Car Key Repair Service
The most uncomfortable moments are when your car keys break regardless of whether you're taking groceries out of the trunk or enjoying a relaxing evening after a long working day. Often, you're forced to call roadside assistance or go to the dealership for replacements.
A locksmith is the best choice for a quick and affordable replacement key. Here are some helpful tips to make the process easier:
Assessing the extent of damage
If your car keys are damaged, it's crucial to get a professional in touch with you right away. Depending on the type of key they could be automotive specialists or locksmiths. They may even be dealerships. They should have the proper tools and equipment to repair or replace the key without damaging 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 decide on the best method for fixing the key. If your key is broken within the ignition lock, it can be a serious problem that requires professional attention. The act of turning the key in a circular motion could cause further damage, and this is why it's always best to have a professional handle these issues.
Another issue that requires urgent attention is a damaged key fob. A broken key fob could require a more complicated repair, as it might need to be reprogrammed. This step is essential to ensure that the key is programmed to your specific vehicle, and it must be done by professionals. This usually requires you to show 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 can become worn out over time, which causes it to not fit correctly in the ignition. This issue could also be caused by a chip not sending the correct code to the immobilizer system.
You should inspect your keys periodically for signs of wear, for example scratch marks or buttons that are not in good condition. This can be avoided by regularly lubricating your keys. It's also important to keep your keys away from magnets and other items that could interfere with their electronic components. If you leave your key fob in direct sunlight or exposing it to extreme temperatures can also cause harm.
In the end, dropping your key can cause major damage. This is especially true when it falls on hard surfaces, like roads or sidewalks. It's best to use a sturdy key chain or pouch, and to avoid carrying your keys on a key ring that has other items.
Keeping Both Pieces
Car keys are brittle electronic components that are susceptible to being damaged by extreme temperatures. You can avoid this from happening by always carrying your key with you or putting it in a secure location when not in use. Make sure that the spare key is powered by a battery. To accomplish this, set an alarm on your calendar or phone to replace the battery every two years.
It's tempting but it could cause more damage to tape or glue broken pieces together. If a part of your key breaks in the ignition, it can be stuck and require more expensive and complicated repair services.
A locksmith can reseal damaged keys with minimal damage to the lock and can create a new key fob if necessary. They can also program the chip inside your replacement key to ensure it is working properly with your car's security features, avoiding a trip to the dealership.
If you're in a hurry, it may be simpler to purchase a new key at the hardware store. But, it's important to keep in mind that these keys often contain transponder chips that require a special machine to reprogram them. These machines can be expensive and are only available through a dealer.
Additionally, you might not be able to find the right key for your car's key fob or ignition lock. This could cause additional problems for your vehicle and make it difficult to drive safely.
To avoid this, create a reminder to have a professional locksmith make you a new spare key as soon as possible. They can also make duplicate keys so that you are ready in the event of an emergency. This will spare you lots of stress and money in the end. If you're unable to spend the time or money of having a locksmith come to you to make a brand new car key, consider the possibility of lubricating your fob using dry film lubricant, or three-in-one oil to keep it from freezing in cold weather.
Avoiding DIY Fixes
The car keys are filled with gadgets that are appropriate for a simple lifestyle. They can still withstand plenty of abuse when it comes down to wear and tear. The rubbers that hold the switches in place stretch and weaken and leave them vulnerable to damage. This is particularly true if the key gets dropped or knocked against something hard. In such cases it is essential to fix the key as soon as you can.
A key that doesn't fit into the ignition is a frequent problem. This is often caused by dirt that collects on the keys teeth if they aren't cleaned regularly. This can cause the pins to misalign as time passes, making it harder to slide into the ignition. The best way to prevent this issue is to wash the key with a sanitizer on a regular basis.
Another easy way to speed up the process is to apply lubricant. This is a temporary solution and not a long-term solution. Over time, the key may be damaged by the lubricant, or by the moisture it holds inside of it.
Try using key repair service made of rubber to break the key if it is bent or it won't fit into the lock. This can be done by laying the key flat on the surface and then gently pounding it 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 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 also to keep a spare key in place to be prepared in the event of a need.
If you're having difficulty getting your car started and the anti-theft warning light is on, it's likely that the key was reset. In this case you'll have to visit an authorized locksmith or dealer to get the key coded. It can be costly however it is the only way to get your vehicle moving again.
How to Get Help from the Locksmith
Car key emergencies occur at the most inconvenient times. You're loading up your trunk with groceries at the station or heading home after a long day when you realize you left keys in your car. Locksmith services are available quickly and easily even in an emergency.
A skilled and licensed locksmith can help you with a variety of issues. They can repair or create a new car key without damaging your car's security system. If necessary, they can replace a fob or a key that has been lost.
They'll come equipped with non-destructive techniques for opening cars and the necessary tools for your particular vehicle. If you have transponder keys they'll make use of the specific equipment needed to code the chip inside the key so that your vehicle will recognize it. This will allow you to drive away from being stranded.
You can program your own key if you don't have an transponder. A car key programming guide can assist you. This isn't recommended as there is a risk of damaging the data stored within the module. You may not have the necessary equipment or know-how about your car's safety system to complete the task correctly.
Another alternative is to visit an auto parts store that has key-cutting and programmable keys. This can be a cheaper option based on your location and the car model. However, it is important to check the store's credentials and customer reviews before making a decision to go there.
The locksmith you visit may be able to supply you with a valet key in addition to the standard key duplicate. Valet attendants make use of these keys to open and start vehicles while they are in a parking. These are not designed to open your trunk or the glovebox, but could be used for basic car maintenance tasks like topping off oil or checking tire pressure.
No one ever wants to be left without a car however, it's a possibility that could happen anytime. Metromile offers pay-per-mile insurance for drivers. This coverage is affordable and gives drivers the opportunity to save money on monthly fixed costs and per-mile charges.