5 Automotive Key Repair Lessons From The Professionals

Automotive Key Repair

Repairing the keys to your car is one of those things most people don't think about until their car keys are damaged or locked out. Auto locksmiths are the most cost-effective, efficient and fastest solution.

Attempting to glue or tape the broken key back together could cause further damage to the lock and the cylinder for ignition. It's best to leave it to a professional who knows how to repair broken car key to do it right the first time.

Broken Keys

A damaged key is one of the most frustrating car problems. Keys can break through locks for many reasons, such as applying too much pressure when turning the key or removing foreign objects inside the lock, and simply wear and tear. A professional locksmith can swiftly resolve the issue, whether your key slipped out of the lock or became stuck.

Before you attempt to remove the key that is broken, it's important to be prepared with the proper tools. You'll need to lubricate the lock in order to reduce friction and make it easier to remove the key fragment. You can make use of WD-40 or a dry lubricant for lubricating the lock. We recommend using WD-40 since it doesn't leave behind a residue that will attract dirt and grime. You can also use a pair or needle nose pliers or tweezers to grab the protruding end of the key and pull it from the lock.

If none of these tools work it is possible to try a hook-style key extractor tool. This tool is designed to fit into the lock and hook onto a broken key fragment, making it easier to pull out. The tool is placed between the lock and the key fragment that is broken, twisting it a few times to catch the fragment, and pulling it out.

A paper clip or bobby-pin can also be used to break the fragment out. We strongly suggest against using any metal objects that could cause further damage to the lock or key itself. Furthermore, wriggling the damaged key forwards and backwards pulling can further damage the lock.

If you are unable to remove the broken key with any of these tools it is best to contact an auto locksmith. A professional locksmith has access to a variety of tools and technology. This includes tools specifically designed to repair automotive lock systems which can fix the issue without causing damage to the lock.

Locked Out

Be calm if you lock yourself out of your vehicle. You don't want your car key repair damaged while trying to unlock it, so it is important not to panic. If you're really stuck, calling a locksmith or roadside assistance may be your best option. They're equipped with special tools to unlock your car, and are usually covered by your car insurance.

If your key won't turn in the lock, it could mean that it's damaged or has an issue with the pin tumblers within the cylinder. You can cause further damage by pushing it into. It is recommended to call a professional if you want to fix the problem.

Try to lubricate the lock by coating the key with powdered graphite, or a graphite spray. This acts as a lubricant, and will help unlock tumblers of locks. You could also try oil-based lubricants. Avoid using WD-40 aerosol lubricants because they can attract dust and debris, making it more difficult to open the lock.

Another option is to stick a flexible, long coat hanger wired in the gap between your door and the frame. Inflate the rubber bladder with air, but don't over-inflate so that it is difficult to reach. You could also use a tool that has an inflatable cuff specifically 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 in your pocket at all times. You never know when it will be needed, and you do not want to be locked out of your vehicle. You can leave an extra key with someone in your family or with a neighbor, or purchase a smart lock to keep you safe from this problem. It is connected to your smartphone, which means you can unlock and locate it at any time you need.

Key Fob Issues

The key fob is convenient, but it is not impervious to destruction. Like other electronic devices, it's exposed to lots of wear and tear from everyday use and the elements. Fob buttons can become loose or unresponsive. If the internal circuitry has been damaged, the key fob may not be capable of communicating with the car's receiver. The good news is that the majority of key fob repair fobs are designed to ensure reliability and are repairable.

The most frequent issue is a dead fob battery. Lithium batteries last a long time, but eventually they are unable to function properly. A simple replacement of the battery will make sure that the fob is able to unlock your doors and start your engine. It is crucial to choose the correct size of battery to avoid damage to the fob.

Other issues may be more difficult to diagnose. A fob could lose its pairing with the car's receiver and this could be difficult to solve by yourself. Some models require special programming procedures that aren't covered in the owner's manual. A locksmith or dealer who has experience with your vehicle's make and model can help you troubleshoot the problem.

If your fob isn't working in certain locations Try changing locations or shutting off any wireless devices that may interfere with the signal. If your fob doesn't work in certain places move it to a different location or turning off wireless devices that could be interfering.

If you're not sure of what the issue is, or if the key fob is physically damaged, you should consider taking it to the dealership. They are experts when it comes to the kind of issues that tech experts face and can typically replace a fob at less than replacing the entire vehicle. They can also help with other accessories for fobs, like sturdy cases and stylish keyschains, which protect your vehicle from damage, theft and signal interference. They can also help organize and keep your keys safe with various key organizers, and also add security to your vehicle with key finder devices.

Lost Keys

Car keys can get lost at the most difficult times. If you lose your keys when you load groceries into the trunk, for instance you'll end up with a huge food bag and no means of getting home. Many people keep an additional car keys repair near me key at home or at work. Fortunately, this problem can be resolved quickly with the help of an automotive locksmith.

Be calm if you lose your vehicle key. It is important to not be in a panic, as this could cause more damage. Try to think of all the possible places you might have put it and look in them before moving on to the next step. This step also includes checking your junk drawer or professionals filing cabinet if you have one.

It's also an excellent idea to keep a spare set of keys on hand in case you lose yours. This will help you avoid the headache of calling a locksmith only to have wait for them to arrive and replace your key.

You should always check your warranty before calling an auto locksmith or going to an auto dealer. Certain car key repair shop near me manufacturers have features that stop you from getting your keys replaced by any other person than an authorized dealer. This can include the use of specialized transponder chips that must be connected to the vehicle's electronic system.

Another important factor to consider when replacing your car keys is the type of key you own. If you own a traditional key, you can usually contact an automotive locksmith to replace it for less than going to a dealer. If you own a smart or push-start key that requires the use of a proximity sensor to function, only a dealer can handle this kind of work.

To determine if your key is a standard, transponder or smart key it is a good idea to write down your vehicle identification number (VIN). You can find this number on the dashboard of your vehicle or in your registration information. This will help you decide the kind of key you require and who can help you.