Not many locksmiths will tell you how to manage your car key in order to avoid lockout situations and save yourself from the hassle of losing them. However, this article will guide you through easy tips to save money on automotive locksmiths and to ensure proper steps in case you are locked out of your car.
Table of Contents
Keep a copy of your key handy
No matter how alert and vigilant you are, you are never truly immune from the possibility of losing your car keys. When you do, it will cost you a lot of money and leave you stranded in the middle of nowhere until help arrives. To avoid that situation, you should always keep an extra key handy or leave a spare somewhere you can access easily in case you lose the original key.
However, if you have transponder keys, then you would have to call in an expert who can reprogram the built-in access and help you unlock your car. It is an expensive procedure that requires an expert locksmith or your car dealership’s assistance.
If you have a laser cut key, then only a locksmith will be able to help you. They have the right tools and expertise to develop laser cut keys.
It doesn’t matter if you have transponder keys or old fashioned mechanical keys, it is always a good idea to keep a spare key with you. It may not start the ignition but will ensure that you are never locked out of your car.
Replace worn out keys
When you notice that your keys stick to the ignition when you turn it in the slot, it usually indicates that it has worn out. A close look will reveal that the smooth cuts on your key are starting to look weary. When they are completely, worn out, they will stop opening locks and leave you outside your car more often than you like. If you need a Need a Car Key in OKC, you must call a locksmith and get one freshly made for your ignition.
Keep the metal tag safe that came with your keys
This tag contains important information for your locksmiths. It holds the code that tells them the cuts of the key. This way, your locksmith will be able to make you a spare or a duplicate key without the need to pull out the locks.
Get two key copies when buying a car
By doing this, you can always have an extra key handy that will prevent pesky lockout situations. Some vehicles have a maximum number of key copies that can be programmed to the car. If that number is exceeded, the car’s computer would have to be tackled by your dealership that can cost you tons of money. To avoid that situation, ask your dealership to give you duplicate keys for safekeeping.
Keep only few keys on your ring
Many people have a habit of keeping all their keys in one ring. However, your ignition keys may have wafers that will get worn out quickly if they rubbed against one another too often. Once worn, they will either not turn or will stick your keys to the ignition that often causes them to break in ignition.
Get your locks rekeyed
If your car keys are stolen, then you can consider calling a locksmith that can rekey your locks. This way, your original car key becomes unusable in old locks and cannot be used to run your vehicle. It is also possible to remove the old remotes from the car system, making it impossible for the key-holder to unlock the car.
Auto locksmiths can be very helpful in these testing times when their expertise comes in handy and you are able to get back into your car with minimal damage. However, these tips will keep you prepared for a lockout situation, should it occur.
If you still need a locksmith to help you out, make sure you search them out carefully and only hire the ones that have the experience, license, insurance, and the expertise to handle your vehicle.