We have all been there: you are in a rush to get to work or a hockey game, and your car keys simply won’t work. Modern car keys are more like small computers than pieces of metal, which means they can fail in many different ways. Our team at Security Solutions provides expert automotive locksmith services throughout the region. We believe that understanding why your key is acting up can help you stay calm and find a solution faster. Whether you are in a parking lot or your own driveway, we are here to help you get back on the road.
Car key problems usually fall into two categories: mechanical or electronic. Sometimes the metal blade is worn down, and other times the computer chip inside the fob has lost its memory. We see these issues every day in Calgary. Instead of paying for an expensive tow to a dealership, you can call us to come to your location. We bring the tools to fix or replace your keys right on the spot.
The Frustration of a Dead Key Fob Battery
The most common problem we see is a dead battery in the remote. If your “push-to-start” button isn’t working or your doors won’t unlock when you press the button, the battery is likely the culprit. Most fobs use small “button” batteries that last about two to three years. We suggest changing your battery as soon as you notice the range of your remote getting shorter. If you wait too long, you might find yourself locked out in the cold.
Furthermore, many people don’t know that their key fob usually has a “hidden” metal key inside it. If your battery dies, you can use this physical key to unlock the door manually. Once you are inside, most cars have a specific spot where you can hold the dead fob to start the engine. We show our clients in Airdrie how to find these emergency features. If you are still stuck, you can always Contact Us for a quick battery replacement or a new fob.
Broken and Worn Down Key Blades
If you still use a traditional metal key to start your car, it will eventually wear out. Every time you slide the key into the ignition, a tiny bit of metal rubs off. Over time, the “teeth” on the key become rounded and won’t move the pins inside the lock correctly. You might find that you have to “jiggle” the key to get it to turn. We believe that jiggling your key is a warning sign that it is about to fail completely.
We suggest getting a copy made before the key stops working. If the key is already too worn, we can “decode” your lock and cut a brand-new key that looks like it just came from the factory. We do this for drivers in Chestermere all the time. Using a fresh key prevents damage to your ignition switch, which is a much more expensive repair. We treat your vehicle with care and ensure the new key turns perfectly.
Transponder Chip Failures and Programming Issues
Since the late 1990s, most cars have used “transponder” keys. These keys have a tiny chip hidden in the plastic head. When you put the key in the ignition, the car’s computer asks the chip for a secret code. If the chip doesn’t answer or gives the wrong code, the car won’t start. This is a great anti-theft feature, but it can be a headache if the chip gets damaged. Dropping your keys on a hard floor or getting them wet can sometimes “scramble” the chip’s memory.
We carry specialized computers that can “talk” to your car and reprogram new chips. We can do this for almost every make and model on the road today. If your car turns over but won’t stay running, or if a “security” light is flashing on your dashboard, you likely have a transponder problem. We provide these services at your location in Cochrane so you don’t have to wait for a dealership appointment. Our goal is to get your electronics back in sync.
Ignitions That Won’t Turn or Are Stuck
Sometimes the problem isn’t the key at all; it’s the ignition cylinder itself. Dust, lint, and grit can get stuck inside the lock, or a small internal part can break. We often see this in older trucks and vans that are used for work. If your key goes in but won’t turn, do not force it! You might snap the key off inside the lock. Instead, try turning the steering wheel back and forth to release the “steering lock” pressure.
If the ignition is truly jammed, we can often repair it without replacing the whole unit. We can take the cylinder apart, clean it, and replace the worn-out pins. This saves you from having to have a different key for your doors and your ignition. We provide this expert service for drivers in Okotoks and the surrounding areas. We believe in fixing things right the first time.
Why a Mobile Locksmith is Better Than a Dealership
Many people think the dealership is the only place to get a new car key, but that is rarely the case. Dealerships often require you to tow your car to them, and they might make you wait days for a new key to arrive. Our team at Security Solutions comes to you. We can cut and program keys for most vehicles right in your driveway or at your workplace. This saves you the cost of a tow and a lot of wasted time.
We serve a wide area, including Canmore, and we offer fair, upfront pricing. We use the same high-quality blanks and programming tools as the factory. When you call us, you are talking to a local expert who cares about getting you back to your day. We take pride in solving even the most difficult car key puzzles.
FAQ
Can you make a key if I have lost all my copies?
Yes! We can use your vehicle’s VIN or take apart a lock to find the correct “code” for your car. We then cut a new key from scratch and program it to your car’s computer. You do not need the original key to get a new one.
Do you provide 24/7 emergency service?
We understand that car key problems don’t always happen during business hours. We offer emergency services to help you when you are stranded. Just give us a call, and we will let you know our current arrival time.
How long does it take to program a new key?
For most cars, the process takes about 20 to 45 minutes. This includes cutting the metal blade and connecting our computer to your car to sync the new transponder chip. Some luxury European cars might take a bit longer.
Will my new key look like the original?
In most cases, yes. We carry a wide variety of “OEM” and high-quality aftermarket fobs that look and function exactly like the ones that came with your car. We ensure the buttons work and the range is excellent.
Can you fix a key that was washed in the laundry?
Sometimes! We can open the fob, clean the circuit board with special chemicals, and replace the battery. However, if the water caused a short circuit, you might need a brand-new remote. We can test it for you and let you know.
Why is my “smart key” not being detected?
This is often a battery issue, but it can also be caused by electronic interference from other devices like your phone or a nearby radio tower. Try holding the key directly against the start button. If that doesn’t work, give us a call.