Car Key Repair Service
The most unpleasant moments occur when your car keys get lost when you're packing groceries into the trunk or simply taking a break after a long day at work. Most of the time, you'll have to contact roadside assistance or go to the dealership to request replacements.
A locksmith is the best option for a fast and affordable replacement keys. Here are some helpful tips to help you make the process simpler:
Assessing the extent of damage
If keys to your car are damaged, it is important to contact a professional right immediately. Based on the type of key, these professionals could be automotive specialists, locksmiths or even the dealership itself. They must be equipped with the appropriate tools and equipment to replace or repair the key without causing damage to your vehicle or creating security problems.
It is crucial to first evaluate the issue. This will allow the expert to decide on the best method for fixing the key. For example, if your key is missing from the ignition lock cylinder this could be a serious issue and requires professional attention. It's best to leave this issue to the experts. If you try to turn your key back and forth could cause further damage.
A damaged key fob is a common issue that requires immediate attention. This requires a more involved repair procedure, as it will likely need to be reprogrammed. This is necessary to ensure that the key is programmed for your specific vehicle, and it can only be completed by professionals. This typically involves presenting your identification and the VIN number of your car.
Sometimes there is no visible evidence of a broken car key. However, the key's teeth can wear out over time, which causes it to not fit properly 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 on a regular basis for signs of wear, for example scratch marks or buttons that are not in good condition. This can be avoided by lubricating your keys regularly. It's also important to keep your keys away from magnetic objects and other objects that could interfere with their electronic components. The presence of your key fob in direct sunlight or exposing it to extreme temperatures could also be harmful.
Dropping your key can also cause serious damage. This is especially true when it strikes hard surfaces like roads or sidewalks. Do not carry your keys in the same key ring as other items. Instead, use a strong pouch or a key chain.
Keep both pieces
Car keys have sensitive electronic components that could be damaged by extreme temperatures. This can be avoided by keeping your key with your person at all times or storing it in a secure location when not in use. Make sure that your spare key is powered by an energy source. Set a reminder in your calendar or phone for every two years to replace the batteries.
It's tempting but it could cause more damage to tape or glue damaged pieces together. If a part of your key gets damaged in the ignition, for example it may get stuck in the lock and require a more expensive and complex repair.
A locksmith can extract the broken key from the lock with minimal damage, and they can even design a brand new car key fob for you if needed. They can also program the chip inside your replacement key to ensure it is working correctly with your vehicle's security features, avoiding having to visit the dealer.
If you're in a hurry you may find it easier to purchase keys replacements at the hardware store. It's crucial to keep in mind that these keys often contain transponder chips that require a special machine to reprogram them. These machines are available only through a dealer, and they can be very expensive.
In addition, you might not be able find keys that match your car's key fob or ignition lock. This could lead to more problems with your vehicle and it could be very difficult to drive it in a safe manner.
To prevent this from happening, set a reminder to get a professional locksmith to make you a spare key immediately. They can also make a duplicate for you so you're ready in the event of an emergency. This will spare you a lot of stress and money in the long run. If you're not able to afford the time or cost of having a locksmith come to you to make a new car key, you should consider applying lubricant to 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 electronics that are more appropriate for a simple lifestyle. They can still take some abuse, but they are more prone to wear and tear. The rubbers that hold switches in place will eventually shrink and weaken, making them vulnerable to being damaged. This is especially true if the key gets dropped or knocked against something hard. In these instances it is crucial to get the key replaced as soon as possible.
A key that won't go into the ignition is a common problem. If the teeth of the key are not cleaned regularly, dirt can build up. As time passes, this can cause the pins of the key to misalign. This makes it difficult for them to slide in the ignition. This issue can be avoided by cleaning the key regularly using a sanitiser.
Another option to make the process easier is to use a lubricant. This is a temporary fix and not a long-term solution. As time passes the lubricant can damage the key or even trap moisture inside.
Try using a mallet made from rubber to break the key if it is bent, or if it won't fit into the lock. This can be done by placing the key on an even surface and then pounding it gently from the top. You don't want to over-stretch it or you risk permanently damaging it.
You can also use a screwdriver if you have any plastic pieces that are broken from the key. It's not an easy procedure, but if you're willing to risk damaging the key, it could be worth the effort. It's a good idea also to have a spare key made to be prepared in the event of a need.
If you're having trouble getting your car started and the anti-theft indicator is on, it's likely that the key was reset. If this is the case, you will have to visit an auto locksmith or dealer to get the key identified. It's expensive however, it's the only way to make your vehicle move.
How to get help from a Locksmith
Car key emergencies can happen at the most difficult moments. You may be loading your car at the fuel station with groceries, or driving home after a long day of work when you realize that you've left your keys inside the car. Locksmith services are readily available and easily, even in an emergency.
A locksmith who is licensed and skilled can assist you with many different issues. They can repair or make a new car key without causing damage to your car's security system. They can also replace the lost key or fob in the event of need.
They'll be equipped with non-destructive techniques for opening cars and the tools needed to work on your specific vehicle. If you've got transponder keys they'll utilize the specialized equipment to encode the chip in the key so that your vehicle can recognize it. This will let you drive away without being left stranded.
You can program your own key if don't already have an transponder. key repair car programming guide can help you. This is not recommended since there is a risk of damaging the data stored within the module. It is possible that you don't have the necessary tools or information regarding the safety features of your car to complete the task correctly.
Visit an auto parts shop which offers key cutting services and keys that are programmable. Depending on the location and vehicle's model, this may be a cheaper option. It is recommended to verify the credentials of the shop as well as reviews from customers before you decide to go.
Your locksmith might be able to supply you with a valet-key in addition to the traditional key duplicate. Valet attendants utilize these keys to unlock and start cars while they are in a parking. They're not intended to open the trunk or glove box, but they can be used for basic car maintenance tasks such as topping off your oil or checking the air pressure in your tires.
It's not something anyone wants to go through however, it could happen at any time. 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.