Automotive Key Repair
Automotive key repair is one of the things that people don't think about until their car keys become damaged or they are locked out. Auto locksmiths are the most cost-effective, efficient and fastest solution.
If you attempt to fix the broken key back together, it may cause more damage to the ignition cylinder and the lock. It's best to leave it to a professional who will do it correctly the first time.
Broken Keys
A broken key is among of the most frustrating car issues. Keys can break in locks for various reasons, such as applying too much pressure while turning the key or other foreign objects inside the lock, and simply wear and tear. A professional locksmith will be able to resolve the issue, whether your key snapped in the lock or got stuck.
Before you attempt to remove a broken key it is important to be prepared with the proper tools. You will need to lubricate your lock in order to reduce friction and make it easier for you to remove the key fragment. You can make use of WD-40 or a dry lubricant to lubricate the lock. We recommend using WD-40 because it doesn't leave an oily residue that attracts dirt and grime. You can also try using needle nose pliers or tweezers that can grasp the protruding piece of the key and then pull it out of the lock.
If these tools do not work, you can try a hook style key extractor. This tool is specially designed to fit inside the lock and attach to a broken key fragment which makes it much easier to pull it out. This tool is used by inserting it between the lock and the broken key section, and then twisting it few times to grab the fragment and then pulling it out.
Another option is to make use of a paper clip or bobby pin remove the broken piece. However, we strongly advise against using any metal objects that could cause further damage to the lock or the key itself. Furthermore, wriggling the damaged key forwards and backwards while pulling may cause further damage to the lock.
If you're unable to remove the broken key with any of these tools it is recommended to call an auto locksmith. A professional locksmith has access to an array of tools and techniques, including specialized tools for automotive locks that can fix the issue without causing damage to the key or the lock.
Locked Out
Stay calm if you lock yourself out of your vehicle. You don't want your vehicle to be damaged while trying to open it, therefore you should not panic. Contacting a roadside assistance service or locksmith might be the best option if you're stuck. They're equipped with tools that unlock your car and are often covered by your car insurance.
If your key isn't turning inside the lock, it could be that it's corrosion-prone or there's an issue with the pin tumblers in the cylinder. Trying to force it in can cause more damage and you'll probably require the assistance of a professional to fix this issue.
Try applying lubrication to your lock by coating the key with graphite powder or graphite spray. This will act as an oily substance and help unlock tumblers of locks. You can also apply oil-based lubricants. Be careful not to make use of WD-40 or other aerosol lubricants, as they might attract more dust and debris that can make the lock more difficult to unlock.
Another possible solution is to put a flexible, long coat hanger made of wire in the gap between your door and the frame. You can inflate it by pouring air into the bladder, but take care not to over-inflate the device so that it becomes difficult to get through the gap. You can also use a device with an inflatable cuff that is designed specifically for this purpose, and there are even car lockout kits with these types of tools.
A good practice is to keep a spare key with you at all times. You never know when you will require it, and you don't want to have to face the frustration of being locked out of your own car. You can leave a spare key with a family member or neighbor, or purchase a smart lock to prevent this problem. It is connected to your smartphone, which means you'll be able to find it and open it if needed.
Key Fob Issues
The key fob is an excellent convenience however, it's not impervious to damage. Like other electronic devices, it's subjected to a lot of wear and tear from everyday use and the components. Fob buttons may become sloppy or ineffective, and if the internal circuitry has been damaged, it may not be able to communicate with the receiver in your vehicle. The good news is that the majority of key fobs are designed for reliability and are repairable.
The most frequent issue is a dead fob battery. Lithium batteries last a long time, but they eventually run out of juice. A simple replacement of the battery will make sure that the fob is able to unlock your doors and start your engine. To avoid damage to your fob, you need to select the right size battery.
Other issues are more difficult to diagnose. A fob may lose its connection to the car's receiver, and this could be difficult to solve by yourself. Some models require special methods of reprogramming that aren't listed 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 isn't working with the car, and this could be due to software updates or the latest technology, or just radio interference from nearby towers and devices. If your fob isn't working in certain areas, try moving it to another location or turning off any wireless devices that may be interfering.
key repairs taking your fob to the dealer if you're unsure what's wrong, or if it has been physically damaged. They are experts in these kinds of technical issues and can replace a key fob at lower costs than replacing the entire vehicle. They can also assist with other accessories for fobs, such as sturdy cases and stylish keyschains that shield your vehicle from theft, damage and interference with signals. They can also help organize and secure your keys with a variety of key organizers and provide additional security to your car by using key finder gadgets.
Lost Keys
Car keys can go missing at the most difficult times. If you lose your keys when you are loading groceries into the trunk, for example you'll end up with a large bag of food and no way to get home. Many people keep an extra car key at home or at the office. Fortunately, this issue can be solved quickly with the help of an automotive locksmith.
The first thing to do if you lose the car keys is to remain calm. It's important to not be anxious as this could cause the situation to get worse. Before moving on to the next step, try to remember all the places you may have put it and make sure you check them. car key fob repairs involves checking your junk drawer and filing cabinet in the event that you have them.
Keep a spare keys with you in case. You'll avoid the hassle of needing to call a locksmith in order to replace your key, and wait for them to show up.
Always check your warranty before calling an auto locksmith or going to an auto dealer. Certain car manufacturers have features that prevent you from getting your keys replaced by any other person than an authorized dealer. This could be done through the use of specially designed transponder chips that must be integrated into the car's electronics.
The kind of key you own is also important to consider when replacing your car keys. If you own a traditional key, you can usually contact an automotive locksmith to replace it for an affordable price than going to a dealership. However, if you own a smart key or a push-start key that requires a proximity sensor to activate it, only a dealership can handle this kind of job.
To determine whether your key is standard transponder, smart key or a standard one, it's a good idea write down your vehicle identification number (VIN). You can locate this number on the dashboard of your car or in your registration information. This will allow you to determine what kind of key you need and who can help you.