Car Key Repair Service
Car keys can break at the most inconvenient times, whether you're loading groceries into your trunk or sitting down to relax after an exhausting day. In most cases, you're forced call roadside assistance or visit the dealership for replacements.
A locksmith is the best choice for a fast and affordable replacement of a key. Here are some tips to make the process easier:
Assessing the Damage
It is essential to contact a professional as soon as you can when your car key is damaged. Depending on the type of key the professionals may be locksmiths or automotive specialists. They could even be dealerships. They must be equipped with the right tools and equipment to repair or replace the key without causing damage to your vehicle or causing security problems.
It is essential to first determine the issue. This will allow the expert to choose the best method of fixing the key. For instance, if your key is missing from the cylinder of the ignition lock, this can be a serious issue 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 let an expert handle these issues.
A damaged key fob is another frequent problem that requires immediate attention. A broken key fob could require a more intricate repair, as it might need to be reprogrammed. This step is essential to ensure that the key is programmed for your specific vehicle. It is only possible to do this by an expert. remote key fob repair involves presenting your identity and the VIN number of the vehicle.
Sometimes there is no visible evidence of a damaged car key. The teeth made of metal on the key may wear away over time, causing it to not fit properly in the ignition. This problem can be caused by a chip is not transmitting the correct code to the immobilizer.
It's important to periodically inspect your keys to see if there are signs of wear and tear such as scratches or loose buttons. This can be prevented by regularly lubricating your keys. Keep your keys away magnets and other objects that could affect the electronic components. If you leave your key fob in direct sunlight or exposing it to extreme temperatures can also be harmful.
Then, dropping your keys could cause serious damage. This is especially true when the key is struck by the hard surface, like roads or sidewalks. Avoid carrying your keys in the key ring along with other things. Instead, you should use a strong pouch or a key chain.
Keep Both Pieces
Extreme temperatures can harm electronic components of car keys. You can stop this from happening by carrying your key with you or placing it in a secure location when not in use. Make sure that your spare key is powered by an energy source. Set a reminder on your calendar or phone for every two years to replace the batteries.
It's tempting but it can cause more damage to tape or glue broken pieces together. If a part of your key is broken in the ignition, for example, it can become lodged in the lock, requiring a more costly and complex repair.
A locksmith can remove the broken key with little damage from the lock, and create a brand new key fob in the event of need. They can also program the chip in your replacement key to ensure that it works correctly with your vehicle's security features, saving you a trip to the dealership.
If you're in need of speed, it could be easier to buy keys at the hardware store. It's crucial to remember that these keys usually contain transponder chips that require a specific machine to reprogram them. These machines can be costly and are only available through a dealer.
You may also not be able to find keys that match your car's ignition lock 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 for locksmiths to make you a spare key as soon as possible. They can also create duplicate keys for you, so that you're prepared in case of an emergency. This will save you lots of stress and cost in the long run. If you don't have the time or the money to pay a locksmith to make you new keys You can apply lubrication to your fob with dry film lubricant.
Avoiding DIY Fixes
Car keys are stuffed with delicate electronics that are better suited to an easier life. However, they can be a bit rough when they experience wear and tear. The rubbers that hold switches in place will eventually stretch and weaken, leaving them more susceptible to damage. This is particularly true if the key is dropped or knocked into something hard. In such instances it is crucial to get the key repaired as soon as possible.
The most frequent issue is a key that won't fit into the ignition. If the teeth of the key aren't cleaned regularly, dirt can build up. As time passes, this can cause the pins of the key to misalign. This makes it difficult to slide into the ignition. The best way to avoid this issue is to clean the key using a sanitiser on regular basis.
Another easy way to speed up the process is to use a lubricant. However, this is only a stopgap measure and is not a long-term solution. As time passes, the key may be damaged by the lubricant or by the moisture that it traps inside of it.
If the key is bent, or if it doesn't fit all the way into the lock, try using a mallet made from rubber to straighten it. This can be done by laying the key flat on the surface and gently pounding from the top. Be careful not to bend it too far or you risk permanently damaging it.
You can also use a screwdriver if you have any plastic pieces that are been ripped off from the key. This can be a challenging procedure, but it could be worth the effort if you are willing to risk damaging the entire key. It's a good idea also to make a backup key just in case.
If you're having trouble starting your car and the anti-theft warning light is on, it's likely that the key was reset. If this is the case, you'll have to visit a locksmith or dealer to get the key identified. It can be costly, but it is the only method to get your car moving.
Get assistance from a Locksmith
The most inconvenient of times could be when you misplace your car keys. You're filling your trunk with groceries at the gas station, or returning home after an exhausting day only to realize you left keys in your car. Locksmith services are accessible quickly and easily even in the event of an emergency.
A certified and experienced locksmith can assist you with many different problems. They can repair or design a new car key, without causing any damage to the security system of your vehicle. If needed, they can replace a key or fob that has been lost.
They'll have non-destructive methods for opening your car and the necessary tools for your particular vehicle. If you've got transponder keys, they'll use the specialized equipment needed to code the chip in the key so that the vehicle will recognize it. This allows you to leave the vehicle without being stranded.
If you don't have a transponder key You can attempt to program your key yourself using an instruction manual for programming car keys. This is not recommended as there is a risk of damaging the data stored within the module. It is possible that you don't have the right equipment or know-how about the safety system in your car to do it right.
Another alternative is to visit an auto parts shop that provides keys that can be cut and programmable. This is a less expensive option depending on your location and the car model. However, you should always check the store's credentials and reviews from customers before deciding to visit the store.
In addition to a standard key copy, your locksmith may be able to provide you with the valet key. Valet attendants make use of these keys to open and start cars while they are parked. They're not designed to open your trunk or glovebox but they could be used for basic car maintenance like topping off oil and checking the tire's pressure.
It's not something that anyone wants to go through but it can occur at any time. Metromile offers insurance with pay-per-mile for drivers. This affordable coverage allows drivers to save on their monthly fixed and per-mile costs.