Car Key Repair Service
Car keys break at the most inconvenient times, whether you're loading groceries into your trunk or just sitting down to relax after a long day. Most of the time, you'll have to contact roadside assistance or visit the dealership to request replacements.
It's important to keep it in your mind that a locksmith is the best choice for fast and affordable key replacement. Here are some suggestions to help make the process more smooth:
Assessing the damage
When car keys get damaged, it's crucial to contact a professional right away. Depending on the kind of key, these professionals may be locksmiths, automotive specialists, or even the dealership itself. They should have the proper tools and equipment to repair or replace the key without damaging your vehicle or creating a security issue.
It's important to first assess the issue. This will enable the expert to decide on the best approach to fix the key. If key repairs is damaged within the ignition lock, it could be a serious problem that requires professional attention. It is best to leave these problems to the experts. Trying to turn your key back and forth can cause further damage.
Another issue that requires urgent attention is a damaged key fob. This requires a more involved repair process, as it will most likely need to be reprogrammed. This is essential to ensure that the key is specifically programmed for your vehicle. This can only be completed by an expert. This usually requires identification and your vehicle's VIN number.
Sometimes there's no obvious sign that your car key is damaged. But the key's metal 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 check your keys on a regular basis for signs of wear, like scratches or loose buttons. This can be prevented by lubricating your keys frequently. It is also essential to protect your keys from magnets and other items that can interfere with their electronic components. It's harmful to expose your key fob to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight.
Finally, dropping your key could cause significant damage. This is especially true when it strikes hard surfaces such as sidewalks or roads. Do not carry your keys in the key ring along with other things. Instead, use an appropriate pouch or key chain.
Keep Both Pieces
Car keys are brittle electronic components that are susceptible to being damaged by extreme temperatures. You can prevent this from happening by carrying your key with you or placing it in a safe place when not being used. Also, ensure that your spare key has a working battery. Set a reminder in your calendar or phone for every two years to change the batteries.
While it is tempting to tape or glue the broken pieces back together, it could cause more damage. If a component of your key breaks in the ignition, it may get stuck and require expensive and complex repair services.
A locksmith can take the broken key from the lock with a minimum of damage, and they can even create a new car key fob for you if required. They can also program the chip in the replacement key to ensure that it works correctly with your vehicle's security features, saving you going to the dealership.
If you're on the run you may find it better to buy keys replacements from the hardware store. It's crucial to keep in mind that these keys often contain transponder chips that require a specific machine to reprogram them. These machines are only available at a dealer and can be extremely expensive.
Additionally, you might not be able find the right key for your car's key fob or ignition lock. This can lead to further problems with your vehicle and it can be difficult to drive it in a safe manner.
You can prevent this from happening by setting a reminder to locksmiths to make you an extra key as quickly as possible. They can also make an additional key so that you are prepared in the event of an emergency. This will spare you a lot of stress and money in the end. If you're unable to spare the time or money of having a locksmith visit you to make a brand new car key, consider applying lubricant to your fob using dry film lubricant, or three-in-one oil to prevent it from freezing in cold weather.
Avoiding DIY Fixes
Car keys are loaded with delicate electronics that are better at surviving a simpler life. They can still withstand some abuse when it comes down to wear and tear. The rubbers that secure switches will eventually stretch and weaken, making them susceptible to being damaged. This is especially true when the key gets hit or dropped on something hard. In these situations, it's important to have the key repaired as quickly as possible.
A key that won't go into the ignition is a common issue. If the teeth of the key are not cleaned frequently, dirt will build up. This can cause the pins to be misaligned over time, which makes it more difficult for them to slide into the ignition. The best way to prevent this issue is to clean the key with a sanitiser on a regular basis.
Another easy way to make the process easier is to apply lubricant. However, this is only an interim measure, and is not a long-term solution. As time passes the key can be damaged by the lubricant or by the moisture it holds inside of it.
Try using a mallet made from rubber if the key is bent or it won't fit into the lock. You can do this by laying the key flat on a surface and then gently pounding it from the top. Be careful not to bend it too far or you risk permanently damaging it.
You can also use a screwdriver in the event that you have any plastic pieces that are broken off from the key. It's not an easy procedure, but if you're willing to risk damaging your key, it could be worth the effort. It's also a good idea to keep a spare key in place to be prepared in the event of a need.
If you're having trouble starting your car and the anti-theft light is on, it's possible that the key was reset. In this case, you'll need to visit an authorized locksmith or dealer to get the key identified. It can be costly however it is the only method to make your car move again.
Get Assistance from a Locksmith
The most unpleasant of times can be when you lose your car keys. You're filling your trunk with groceries at the gas station or returning home from an exhausting day only to realize you left keys in your car. Locksmith services are readily available and easily, even in an emergency.
A certified and experienced locksmith can help you with a variety of different issues. They can design new keys or fix your existing one without damaging the security system of your car. They can also replace the lost key or fob when needed.
They will be equipped with the tools and techniques necessary to unlock your vehicle without causing any damage. If you've got a transponder key, they'll use the specialized equipment required to code the chip in the key in a way that your vehicle will recognize it. This allows you to drive away without being stuck.
You can program your own key if do not have a transponder. A car key programming guide can help you. It's not recommended due to the high chance of destroying the information stored within the module. It is possible that you don't have all the equipment or know-how about the safety system in your car to do it right.
Visit an auto parts shop that offers key-cutting services and keys that are programmable. Based on the location and car's model, this could be a better option for you in terms of cost. 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 copy, your locksmith may be able to provide you with the valet key. Valet attendants use these keys to unlock and start cars when they are parked. These are not intended to open your trunk or glovebox, but could be used for basic car maintenance like topping off oil or checking the pressure of your tires.
No one ever wants to be stranded without a vehicle, but it's a reality that can happen at any time. Metromile offers insurance with pay-per-mile for drivers. This affordable coverage lets drivers save money on their fixed monthly and per-mile costs.