20 Things Only The Most Devoted Car Key Repair Service Fans Know
Car Key Repair Service
Car keys can break at the most inconvenient times, regardless of whether you're putting groceries into your trunk or just sitting down to relax after a long day. You're often forced to call roadside assistance or go to the dealership to obtain a replacement.
It's important to keep it in mind that a locksmith is your best bet for quick and cost-effective key replacement. Here are some tips for making the process smoother:
Assessing the extent of damage
When car keys get damaged, it is important to call a professional away. Based on the type of key, these experts could be locksmiths, automotive specialists, or even the dealership itself. They must have the right tools and equipment to repair or replace the key without causing damage to your car or causing security issues.
It's crucial to determine the extent of the damage and figure out what's wrong. This will allow the expert to determine the best approach to fixing the key. For instance, if your key is damaged inside the cylinder of the ignition lock this could be a serious issue and requires professional attention. Turning the key in a circular motion could cause more damage, so this is why it's always best to have a professional deal with these issues.
Another common issue that needs immediate attention is a broken key fob. This requires a more complex repair process, as it is likely to require reprogramming. This step is crucial to ensure that the key is programmed to your particular vehicle, and can only be completed by professionals. This typically involves presenting identification and the VIN number.
Sometimes there's no visible indication that your car key is damaged. However, the key's steel teeth can become worn out over time, causing it to not fit properly in the ignition. This issue could also occur if the chip isn't sending the right code to the immobilizer.
It is important to regularly check your keys to check for signs of wear and tear such as buttons that are damaged or scratched. Regular lubrication can also aid in preventing this from happening. It is also essential to keep your keys away from magnets and other items that could cause interference to their electronic components. Leaving your key fob in direct sunlight or subjecting it to extreme temperatures can also cause harm.
Dropping your key can also cause serious damage. This is especially true if it strikes hard surfaces like roads, sidewalks, or even the pavement. It is best to choose a sturdy key chain or pouch, and to avoid putting your keys on a key ring that has other items.
Keep both pieces
Extreme temperatures can harm electronic components in car keys. This can be avoided by keeping your keys with your person at all times or storing it in a secure location when not in use. Also, ensure that your spare key is powered by a battery. To do this, set a reminder on your phone or calendar to change the battery each two years.
While it may be tempting to tape or glue the broken pieces back together, doing so can cause further damage. If a part of your key fails in the ignition, it could get stuck and require expensive and complicated repair services.
A locksmith can remove the damaged key from the lock with minimal damage, and they can even design a new car key fob for you if required. A locksmith can program the chip on your new key to work with your vehicle's safety features. This will avoid having to go to the dealership.
If you're on the run it may be better to buy an additional key at a hardware store. It's important to keep in mind that these keys have a transponder chip that requires an additional machine to reprogram. These machines can be expensive and are only available through a dealer.
It is also possible that you won't be able to find keys that match your car's ignition lock or key fob. This could create additional issues for your vehicle and make it difficult to drive safely.
To avoid this, you should make a note to get a professional locksmith to make you a spare key immediately. They can also make copies for you to ensure you're ready in the event in the event of an emergency. This will save you a lot of stress and money in the long run. If you're not able to afford the time or money of having a locksmith visit you to make a new car key, consider applying lubricant to your fob using dry film lubricant or three-in-one oil to prevent it from freezing during cold weather.
Avoiding DIY Fixes
The keys to your car are loaded with electronics that are more appropriate for a simple lifestyle. That said, they can be a bit rough when they are subject to wear and tear. The rubbers that hold switches in place will eventually stretch and become weaker, making them susceptible to damage. This is especially true if the key gets dropped or knocked into something hard. In these instances it's crucial to get the key replaced as soon as possible.
A key that won't go into the ignition is a typical problem. If the teeth of the key are not cleaned regularly, dirt may build up. This can cause the pins to be misaligned over time, making it harder to slide into the ignition. The best way to prevent this problem is to clean the key with a sanitiser on a regular basis.
Applying a lubricant to help the key fit into the ignition is a second option that can make the process smoother. This is a temporary solution and not a permanent one. In time the key can be damaged by the lubricant or even by the moisture it traps inside of it.
Try using a mallet made from rubber in the event that the key is bent or if it won't fit into the lock. This can be done by placing the key on a flat surface and hitting it with a mallet from the top. It is not recommended to make it too slack or you could permanently damage it.
You can also use a screwdriver to remove any pieces of plastic that have broken off from the key. It's not an easy process, but if you're willing to risk damaging the key, it could 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 warning light is on it is likely that the key has been reset. In this situation, you'll need to visit a dealer or locksmith to get the key encoded. It can be costly however it is the only method to get your car moving again.
Need Assistance from a Locksmith
The most embarrassing of situations could be when you've lost your car keys. You're laden with groceries at the gas station, or returning home from an exhausting day, only to discover that you've left your keys in the car. Luckily, automotive key repair can be found quickly and efficiently even in the middle of an emergency.
A skilled and licensed locksmith can assist you with a range of issues. They can repair or create a new car key, without causing any damage to your vehicle's security system. They can also replace a lost key or fob when needed.
They'll be equipped with the tools and techniques needed to unlock your vehicle without damaging it. They'll employ specially designed equipment to code the chip of your transponder keys so that it can be recognized by your vehicle. This allows you to drive away without being stuck.
If you don't own transponder keys, you can try to program your own key using an instruction manual for programming car keys. However, this isn't recommended due to the significant risk of corrupting the data stored within the module. In addition, you may not have the appropriate tools or understanding of the security system on your car to complete the task properly.
Another option is to go to an auto parts store that has keys that can be cut and programmable. This can be a cheaper option depending on your location and vehicle model. However, you should always verify the credentials of the store and reviews from customers before making a decision to go there.
In addition to a standard key copy, your locksmith may be able to provide you with keys for valet. Valet attendants utilize these keys to unlock and start cars while they are stationary. They're not intended to open the trunk or glove box, but they can be used to perform basic car maintenance tasks such as topping off your oil or checking the pressure of your tires.
It's not a good idea to be stranded without a car but it's a fact that can happen at any moment. It's best to be ready by keeping an extra key in a safe location and using an auto locksmith that has a specialization in emergency services and also consider pay-per mile car insurance from Metromile. This coverage is affordable and gives motorists to save money on monthly fixed costs and per-mile charges.