Car Key Repair Service
The most unpleasant moments occur when your car keys get lost regardless of whether you're loading groceries into the trunk or simply taking a break after a long day at work. You're often forced to contact roadside assistance or visit the dealership to get a replacement.
Locksmiths are the best choice for a fast and affordable replacement keys. Here are some suggestions for making the process smoother:
Assessing the extent of damage
If your car keys are damaged, it's crucial to get a professional in touch with you right away. Based on the type of key, these professionals may be locksmiths, automotive specialists or even the dealership itself. They must have the right tools and equipment to repair or replace the key without damaging your vehicle or causing security issues.
It's important to first assess the damage. This will enable the expert to determine the best method to repair the key. For instance, if your key is broken off inside the ignition lock cylinder this could be a serious issue and requires professional attention. Trying to turn the key back and forth can cause more damage, so this is why it's best to have a professional take care of these issues.
Another issue that requires urgent attention is a damaged key fob. This will require a more complicated repair procedure, since it will likely require reprogramming. This step is crucial to ensure that the key is specifically programmed for your vehicle. It should only be done by an expert. This usually requires identification and the VIN number.
Sometimes there is no visible evidence of a broken car key. The metal teeth of the key may wear away over time, causing it to not fit in the ignition. This issue can be caused by a chip not sending the correct code to the immobilizer system.
You should check your keys regularly for signs of wear, for example scratches or buttons that are loose. Regular lubrication can help prevent this from occurring. Keep your keys clear of magnets and other objects that could cause interference to the electronic components. It could be 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. More Signup bonuses is best to choose a sturdy key chain or pouch, and avoid putting your keys on a key ring that contains other items.
Then, keep both pieces
Car keys are brittle electronic components that could be damaged by extreme temperatures. You can prevent this from happening by always carrying your key with you or placing it in a safe place when not being used. It is also important to ensure that your spare key has a functioning battery. Set a reminder in your phone or calendar for every two years to change the batteries.
It's tempting but it could cause more damage to glue or tape broken pieces together. If a part of your key breaks in the ignition, it could become lodged and require more expensive and complex 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 correctly with your vehicle's security features, avoiding having to visit the dealer.
If you're in a rush it may be easier to purchase an additional key at the hardware store. It's important to keep in mind that these keys contain transponder chip that requires a special machine to reprogram. These machines are only available at a dealer and can be very expensive.
In addition, you may not be able find keys that match the fob on your car's key or ignition lock. This could cause further problems with your vehicle and it can be difficult to drive it in a safe manner.
You can prevent this from happening by putting a reminder in place for locksmiths to create an additional key as quickly as they can. They can also create copies for you to ensure you're ready in the event of an emergency. This will spare you a lot of stress and money in the end. If you're unable to spend 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 keep it from freezing in cold weather.
Avoiding DIY Fixes
The keys in the car are stuffed with electronic gadgets that are suitable for a more simple life. That said, they can be a bit rough when they experience wear and tear. In time, the rubbers that hold the switches in place are stretched and weaken and leave them susceptible to being damaged. This is particularly true if the key gets hit or dropped on something hard. In such cases it is crucial to repair 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 teeth of the key if they aren't cleaned regularly. This can cause the pins to become misaligned over time, which makes it difficult for them to slide into the ignition. The best method to avoid this problem is to clean the key with a sanitiser on a regular basis.
Another simple solution to make the process easier is to make use of a lubricant. However, this is only an interim measure and is not a long-term solution. As time passes the lubricant could harm the key or trap moisture within.
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. You can do this by laying the key flat on a piece of paper and gently pounding from the top. Be careful not to bend it too much or you risk permanently damaging it.
You can also use a screwdriver in the event that you have any pieces of plastic that have broken from the key. It's not an easy process, but if you're willing to risk damaging your key, it might be worth the effort. It's a good idea to have a spare key made 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. If this is the case, you will need to visit a locksmith or dealer to get the key identified. It can be costly but it's the only method to get your car moving.
How to Contact the Locksmith
Car key emergencies occur at the most inconvenient moments. You're laden with groceries at the gas station or returning home from an exhausting day only to realize that you've forgotten your keys in the car. Fortunately, locksmith services are available quickly and easily even if you're in the middle of an emergency.
A certified and experienced locksmith can assist you with different issues. They can repair or create a new car key, without causing any damage to the security system of your vehicle. If required, they will replace a fob or key that has been lost.
They'll have the tools and techniques needed to open your vehicle without causing damage to it. They'll make use of specialized equipment to code the chip in the transponder key to ensure that it can be recognized by your vehicle. This will let you leave the vehicle without being stranded.
You can program your own keys if you do not have a 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. In addition, you may not have the right tools or know-how of your car's security system to do it correctly.
Another alternative is to visit an auto parts store that has keys that can be cut and programmable. Depending on the location and your vehicle's model, this may be a cheaper option. Always verify the store's credentials as much as reviews from customers prior to you go.
Your locksmith might be able to provide you with a valet key in addition to the traditional key copy. Valet attendants make use of these keys to open and start vehicles while they are in a parking. They're not intended to open your trunk or the glovebox but they could be used for basic car maintenance tasks like topping off oil and checking tire pressure.
Nobody wants to be stuck without a vehicle, but it's a reality that could happen anytime. It's best to be ready by keeping a spare key in a safe place or using an auto locksmith that has a specialization in emergency services, and considering pay-per-mile car insurance from Metromile. This affordable coverage lets drivers save on their fixed monthly and per-mile costs.