When it comes to your car’s functionality, its keys play an important role. Car key problems can be overwhelming and stressful, especially if they leave you stranded or locked out. The car keys grant you access and let you operate it safely.
However, just as any other mechanical device, the keys of your vehicle can break or wear down. This can lead to possible inconveniences. In situations like these, it becomes important to ensure you can still access your vehicle.
In this article, we will discuss the signs that show you need to search for a car locksmith near me for a car key replacement instead of repair.
1. Damaged or Worn-Out Key Blade
One of the most clear signs that you have to look for a car key replacement near me is damaged or worn-out car keys. The metal portion of the key that is inserted in the door locks or ignition is the key blade. It goes through regular wear and tear. With time, the constant pressure and friction can cause the grooves and ridges on the key blade to become distorted or smooth. Thus, it becomes difficult to turn the key or engage the lock mechanism properly.
If the key blade is bent, worn out, or damaged, it is a sign that you need a car key replacement. Avoid using the damaged key blade as it can damage the lock cylinders of your vehicle. This, in turn, can lead to more expensive repairs. What’s worse is that it can make the lock inoperable.
2. Broken Key Inside the Car Engine or Door
Getting the car key stuck in the engine or door is exasperating. It is usually caused by damaged or old keys. Using excessive force while turning keys can break them. Regardless of how it happened, you require a quick solution. You can solve this problem with the help of a Gastonia locksmith service. They can take out the broken key piece without causing any damage to the locking system. It saves you expensive repairs and added frustration later on. Key fob replacement Gastonia NC, requires special expertise and equipment. If you try to remove it yourself, you can push the broken key deeper into the mechanism. Locksmith services have specialized equipment created for special key extraction and replacement.
3. Jammed or Stuck Keys
Another sign that you require key replacement is if they become jammed or stuck frequently in the door locks or ignition. There can be multiple reasons behind this problem, such as debris or dirt buildup, or corrosion inside the lock cylinders. It can be caused by misalignment between the lock and key, too.
Trying to remove the jammed or stuck key forcefully can damage both the lock cylinder and the key. This can make the entire lock unusable. In such cases, it is important to seek professional help. J & A Locksmith has the expertise and tools to extract the stuck keys and make new keys for you.
4. Problem Starting the Car
In case you are grappling to start your car, even after you have inserted the key multiple times and turned it, it can be a sign that the keys have to be replaced. With time, the internal components of the ignition system can become damaged or at least worn out. This can lead to improper connection or misalignment between the ignition key and the cylinder. In certain cases, the problem can be caused by a problematic ignition switch or other issues. However, it is important to have a car locksmith inspect the ignition and key to identify the root cause of the problem and get the key replaced. Trying to force the ignition or key can lead to more damage and possibly leave you stranded.