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Automotive Key Repair Most people don't consider the repair of their automobile keys until their keys are damaged or are locked out. Auto locksmiths are the most cost-effective and speediest solution. If you try to fix the broken key back together, it can cause more damage to the cylinder of ignition and the lock. It's better to let a professional handle it right the first time. Broken Keys A broken key is one of the most frustrating car problems. Keys can break through locks for a variety of reasons, such as applying too much pressure while turning the key, debris or foreign items in the lock, and simply wear and tear. A professional locksmith will be able to solve the issue, regardless of whether your key slipped out of the lock or got stuck. It is essential to have the right tools at hand before you try to remove a broken lock. It is essential to lubricate the lock to reduce friction and enable you to remove the key fragment. This can be done with a dry lubricant or WD-40, though we recommend using the latter because it doesn't leave behind residue that can collect dirt and grime over the course of time. You can also use needle nose pliers or tweezers that can grasp the protruding part of the key and pull it out of the lock. If the tools you've tried do not work, try a hook-style key extractor. It is designed to fit inside a lock and hook on to a damaged piece of the key, making it easier to remove it. This tool is placed between the lock and the broken key section, and then twisting it a few times to catch the fragment and then pulling it out. Another option is to make use of a paper clip or bobby pin to remove the broken piece. We strongly recommend against using any metal objects as they could cause further damage to either the lock or key. Additionally, attempting to move the broken key back and forth as you pull it can further damage the lock or push the key fragment even deeper into it. If you are unable to get the key out of the damaged lock using any of these tools, it is best to contact an auto locksmith. A professional has access to a wider range of tools and techniques, including specialized tools for automobile locks, which can fix the issue without causing damage to the key or the lock. Locked out If you find yourself locked out of your car the first thing you need to do is remain calm. Panicking can make it harder to find a solution and you don't want to damage your vehicle when trying to unlock it. If you're really stuck calling a locksmith or other roadside assistance may be your best option. They're equipped with special tools to unlock your car and are typically covered by your insurance. If your key won't turn inside the lock, it could be that it's corroded or that there is an issue with the pin tumblers inside the cylinder. You could cause more damage by forcing it in. It is recommended to call a professional if you want to solve the issue. Try key fob repairs by coating the key with powdered graphite, or a graphite spray. This acts as a lubricant, and will help unjam lock tumblers. You can also use oil-based lubricants. It is best to avoid using WD-40 aerosol lubricants since they can attract dust and debris, making it more difficult to unlock the lock. You can also use a flexible, long coat hanger made of wire to fill the gap between the door and the frame. You can inflate it by pouring air into the rubber bladder, but be cautious not to over-inflate it so that it becomes difficult to get through the gap. You can use a tool equipped with an inflatable cuff that is specifically designed for this use. There are even lockout kits that include these types of tools. It is a good idea to keep an extra key in your pocket at all times. You never know when it might be needed, and you do not want to be locked out of your car. You can leave a spare key with someone in your family or with a neighbor, and also buy a smart lock to keep you safe from this problem. It is linked to your smartphone so you can open and find it at any time you need. Key Fob Issues The key fob may be handy, but it's not indestructible. Like other electronic devices, it's subjected to lots of wear and tear resulting from daily use and the components. Key fobs are susceptible to becoming unresponsive or loose and, if the internal circuitry is damaged, it may not be able to communicate with the receiver inside your car. The good news is that most key fobs are designed 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 get depleted of power. The fob can be returned to its original function by replacing the battery. It is essential to select the correct size of battery to prevent damage to the fob. Other issues could be more difficult to determine. It's not easy to fix a device that has lost its connection with the car's receiver. Some models require special methods of reprogramming that aren't listed in your owner's manual. A locksmith or dealer with experience in your vehicle's model and make can help you troubleshoot the issue. It's possible that your device isn't working with the car, and this could be the result of software updates, new technology, or simply radio interference from nearby towers and devices. If your fob isn't functioning in certain locations try moving to a different area or shutting 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're experts in the kind of issues that tech experts face and are able to replace a fob for less than replacing the entire vehicle. They can also help with other accessories for fobs including 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 also add security to your car with key finder gadgets. Lost Keys Car keys can go missing at the most difficult moments. If you lose your keys when you load groceries into the trunk, for instance you'll be left with a huge bag of food and no way to return home. This is why many people keep an extra car key in their office or home. Luckily, this type of problem can be resolved quickly with the help of an automotive locksmith. The first thing you need to do if you've lost the car keys is to stay calm. It is crucial not to panic, as this can make things worse. Make a list of all the places you may have placed it and look in them before moving onto the next step. This is the time to check your junk drawer and filing cabinet in the event that you have them. Keep a spare keys in your case. You'll save yourself the hassle of having to call a locksmith to replace your key and then wait for them to show up. Always check your warranty prior to calling an auto locksmith or going to the dealership. Certain car manufacturers have specific features that stop the keys from being replaced by any other person than a dealer. This can include the use of special transponder chips that must be integrated into the vehicle's electronic system. The type of key that you have is also a factor to take into consideration when replacing your car keys. If you have a traditional key, you can usually call an automotive locksmith to replace it for an affordable price than going to a dealer. If you own a smart or push-start key that needs a proximity sensor in order to function, only a dealership can do this type of job. It's a good idea record the vehicle identification number (VIN) in order to determine if your key has an electronic transponder, smart key or standard key. You can find this number on the dashboard of your car or in your registration details. This will allow you to determine the kind of key you need and who can assist you.