If you’re having problems with your ignition switch, make your local locksmith your first call! Whether your key has broken off in the ignition lock cylinder, you’re having problems starting your car, or you’re worried about lost keys, our team here at Red Key LLC has the solution.
Here are a few common questions we get from our clients here in the Buffalo NY area about ignition switch repair and rekeying!
What is the benefit of calling a locksmith over your dealership or a mechanic?
First of all, you might be wondering why to call a locksmith like Red Key LLC over other car specialists. Here are a few reasons why our clients tend to reach out to us, first:
- We’re typically the more affordable option. Many car owners are surprised to learn how much they can save on ignition repair by calling a locksmith rather than their car dealership or mechanic.
- We offer mobile services. Another huge advantage of relying on a locksmith for ignition problems is that we’ll come to you. That way, you can save money on having to tow your car to a second location.
- We are available 24/7. Unlike a car dealership or mechanic with set business hours, we offer locksmith services 24 hours a day, including weekends and holidays. We can also work with you to find a convenient time for us to come to you for your ignition repair so that you don’t have to bend over backwards to fit someone else’s schedule.
How does a locksmith fix an ignition?
When a car owner calls us for ignition repair, we have a few steps that we follow in order to diagnose and fix the problem:
- Inspection of the key. In many cases, what looks like a problem with your car’s ignition is actually an issue with the key or key fob. So, we’ll take a look for signs of damage or circuitry issues.
- Inspection and testing of the ignition lock cylinder and other components. If we haven’t found a problem with the key, our next step will be to get to the root of the problem in your ignition switch by dismantling the steering column. From there, we’ll take a look at and test the components that make up your ignition system and starter motor. We may find frayed wires or broken circuits that are preventing normal function.
- Replacement of faulty parts. If we see something off about your ignition switch, we’ll be able to replace the affected components to fix the problem. This step may include replacing the ignition switch entirely and reprogramming a new set of keys.
- Reconnecting the electrical system and testing. The last step will be to reconnect your ignition system and make sure that everything is working as it should!
What can a locksmith do if I lost my keys?
Maybe you’re not dealing with a faulty ignition but rather need to restore your sense of security after your keys have been lost or stolen. In this case, we can rekey your locks and ignition lock cylinder to render the old set unusable and program a new key.
For this process, we’ll need to:
- Order a new set of blank keys. We always recommend that car owners count on us to order blank keys instead of trying to order them before contacting us. That’s because it can be easy to order the wrong kind of key, thus delaying the process! And in some cases, we might already have a blank key in our inventory.
- Cut the new keys. Modern keys require the use of a specialized key cutting machine for high security key blades. We’ll cut the new key to be able to function with your car’s new keyway.
- Program the new keys to your car’s operating system. When you enter a key into the ignition of any modern car, it’s not just about the key blade being able to turn in the lock cylinder. The key will also need to be programmed to be recognized by the car’s operating system, a process which requires a key programming machine and the necessary software for your car’s make and model.
What should I do if I broke my key in the ignition lock cylinder?
If you’ve snapped your key in the door lock or ignition lock cylinder, sit tight and wait for us to show up! Attempting to remove the broken key can further damage the lock cylinder and require a more costly replacement process.
Our team will show up on site with the tools and expertise necessary to safely remove the key fragment without damaging the cylinder. From there, we can cut and program a new key so that you can get back on the road as soon as possible!
Can a locksmith cut extra keys during the ignition switch rekeying process?
Yes! If you want an extra set of keys for your car, we can duplicate your new set. In fact, this is a service we often recommend for car owners in order to cut down on the risk of future lockouts!
Some car manufacturers limit the amount of spares keys that can be programmed to a single car, so ask us for more information about what’s possible for your car’s operating system.
Will a locksmith come in an emergency?
If you are having ignition problems that need to be resolved immediately, Red Key LLC will prioritize your call! We can send a mobile auto locksmith to wherever you are in Hamburg, Buffalo, Amherst, East Aurora, Grand Island, or elsewhere in the area to fix the problem urgently.
What other services does an auto locksmith provide?
Having other issues with your car’s keys or security? Red Key LLC can also help auto lockouts, problems with your key fobs, faulty truck locks and much more! Call us to learn more about our wide range of auto locksmith services.
