The 10 Most Scariest Things About Car Keys Repair

Car Keys Repair Near Me

The days of a corner locksmith making new car keys are long gone. Modern vehicles rely on an electronic lock that requires a specific key fob to operate.

AutoZone provides a less expensive alternative to a dealership for key fob replacement and programming. An associate will choose the appropriate blank key for your year and model, then use a copy machine to copy your current key.

Lost Keys

Nothing is worse than losing your keys. It's the top reason why it's an excellent idea to keep an extra key in your pocket at all times. There are several ways to replace your keys if you've lost them. The first step is search for them everywhere you might have keys. Check your purse pockets on your pants and jackets and even places where you wouldn't normally go to, such as behind a desk or on the floor. If you're still unable to locate them, you need to contact a locksmith.

Depending on the type of key you own, the procedure for obtaining a replacement will vary. The ignition cylinder of traditional vehicles that have keys made of metal are usually simple to replace. Locksmiths can usually make a new key for you immediately, so you can identify the year and model of your car and have proof that you are the owner, like the registration or title.

But the situation is more complicated with more modern vehicles. Contact your car manufacturer or a locksmith who is knowledgeable about this type of key. They can make you a new key and reprogram it for your vehicle so that it will start when you insert it into the ignition. This is called key reprogramming and it can be expensive, based on the car model.

Another option for a modern car is if you have breakdown coverage. Some breakdown providers will send someone to assist you in gaining access to your car and may even be able to provide you with keys. This isn't the cheapest option, but it is the quickest and easiest.

In the worst-case scenario you may need to take your vehicle to the dealer if you are unable to find your keys. Dealers can give you a key however, they'll charge you more. If you're unable to spend the cost of one key, it is best to keep one spare.

Broken Keys

It's easy to lose your keys when you're trying to get somewhere. You could be in the car, loading the trunk with groceries, or doing a quick errand, when you reach inside to shut the door. Sadly, your keys could get stuck in the lock, and break in two with a jarring, gut-wrenching snap. Luckily, you can overcome this kind of accident using common tools you have around the home or in your vehicle.

First, make sure that the cylinder where your key broke is either in its open or locked position. If you try to remove a broken key that's still inside the lock you'll push it deeper into the cylinder and aggravate the issue.

If you have a pair of needle nose pliers paperclips or tweezers on hand, they can be very efficient in removing a broken key from locks. The trick is aligning the blade's serrations with the biting on the broken key. The blades will grasp the key with minimal effort and then dig into it.

The blades of a small hacksaw or jigsaw can also be used to cut keys, particularly in the event that the crack is deep within the lock. If possible, insert the tip of the blade into the top of the lock, making sure the serrations are lined up with the broken portion of the key. The key should then come out with a twist and a little pulling.