Blog entry by Clair Plante
Car keys get lost at the most inconvenient times, regardless of whether you're putting groceries into your trunk or sitting down to relax after an exhausting day. Most of the time, you'll have to call roadside assistance or go to the dealership to request replacements.
It is important to keep in mind that a locksmith is your best bet for quick and inexpensive key replacement. Here are some helpful tips to make the process more efficient:
Assessing Damage
It's important to call an expert as soon as you can when your car key is damaged. Depending on the type of key they could be automotive specialists or locksmiths. They may even be dealerships. They should have the proper tools and equipment to repair or replace the key without causing damage to your car or causing security issues.
First, it's important to assess the damage and figure out the cause of the issue. This will help the professional decide on the best method for fixing the key. If your key is broken within the ignition lock, it could be a serious issue that requires attention from a professional. It's best to leave the problem to the experts. If you try to turn your key forward and back could cause further damage.
A broken key fob is another common issue that requires immediate attention. This requires a more involved repair procedure, since it will likely need to be reprogrammed. This step is essential to ensure that the key is programmed to your specific vehicle, and it can only be completed by a professional. This usually requires you to show your identification and the VIN number of your vehicle.
Sometimes, there's no visible sign that your car key is broken. The metal teeth of the key can wear away over time, causing it to not fit in the ignition. This issue could also be caused by a chip that's not transmitting the correct code to the immobilizer system.
It is essential to check your car keys for signs of wear and tear, such as buttons that are smashed or damaged. This can be avoided by lubricating your keys regularly. Keep your keys clear of magnets and other objects that could interfere with the electronic components. Leaving your key fob in direct sunlight or exposing it to extreme temperatures can also be harmful.
Dropping your key can also cause serious damage. This is especially true if the key falls on an unprotected surface, like a sidewalk or road. It is best to use a strong key chain or pouch and to avoid putting your keys on a keyring with other things.
Keep Both Pieces
Car keys have sensitive electronic components that could be damaged by extreme temperatures. This is prevented by keeping your key with you at all times or placing it in a secure location when not in use. You should also make sure that your spare key has a working battery in it. To accomplish this, set an appointment on your phone or calendar to replace the battery every two years.
While it is tempting to glue or tape the broken pieces back together, this can cause further damage. If a piece of your key is damaged in the ignition, it can become lodged and require more expensive and complex repair services.
A locksmith can remove the broken key from the lock with a minimum of damage, and they can even create a new car key fob for you if required. A locksmith can program the chip on your replacement key to ensure it is compatible with the safety features of your vehicle. This will save you going to the dealer.
If you're in a hurry, it may be easier to buy an additional key from an hardware store. It is important to keep it in mind that these keys contain transponder chip that requires a special machine to reprogram. These machines can be expensive and are only available through a dealer.
You might not find keys that match your car's ignition lock or key fob. This can cause further problems for your vehicle and make it difficult to drive safely.
You can prevent this from happening by setting a reminder to a locksmith to make you an extra key as quickly as is possible. They can also make a duplicate for you so that you are prepared in the event of an emergency. This will save you lots of stress and cost in the long run. If you do not have the time or the money to pay a locksmith to make you new keys it is possible to use dry film lubricant.
Avoiding DIY Fixes
Car keys are stuffed with delicate electronics that are better designed for a more relaxed life. However, they can still take a beating when they are subject to wear and tear. The rubbers that keep switches in place will eventually shrink and become weaker, making them vulnerable to damage. This is particularly true if the key gets dropped or knocked into something hard. In these situations, it's important to have the key repaired as quickly as you can.
A key that won't go into the ignition is a common issue. If the teeth of the key aren't cleaned regularly, dirt may build up. This can cause the pins to become misaligned over time, which makes it harder for them to slide into the ignition. The best way to prevent this issue is to wash the key with a sanitiser on a regular basis.
Applying a lubricant to help the key fit into ignition is a second option that will make the process smoother. This is a temporary fix and not a permanent solution. In time, the key lock repair near me may be damaged by the lubricant or even by the moisture it traps within it.
Try using a mallet made of rubber in the event that the key is bent or it won't fit into the lock. This can be done by placing the key flat on a surface and then gently pounding it from the top. Don't bend it too much or you could permanently damage it.
You can also use a screwdriver in the event that you have any plastic pieces that have broken car key repair near me off from the key. This can be a tricky process, but it may be worth the effort if are willing to risk damaging the entire key. It's also recommended to have an extra key cut just in case something like this happens.
If you're having difficulty getting your car to start, and the anti-theft light is illuminated, there's a good chance that the key has been reset. In this situation, you'll need to visit a dealer or locksmith to get the key identified. It can be costly however it is the only method to make your car move.
Getting assistance from a Locksmith
The most unpleasant of times can be when you lose your car keys. You're laden with groceries at the gas station or returning home from an exhausting day, only to realize you left keys in your car. Locksmith services are accessible quickly and easily even in an emergency.
A locksmith who is licensed and skilled can assist you with different issues. They can repair or make a new car key, without causing any damage to your car's security system. If needed, they can replace a fob or a key that's been lost.
They will be equipped with the tools and techniques necessary to open your car without causing damage to it. They'll make use of specially designed equipment to code the chip in your transponder keys so that it can be recognized by your vehicle key repairs. This will let you leave without being in a bind.
If you don't own transponder keys You can attempt to program your key with the help of a car key programming guide. This is not recommended since there is a risk of damaging the data in the module. You might not have all the tools or knowledge about the safety system in your car key remote repair near me to complete the task correctly.
Another alternative is to visit an auto parts store that has key-cutting and programmable keys. This can be a cheaper option depending on your location and vehicle model. However, it is important to verify the credentials of the store and reviews from customers before you decide to visit the store.
Your locksmith might be able to provide you with a valet key in addition to the traditional key duplicate. They are utilized by valet attendants in order to unlock and start your vehicle while it's parked. They're not intended to open your trunk or the glovebox but they can be used to perform basic car maintenance like topping off oil or checking the tire's pressure.
It's not something that anyone wants to go through, but it can occur at any time. Metromile offers pay-per-mile insurance for drivers. This affordable coverage allows drivers to save on their fixed monthly and per-mile expenses.