it safely.
You can prevent this from happening by setting a reminder to a locksmith to make you a spare key as soon as is possible. They can also make copies for you to ensure that you are prepared in the event of an emergency. You'll save money as well as stress by doing this. If you don't have the time nor money to hire an expert locksmith to make new keys, you can use dry film lubricant.
Avoiding DIY Fixes
Car keys are loaded with delicate electronics that are better designed for a more relaxed life. However, they can still be battered when it comes to wear and tear. The rubbers that hold switches in place will eventually stretch and weaken, leaving them more susceptible to damage. This is particularly true if the key is dropped or knocked into a hard object. In these cases it's crucial to get the key repaired as quickly as possible.
A key that won't go into the ignition is a common issue. This is usually due to dirt that builds up on the teeth of the key if they aren't cleaned regularly. This can cause the pins to be misaligned over time, which makes it harder for them to slide into the ignition. The best way to prevent this issue is to clean the key with a sanitizer on a regular basis.
Applying a lubricant to help the key fit into the ignition is a second option that can make the process smoother. This is a temporary solution and not a long-term solution. In time, the key may be damaged by the lubricant, or by the moisture it holds inside of it.
If the key is bent, or if 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. It is not recommended to over-stretch it or you risk permanently damaging it.
You can also use a screwdriver to remove any pieces of plastic that have been ripped off of the key. It's not an easy procedure, but if willing to risk damaging the key, it could be worth the effort. It's a good idea to have a spare key made just in case.
If you're having trouble getting your car to start and the anti-theft light is on it is likely that the key has been reset. In this situation you'll need to go to an auto locksmith or dealer to get the key encoded. It's expensive however it is the only way to make your vehicle move again.
How to Contact the Locksmith
The most unpleasant of times can be when you lose your car keys. You might be filling your car at the gas station with groceries or driving home after a long workday when you realize that you've left your keys inside the car. Luckily, locksmith services are available quickly and easily even if you're in the middle of an emergency.
A skilled and licensed locksmith can assist you with a range of problems. They can repair or design a new car key, without causing any damage to the security system of your vehicle. They can also replace the lost key or fob if necessary.
They'll come equipped with non-destructive car opening techniques and the necessary tools for your particular vehicle. They'll use special equipment to encode the chip on your transponder key so that it can be recognized by your vehicle. This allows you to drive away without being left in a bind.
If you don't have a transponder key You can attempt to program your key yourself using an auto key programming guide. It's not recommended due to the high risk of corrupting the information stored in the module. Besides, you might not have the appropriate tools or know-how of the security system in your car to complete the task properly.
Another option is to go to an auto parts store that has key-cutting and programmable keys. This could be a cheaper option depending on your location and car model. It is recommended to verify the store's credentials as well as reviews from customers prior to you make your purchase.
In key car repair to a conventional key copy, your local locksmith may be able to give you keys for valet. Valet attendants use these keys to unlock and start cars when they are parked. They are not intended to open your trunk or glovebox however, they could be used for basic car maintenance tasks like topping off oil or checking the pressure of your tires.
It's not something you want to experience, but it can occur at any time. Metromile provides insurance that pays per mile for drivers. This insurance is affordable and lets drivers save money on their fixed monthly and per-mile expenses.