Automotive Key Repair
Repairing your car keys is one of the things most people do not think about until their car keys are damaged or they are locked out. Auto locksmiths are the most cost-effective and fastest solution.
If you try to tape or glue a damaged key back together could cause further damage to the lock and the cylinder for ignition. It is best to leave the repair to a professional who can do it correctly the first time.
Broken Keys
A broken key is one of the most annoying and frustrating car problems to resolve. Keys can break through locks for many reasons, including applying too much pressure when turning the key or other foreign objects inside the lock, or simply wear and wear and tear. If your key broke in the lock or got stuck, a professional locksmith can resolve the issue quickly and effectively.
It's important that you have the right tools at hand before you try to remove the broken lock. You'll need to lubricate the lock so you can reduce friction and allow you to easily remove the key fragment. You can apply WD-40 or any dry lubricant to lubricate your lock. We recommend using WD-40 because it doesn't leave behind a residue that will attract dirt and grime. You can also use needle nose pliers or tweezers that can grasp the protruding piece of the key and then pull it out of the lock.
If none of these tools work then you might need to try a hook-style key extraction tool. It is designed to fit into a lock and hook on to a broken fragment of a key which makes it easier for you to remove it. This tool can be used by inserting it between the lock, and the key fragment that is broken, and then twisting it a few times to grab the fragment and then pulling it out.
A paper clip or a Bobby-pin is also a good option to pull the broken piece out. We strongly advise against using any metal items since they can cause further damage to either the lock or the key. Additionally, wriggling the broken key forwards and backwards pulling could cause further damage to the lock.
If you're unable to get the key out of the damaged lock using any of these tools it is best to consult an auto locksmith. A professional locksmith has access to a variety of tools and techniques. This includes tools specifically designed for automotive lock systems that can solve the issue without causing damage to the lock.
Locked Out
If you are locked out of your car the first thing you should do is to remain calm. Stress can make it difficult to find a solution, and you don't want to damage your vehicle while trying to open it. Contacting a roadside assistance service or locksmith may be the best solution if you're really stuck. They're equipped with special tools to unlock your car and are typically covered by your car insurance.
If your key isn't turning inside the lock, it could be that it's become damaged or has an issue with the pin tumblers inside the cylinder. If you try to force it into the lock, it can cause more damage, and you'll probably require the help of an expert to resolve this issue.
Try to lubricate your lock by coating the key with graphite powder or graphite spray. This will act as a lubricant, and will aid in removing the lock tumblers from jams. If you have oil-based lubricants they might work too. It is best to avoid using WD-40 aerosol lubricants as they can attract dust and debris, making it more difficult to unlock the lock.
Another option is to stick a long, flexible wire coat hanger in the space between your door and the frame. You can inflate it by putting air into the bladder, but take care not to over-inflate it so that it becomes difficult to get through the gap. You can make use of a tool with an inflatable cuff which is designed for this purpose. There are car key repair service that come with these kinds of tools.
It's an excellent idea to have a spare car keys. You never know when it might be needed and you don't want to be locked out of your vehicle. You can always leave a key to a family member or purchase a smart lock to avoid this problem altogether. It is connected to your smartphone, which means you will be able to locate it and unlock it when required.
Key Fob Issues
The key fob might be handy, but it's not impervious to destruction. Like other electronic devices, it's exposed to many wear and tear from everyday use and the components. The buttons on the fob can become unresponsive or loose. If the internal circuitry is damaged, the fob may not be capable of communicating with the car's receiver. The good news is that most key fobs are made for durability and can be repaired.
The most frequent issue is a dead key fob battery. Lithium batteries last for a long time, but they eventually end up running out of juice. A simple battery replacement will restore the fob's ability to unlock your doors and start your engine. To ensure that you don't damage your fob, it is important to select the correct size battery.
Other issues may be more difficult to diagnose. It's often difficult to fix a fob that has lost its pairing with the car's receiver. Some models require special reprogramming that is not included in the owner's manual. A locksmith or dealer who is familiar with your vehicle's model and make can help you with the problem.
It's also possible that your fob is simply out of sync with the car, and this could be caused by software updates or new technology, or just radio interference from nearby towers and devices. If your fob isn't functioning in some places try moving to a different location or shutting off any wireless devices that might be interfering with the signal.
If you're unsure of what the issue is, or if the key fob is physically damaged, it's worth taking it to the dealership. They're experts in the kind of issues that tech experts face, and they can usually replace a fob at a much lower cost than replacing the entire vehicle. They can also assist with other accessories for fobs such as sturdy cases and stylish keyschains, that protect your vehicle from damage, theft and interference with signals. They can also keep your keys secure and organized with a broad selection of key organizers and even add extra security by using key finder gadgets.
Lost Keys
It is possible to lose your car keys in the most inconvenient of instances. You could end up with a an enormous bag of food items and have no way back when you lose your car keys when putting groceries in the trunk. Many people keep an extra car key at home or at the office. Luckily, this type of issue can be solved quickly with the help of an automotive locksmith.
Be calm when you lose your vehicle's key. It is crucial not to panic, as this can cause more damage. Before moving to the next step, make sure you remember all the places you may have put it and check them. This is also a good time to check your junk drawer or filing cabinet if you have one.
Keep an extra set of key with you just in case. This will save you the hassle of calling a locksmith only to have to wait for them to arrive and replace your key.
You should always check your warranty before calling an auto locksmith or visiting a dealership. Some auto manufacturers have features that prevent any other person than a dealer from replacing your keys. This can include using specialized transponder chips that have to be paired up with the electronic system of your vehicle.
The type of key that you have is also important to take into consideration when replacing your car keys. You can contact an automotive locksmith to replace keys that are traditional and have it replaced for less than going to the dealership. However, if you own an electronic key or push-start key that requires a proximity sensor to activate it, only a dealership is able to handle this kind of job.
To find out if your key is a standard transponder, smart key or a standard one, it is a good idea to note down your vehicle identification number (VIN). This can be found on the driver's side dashboard or in your registration details. This will help you determine what kind of key you require and who is able to assist you.