15 Best Auto Key Repair Bloggers You Should Follow
Auto Key Repair Near Me
You can't predict when you'll lose your car keys. It's always at the worst possible moment.
You could call your dealership and ask them to create you a new key, but they charge huge amounts of money. In addition, they may not have the kind of key you require on hand.
Lost Keys
Not too long in the past, losing or misplacing a car key was not a major issue. Locksmiths were able to quickly and cheaply replace it. However, as cars have become more technologically advanced, so too do their keys, and replacing one can be an expensive endeavor. Richard Reina, CARiD's training director, explains that based on the type of key you have the procedure of regaining access may be a lengthy process and cost hundreds of dollars.
It can happen for many reasons, but most often it happens when you are in a rush or distracted and forget to check where you placed your keys. This is why having a backup set up in a safe place is so important, and why it's essential to retrace your steps in case you lose them.
Start by thinking back to the last time you had them, and then go through every place you could have placed them. Look in your pocket or on the floor of the car (including the trunk) or at your desk at work, or anywhere you might have been sitting, such as the dining room table in the middle of lunch or waiting for a ride-sharing service to take you to the airport.
Also, think about whether you've given an extra key away to anyone. If so, you should contact them to find out whether they've discovered yours. Don't forget to look around your home, since keys are often hidden underneath couch cushions or on top of mail stacks.
If you haven't found your keys, the next step is to determine the kind of key you have and who you should call to replace it. In some cases you might need go to a dealer to have a new key made in particular if it is equipped with a transponder chip or other technology that needs changing.
If you have traditional locksmiths are able to make a new one right there and then. In the majority of cases you'll need the registration or title of your vehicle or any other evidence of ownership to the dealership. You'll need to bring an ID photo along with any spare keys you might have.
Transponder Keys
It's almost certain that your car key contains transponder. These chips are designed to prevent car thefts by ensuring that only the owner is able to start the vehicle. The chips work by sending a message from the key to the antenna ring that surrounds the ignition cylinder. The computer in your car will then match the "password" that is sent via the key, with an authorized list of codes and if the code matches, the engine will start.
Transponder keys are extremely useful but can also be problematic if they get lost or stolen. They are, for one, extremely difficult to duplicate since they are unique because they have a microchip. The only way to duplicate the transponder key is using an original that has already been programmed. This can be done by a professional locksmith, the local dealership of the manufacturer, or a reputable auto shop.
Although it is possible to program certain transponder keys yourself, many people prefer to hire a professional to do the job. This is because there are a lot of steps involved, and every vehicle's anti-theft system works differently. The process is best completed by a professional helps to ensure that the new key will be properly programmed and will work correctly.
Transponder keys should be maintained to ensure that they continue to perform as they should. This means keeping it clear of water or extreme temperatures and making sure you don't drop it. If you accidentally drop your key, it's best to visit a professional locksmith or car manufacturer's local dealership as soon as you can to have it replaced.
remote key repair is easier to replace a key operated mechanically however, it is recommended to keep a spare transponder. You will save yourself the hassle and expense of having your car's computer reprogrammed in the event that you lose the only key. This is because the anti-theft devices that are built into the majority of automobiles will require the original key to re-program, and this process can be very time-consuming.
Key Fobs
It may seem a bit absurd to think that your most important fob could be prone to failure, but it isn't at all common. Fobs contain batteries and circuits that can be vulnerable to damage from a number of sources. Extreme shocks, exposure liquids or water and sudden shocks could result in them not functioning.
Many of the issues with key fobs can be easily resolved. The first thing to look into is the battery, which can easily be replaced at the hardware store or at a large retailer that sells automotive batteries. If it's not the battery, the problem could be worn out contacts in the fob which prevent it from communicating to the receiver inside the vehicle. The majority of them are made of a rubber-like substance and coated with an electric conducting film that can wear off with time due to repeated use. It is possible to clean them by removing the fob, and disassembling it. After that, carefully soldering the contacts back in place can restore them to working condition.
In some cases it is possible to reprogramme the fob to reconnect with the car's receiver is all that's needed. This can usually be done by following a procedure which can be found in the owner's manual, or through online research of your specific model of car. If you are unable to find the instructions for the specific model of your car, a dealer or independent shop that specializes in the model of your vehicle will be able help.
Certain vehicles, particularly older models with less sophisticated security systems, allow owners to purchase replacement fobs at specialized retailers or online vendors and follow a procedure to program them on their own. This is an affordable alternative to visiting the dealer however, it's important to remember that this method is only available on vehicles that don't require special security protocols to activate. According to CR, Audi and Subaru dealers cannot use aftermarket keys to reprogram cars with digital encryption.
Certain key fobs from the aftermarket might be difficult to program into your vehicle. Therefore, some dealers are reluctant to accept aftermarket key fobs and will only accept a new one from the auto manufacturer.
Bluetooth Key Trackers
A Bluetooth tracker (also known as a key finder) is a small device that you can attach to your personal belongings, such as your keys or wallet. The app that you use on your smartphone will stay connected to the tracker for as long as the device is within range when you connect it using Bluetooth. If you lose track of the item by pressing a button on the tracker will trigger it to ring, so you can locate it. You can also make use of the tracking feature on your phone to see the map of its last location.
Most Bluetooth trackers run on rechargeable batteries. Based on the model, this could add convenience to your life since you can keep one device charged and ready to find items that you've lost. But, you'll have to be aware of the battery's performance since these devices are known to drain the battery faster than normal.
When you purchase a Bluetooth tracker, also consider whether it encrypts the location information. Some companies don't, so you could be vulnerable if your data is exposed in the event of a hack. Luckily, most manufacturers do encrypt this data. However, it is important to look over the fine print on the product's page to be certain. This information could allow a criminal to gain access to your home or car.