Car Key Repair Service
The most unpleasant moments occur when your car keys get lost, whether you are taking groceries out of the trunk or enjoying a relaxing evening after a long working day. Most of the time, you'll have to call roadside assistance or visit the dealership for replacements.
It's important to keep it in mind that a locksmith will be the best option for fast and affordable key replacement. Here are some tips for making the process smoother:
Assessing Damage
When car keys get damaged, it is important to contact a professional right immediately. Depending on the key type the professionals may be automotive specialists or locksmiths. They could even be dealerships. They should be equipped with the appropriate tools and equipment to repair or replace the key without damaging your vehicle or creating security issues.
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 damaged inside the cylinder for ignition locks, this can be a serious issue that requires professional attention. Turning the key back and forth could cause further damage, and this is why it's best to have a professional deal with these problems.
Another issue that is common and requires immediate attention is a broken key fob that is damaged. This will require a more complicated repair process, as it is likely to require reprogramming. This step is necessary to ensure that the key is specifically programmed for your vehicle. It can only be accomplished by an expert. This typically involves presenting your identity and the VIN number of your car.
Sometimes, there is no visible evidence of a broken car key. But the key's metal teeth can become worn out over time, which causes it to not fit correctly in the ignition. This problem could be caused by a chip 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 avoided by regularly lubricating your keys. Keep your keys clear of magnets and other objects that could interfere with the electronic components. It could be dangerous to expose your key fob to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight.
The dropping of your keys can cause serious damage. This is especially true if the key hits a hard surface, like the road or sidewalk. Avoid carrying car key repair service in the same key ring as other items. Instead, you should use a sturdy pouch or key chain.
Then, keep both pieces
Extreme temperatures can cause damage to electronic components in car keys. This can be avoided by keeping your key with your person at all times or storing it in a secure place when not being used. Also, ensure that your spare key has a working battery in it. To do this, you can set an appointment on your phone or calendar to replace the battery every two years.
While it may be tempting to tape or glue the broken pieces back together, doing so could cause more damage. If a component of your key is damaged in the ignition, it may get stuck and require costly and complex repair procedures.
A locksmith can reseal a broken key with minimal damage from the lock, and also create a new key fob should it be needed. A locksmith can program the chip in your replacement key to ensure it is compatible with your vehicle's safety features. This will spare you having to go to the dealer.
If you're on the run you may find it easier to purchase an additional key from the hardware store. It's important to keep in mind that these keys include a transponder chip that requires an additional machine to reprogram. These machines can be costly and are only available through a dealership.
It is also possible that you won't find a key to match your car's ignition lock or key fob. This could lead to more problems with your vehicle and it could make it difficult to drive it safely.
You can prevent this from happening by putting a reminder in place for locksmiths to create an extra key as quickly as is possible. They can also make copies for you to ensure that you're prepared in case of an emergency. This will save you lots of stress and money in the end. If you don't have the time or money to hire a locksmith to make you a new key You can lubricate your fob using dry film lubricant.
Avoiding DIY Fixes
The keys in the car are stuffed with electronics that are more suitable for a simpler life. They are still able to take a lot of abuse when it comes to wear and tear. In time, the rubbers that hold the switches in place will stretch and weaken and leave them vulnerable to being damaged. This is especially true if the key is dropped or knocked against something hard. In such instances, it is important to get the key repaired as soon as you can.
The most frequent issue is a key that does not fit into the ignition. This is often caused by dirt that builds up on the keys teeth when they're not cleaned regularly. In time, this could cause the pins of the key to misalign. This makes it difficult to slide into the ignition. This problem can be avoided by cleaning the keys regularly using the use of a sanitiser.
Applying a lubricant to help the key fit into ignition is another simple solution that will make the process more comfortable. This is a temporary solution and not a long-term solution. In time the key could be damaged by the lubricant or by the moisture that it traps within 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. This can be accomplished by placing the key on a flat surface and pounding it gently from the top. Be cautious not to bend it too much or you could end up damaging it.
You could also use a screwdriver if you have any pieces of plastic that have been ripped off from the key. This can be a challenging process, but it may be worth the effort if are willing to risk damaging the entire key. 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 getting your car to start and the anti-theft light is illuminated it's likely that the key has been reset. In this instance you'll need to go to a dealer or locksmith to get the key coded. It can be costly but it's the only method to get your car moving again.
How to get help from an Locksmith
Car key emergencies happen at the most difficult moments. You're loading up your trunk with groceries at the gas station or heading home after a long day when you realize that you've forgotten your keys in the car. Locksmith services are readily available and easily even in an emergency.
A professional and licensed locksmith can help you with a range of issues. They can repair or design a new car key without damaging your vehicle's security system. They can also replace keys or fobs that have been lost if necessary.
They'll be equipped with non-destructive techniques for opening cars and the necessary tools for your particular vehicle. They'll make use of special equipment to encode the chip of the transponder key to ensure that it is recognized by your vehicle. This will enable you to leave the vehicle without being stuck.
You can program your own key if don't have an transponder. A car key programming guide will help you. But, this isn't recommended because there is a significant risk of corrupting the information stored within the module. Besides, you might not have the appropriate tools or understanding of the security system on your car to complete the task properly.
Visit an auto parts store which offers key cutting services and keys that are programmable. This is a less expensive option depending on your location and car model. You should always check out the store's credentials as well as reviews from customers before you make your purchase.
Your locksmith might be able to provide you with a valet key in addition to the standard key copy. Valet attendants make use of these keys to open and start vehicles while they are stationary. They're not designed to open the trunk or glove box, however they are able to be used for routine maintenance tasks for your car, such as topping up your oil and checking the air pressure of your tires.
Nobody wants to be stranded without a vehicle, but it's a reality that could happen anytime. Metromile provides insurance that pays per mile for drivers. This coverage is affordable and lets drivers save on their fixed monthly and per-mile expenses.