Car Key Repair Service
Car keys get lost at the most inconvenient times, regardless of whether you're putting groceries in your trunk or simply sitting down to relax after a long day. Most of the time, you'll have to call roadside assistance or go to the dealership for replacements.
Locksmiths are the best option for a quick and affordable replacement keys. Here are some tips to help make the process more smooth:
Assessing Damage
When car keys get damaged, it's important to get a professional in touch with you right immediately. Based on the type of key, these professionals may be automotive specialists, locksmiths, or even the dealership itself. They should have the proper tools and equipment to replace or repair the key without damaging your vehicle or creating security problems.
It's crucial to assess the damage and figure out the cause of the issue. This will allow the professional to choose the best way to repair the key. For example, if your key is broken off inside the cylinder of the ignition lock, this can be a serious issue that will require expert attention. It's best to leave the problem to experts. If you try to turn your key back and forth could cause further damage.
Another common issue that needs immediate attention is a broken key fob that is damaged. This requires a more complex repair procedure, as it will most likely need to be reprogrammed. This step is essential to ensure that the key is programmed for your specific vehicle. It can only be completed by a professional. This typically involves presenting your identity and the VIN number of the vehicle.
Sometimes there is no visible evidence of a broken car key. However, the key's steel teeth can become worn out over time, which causes it to be unable to fit in the ignition. This issue could also be caused by a chip that's not sending the correct code to the immobilizer system.
You should inspect your keys on a regular basis for signs of wear, like scratch marks or buttons that are not in good condition. This can be avoided by lubricating your keys frequently. It's also important to keep your keys away from magnets and other items that can interfere with their electronic components. It could be harmful to expose your key fob to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight.
A key that is dropped can cause serious 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 contains other items.
Keep Both Pieces
Extreme temperatures can harm electronic components in car keys. This can be avoided 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 batteries. Set a reminder on your calendar or phone for every two years to replace the batteries.
While it may be tempting to glue or tape the broken pieces back together, doing so could cause more damage. If a piece of your key fails in the ignition, it can be stuck and require more costly and complex repair procedures.
A locksmith can extract the broken key from the lock with little damage, and they can even create a new car key fob for you if needed. They can also program the chip into your new key to ensure it is working correctly with your vehicle's security features, saving you having to visit the dealer.
If you are in need of speed, it could be easier to buy keys at a hardware shop. It's crucial to remember that keys typically contain transponder chips that require a specific machine to reprogram them. These machines are only available at a dealer and can be very expensive.
It is also possible that you won't find the right key for the ignition lock on your vehicle or key fob. This could cause additional problems for your vehicle and make it difficult to drive safely.
You can prevent this from happening by setting a reminder to locksmiths to make you an additional key as quickly as possible. They can also make duplicate keys so that you are prepared in the event of an emergency. This will save you a lot of stress and cost in the long run. If you don't have the time nor budget to hire locksmiths to create new keys it is possible to use dry film lubricant.
Avoiding DIY Fixes
Car keys are stuffed with delicate electronics that are better designed for a more relaxed life. That said, they can still take a beating when they experience wear and tear. In time, the rubbers that hold the switches in place stretch and weaken and leave them susceptible to being damaged. This is particularly true if the key is dropped or knocked against something hard. In these situations it is essential to fix the key in the shortest time possible.
A common problem is a key that does not fit into the ignition. This is often caused by dirt that collects on the keys teeth when they're not cleaned regularly. This can cause the pins to become misaligned over time, making it harder to slide into the ignition. This issue can be prevented by cleaning the key regularly using the use of a sanitiser.
Another easy way to make the process easier is to apply fluid lubricant. However, this is only an interim measure, and not a long-term fix. Over time, the key may be damaged by the lubricant, or by the moisture that it traps within it.
Try using a rubber mallet in the event that the key is bent or it will not go into the lock. This can be accomplished by placing the key on an even surface and then pounding it gently from the top. Be careful not to bend it too much or you could end up damaging it.
You can also use a screwdriver to remove any pieces of plastic that have broken off from the key. It's not an easy process, 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 in case of need.
If you're experiencing difficulty getting your car started and the anti-theft indicator is on, it's possible that the key was reset. In this situation, you'll need to visit a dealer or locksmith to have the key coded. It could be expensive however it is the only method to make your car move again.
Getting assistance from a Locksmith
The most embarrassing of situations could be when you've lost your car keys. You're laden with groceries at the station or returning home after an exhausting day only to discover that you've left your keys in the car. Locksmith services are accessible quickly and easily, even in an emergency.
A certified and experienced locksmith can assist you with different issues. They can create new keys or fix your current one without causing damage to the security system of your car. They can also replace keys or fobs that have been lost when needed.
They'll have non-destructive car opening techniques and the tools needed for your particular vehicle. If you own transponder keys they'll utilize the specialized equipment required to code the chip inside the key so that the vehicle will recognize it. This allows you to leave the vehicle without being stranded.
You can program your own key if don't already have an transponder. car key remote repair programming guide will help you. However, this isn't recommended because there is a significant risk of corrupting the information stored in the module. It is possible that you don't have the right equipment or know-how about your car's safety system to do it right.
Another option is to go to an auto parts store that offers keys that can be cut and programmable. Based on the location and car's model, this could be a better option for you in terms of cost. Always verify the credentials of the shop as well as reviews from customers prior to you go.
In addition to a traditional key duplicate, your local locksmith may be able to provide you with keys for valet. Valet attendants make use of these keys to open and start cars while they are in a parking. They're not designed to open your trunk or glove box, however they are able to be used for routine car maintenance tasks like topping up your oil and checking the air pressure of your tires.
It's not something that anyone wants to experience however, it could happen at any time. Metromile offers insurance with pay-per-mile for drivers. This coverage is affordable and lets drivers save money on their monthly fixed and per-mile costs.