The humble car key is one of those things that many people do not realize the value of – until it is broken, lost, or locked inside the car. While nobody expects to find themselves in such a situation, it tends to happen more often than you think. It’s critical for you to understand the basics of how to get a car key repaired or replaced and what to do if you ever find yourself in one of the situations mentioned here.

#1. What to Do If Your Car Key Breaks and Gets Stuck in the Lock or Ignition

First and foremost, do not try to remove the broken piece of the key by yourself. If the broken piece is stuck deep inside the lock or ignition, you might end up damaging the locking mechanism or the ignition cylinder. It is something that should only be done by a skilled automotive locksmith.

Similarly, do not throw the other half of the key away. If you keep the other half, the locksmith can simply extract the broken piece, put the pieces of the original key together, and make a replacement key. If you do not have the other half, they might need to have new car keys cut (replacement car keys) using the key code, which can cost you more.

#2. What to Do If You Get Locked Out of Your Car

If your child or pet is stuck inside the car, you should not waste any time and call 911 immediately. Otherwise, you should call a local locksmith who offers emergency services in your area.

You might be tempted to try to unlock your car using a clothes hanger or a wire. However, it is not advisable, as it can not only damage your car’s locking mechanism, but you could also end up injuring yourself. It is better to call a locksmith, who will be able to unlock your car swiftly without damaging any of its components.

#3. What to Do If a Chipped or Transponder Key Is Not Functioning

Transponder keys contain what is called a radio frequency identification chip, which provides added security for your car. If the original car key is damaged or not working, an experienced locksmith can make a replacement car key and code the chip so that your car will recognize the new key. Generally, you should have a spare transponder key with you so that even if the original key is damaged or lost, you are not left stranded.

Similarly, if you have a smart key or a remote key fob that is not functioning, a locksmith can simply reprogram it in order to get it to function properly. If it is not possible, the locksmith can replace the car key fob altogether. It should be noted that not all locksmiths have the expertise or tools to reprogram or replace key fobs. Make sure you choose a locksmith who specializes in repairing and replacing both traditional keys as well as smart keys.

#4. Information a Locksmith Might Need to Unlock Your Car or Replace Your Car Key

• Your car’s vehicle identification number or VIN number
• Your driver’s license
• Your vehicle’s registration
• The key code

And other details, depending on the type of car you have, model and year, and the kind of locking mechanism your specific vehicle has.

Need to Repair Your Car Keys or Have a New Car Key Made? 3 Guys Locksmith Is the Right Choice for You

At 3 Guys Locksmith, we have a team of highly skilled automotive locksmiths who can repair, reprogram, and replace all kinds of car keys – from mechanical keys to smart keys. All of our locksmiths are licensed and bonded and have years of experience in car key replacement and repair.

We also offer emergency automotive locksmith services on a 24/7 basis and can help you if you get locked out of your car or stranded because due to lost car keys. Call 3 Guys Locksmith today at 305-907-7707 or get in touch with us online for all your car key repair and replacement needs.