Automotive Key Repair
Most people don't consider automotive key repair until their keys to their car break or they are locked out. The quickest and most affordable solution is to go to an auto locksmith.
If you attempt to tape or glue a broken key back together could cause more damage to the lock and the cylinder for ignition. It is better to let a professional handle it right the first time.
Broken Keys
A damaged key is one of the most annoying car problems. There are a few reasons keys may break inside locks, such as applying too much force while turning, debris, or foreign objects in the lock, or simply wear and tear over the course of time. If your key broke within the lock or got stuck an experienced locksmith will solve the issue fast and effectively.
Before you attempt to remove a broken key it is important to have the proper tools. You will need to lubricate your lock in order to reduce friction and make it easier to remove the key fragment. You can apply WD-40 or any dry lubricant to lubricate the lock. We recommend using WD-40 because it doesn't leave behind any residue that could attract dirt and grime. You could also try using needle nose pliers or tweezers to firmly hold the protruding portion of the key, and then pull it out of the lock.
If these tools don't work, you may need to try a hook-style key extraction tool. It is designed to fit inside locks and hook on to a broken fragment of a key, making it easier to remove it. To use this tool, insert it between the lock and the broken section of the key. Then, turn it around a few times to grab the fragment and pull it out.
A paper clip or Bobby-pin is also a good option to pull the broken piece out. However, we strongly advise against using metal items that could cause further damage to the lock or key itself. In addition, trying to move the broken part back and forth while pulling it could further damage the lock or cause the key fragment to go deeper into it.
Finally, if you're unable to pull the broken key out with one of these tools, it might be best to call an auto locksmith to address the problem. A professional locksmith has access to more tools and technology. This includes tools specially designed to repair automotive lock systems that can fix the problem without damaging the lock.
Locked out
If you find yourself locked out of your car the first thing you need to do is stay calm. You don't want to risk having your car damaged while trying to unlock it, so you should avoid panicking. Calling a roadside assistance or locksmith may be the best option in case you're really stuck. They've got special tools for unlocking that can be used to get into your car, and they're typically covered under your car insurance.
If your key won't turn in the lock, it could mean that it has become corroded or that there is an issue with the pin tumblers in the cylinder. You can cause further damage by forcing it in. You'll need to call a professional if you want to resolve the issue.
Try to lubricate the lock by coating the key with powdered graphite or a graphite spray. This will act as a lubricant, and will aid in removing the lock tumblers from jams. If you are using oil-based lubricants they could also work. It is best to avoid using WD-40 aerosol lubricants as they attract dust and debris and make it more difficult to unlock the lock.
You can also use a long, flexible coat hanger wire to fill in the gap between the door and the frame. Inflate the rubber bladder by using air, but make sure not to over-inflate so that it is difficult to reach. You can also use a tool with an inflatable cuff that is designed specifically for this purpose, and there are even car lockout kits available equipped with these kinds of tools.
A good practice is to keep an extra key on hand at all times. You never know when it will be required, and you do not want to be locked out of your vehicle. You can always leave keys with a neighbor or family member or purchase a smart lock to avoid this issue completely. It connects to your smartphone, which means you can always locate it and then unlock it when you need to.
Key Fob Issues
The key fob may be useful, but it's not indestructible. Like other electronic devices, it is subject to many wear and tear from daily use and the components. The buttons on the fob can become loose or unresponsive. If the internal circuitry is damaged, the fob might not be able to communicate with the car's radio receiver. The good news is most key fobs have been developed to be reliable and repaired.
The most frequent issue is a dead key fob battery. Lithium batteries last for a lengthy time, but they do eventually end up running out of juice. A simple battery replacement will make sure that the fob is able to unlock your doors and start your engine. It is crucial to choose the correct size battery to avoid damaging the fob.
Other problems can be harder to identify. A fob may lose its connection to the car's receiver, and this isn't easy to fix on your own. Certain models require special reprogramming that is not mentioned 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 possible that your fob isn't working with the car, and this can be due to software updates or the latest technology, or simply radio interference from nearby towers and devices. If your fob isn't working in certain locations, try moving to a different location, or turning off any wireless devices that might interfere with the signal.
It's worth taking your fob to the dealer if you're not sure what's wrong, or if it has been physically damaged. They are experts in the kind of issues that tech experts face, and they can usually replace a fob for less than replacing the entire vehicle. They can also help with other fob accessories, such as sturdy cases and stylish keychains that protect your car from theft, damage and signal interference. They can also organize and secure your keys with various key organizers, and also add security to your car by using key finder devices.
Lost Keys
It is possible to lose your car keys at the most inconvenient of circumstances. You could be left with heavy bags of food items and have no way back when you lose your car keys while loading groceries in the trunk. Many people keep an extra car key at home or at work. This type of issue can usually be solved quickly by a locksmith for automobiles.
Be calm if you lose your car key. It is essential not to be in a panic, as this could make things worse. Make a list of all the possible places you could have placed it and look in them before moving on to the next step. This is the time to check your junk drawer and filing cabinet should you have them.
Keep a spare key with you just in case. This will avoid the hassle of calling a locksmith and having wait for them to arrive and replace your key.
Always check car key and repair to calling an auto locksmith or going to a dealership. Certain automobile manufacturers have security features that block anyone but a dealer from replacing your keys. This can include the use of specialized transponder chips which must be connected to the vehicle's electronic system.
Another important factor to consider when it comes to replacing your car keys is the type of key you have. You can contact an automotive locksmith for a traditional key and get it replaced for less than going to the dealership. However, if you have an intelligent key or push-start key that requires a proximity sensor in order to activate it then only the dealership can handle this type of job.
It's a good idea to note down your vehicle identification number (VIN) in order to determine if your key is a transponder, smart keys or standard key. You can locate this number on the dashboard of your car or in your registration details. This will help you determine what kind of key you need and who can assist you.