Brown & Watson International NZ Ltd
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MAP Is The Key To Worn Or Damaged Car Keys

Worn or Damaged Car Keys? Remember when replacing a damaged or bent car key was a simple case of having a new key cut?


The advent of key fobs that now include electronic parts and buttons to remotely open and lock doors on the vehicle has added a complicating factor, but there’s no need to fret if your key needs repairing.


That’s because replacement parts for worn or damaged items on electronic car keys are to become more widely available to motorists in New Zealand than has previously been the case.


Leading New Zealand automotive accessory distributor, Griffiths Equipment, has teamed up with Mechatronics Auto Parts (MAP) to provide a comprehensive nationwide supply of parts.


Tim Paterson, the National Sales Manager of Griffiths Equipment, says the full range of MAP vehicle key components is now available in New Zealand.


Available through leading automotive outlets nationwide, as well as some vehicle repair/service workshops, MAP’s extensive range of complete keys, key fobs, key rubbers and remotes will cover an increased range of popular vehicle models sold in this market, including BMW, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, Holden, Honda, Hyundai, Isuzu, Jeep, Kia, Mazda, Mercedes, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Subaru, Suzuki and Toyota.


“Anyone who has suffered damage to modern-style vehicle keys or have buttons that don’t work, will know how frustrating it can be trying to get it fixed or replaced,” says Tim Paterson, National Sales Manager of Griffiths Equipment.


“We’re in discussions with automotive retailers to ensure there is a greater range of replacement parts available for motorists to be able to fix their keys.”


Additionally, Mr Paterson says there is an opportunity for more workshops to offer a repair service to vehicle owners.


“Workshops and service departments who notice a key with worn buttons or other damage can suggest to customers that they can get the key fixed on their behalf – some workshops already do this and we think there is an opportunity for more to come on board,” he adds.


Victoria-based IM Group, which owns the MAP brand, introduced the key repair service in Australia in 2012.


The most popular items include remote rubber buttons and shells that often become damaged and don’t stand up to the pressure of everyday wear and tear. Damaged buttons and broken cases allow dirt or water into the key fob or remote itself, which can cause irreparable damage. And in many cases, these buttons / key fobs cannot be obtained as a spare part, or if they can, they are usually very costly.


Repair is often just a case of opening up the key shell, removing the worn part and inserting a new component in its place.


For those who require guidance, the www.maparts.com.au website offers instructional videos for the replacement process, which can be accessed directly from a smartphone using the QR Code supplied on the packaging.


All products are tested and approved by the IM Group’s research and development team and are quality assured to international ISO9001 standards.