What to Do When Your Car Keys Are Damaged
Car keys get lots of use, and it's not uncommon for them to become damaged or even lost. In most cases, these issues are handled by a locksmith for cars.
Adjusting buttons can restore function to fobs with keys that have been tossed around. If replacing the battery does not aid, the fob could require replacement completely.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
Although it might seem that the days of jingling keys are long gone, many automobiles still have key fobs. The fobs can be useful however when their batteries fail they could become a problem. It's important to ensure they are charged throughout the day. Unfortunately, this can be difficult, and the battery of your key fob that is dead can leave you in the middle of nowhere.
The good news is that there are ways to escape this situation. Depending on your model and make there's usually an electronic key on the fob that you can use to unlock the door. Some models have an alternative key that can be used to start the car. This works as an option in the event of a breakdown and is usually only used to get you from point A to point B, however it may be used in certain instances.
If you are unable to start your car with this method, then the best option is to raise the front of your car off the ground using set jumper cables. Connect the red cable to the large terminal of the starter and the black cable to any nearby ground. This will provide the fob battery with enough juice to start your car, at least to bring you home or to the mechanic.
You can also bring the key fob to an Interstate All Battery Center to get the new battery. You'll need to have a small flathead screwdriver or butter knife, or any other pry tool to get access to the inside of the fob and open it to change the battery. Do not apply too much pressure to the case or it will pop open and scatter bits of the fob throughout your living space.
After you have opened the case, wedge your pry tool around the fasteners, like you peel an orange or apple, and begin to separate the halves. Do not pull on the circuit boards or antennas, which contain the electrical current that keeps your key fob in the program. You'll need to take it to your dealer or repair shop for your vehicle when you cause damage to the antennas or circuit boards.
Keys locked in the trunk
Sometimes, it's simple to lock your keys in your trunk, particularly if you're in a hurry or distracted. Many people keep spare car keys in their purses or inside their homes and wallets, so this shouldn't be a problem. In this case you should contact a locksmith or a roadside assistance service to come and get your keys. They will be able to unlock the trunk without damaging your vehicle, and they may even be able to fix any damaged locks that caused this incident.
Based on your circumstances You can also have someone else bring you a spare key or call the dealership to request a new key for you. It is best to keep a spare key in your wallet or at home so that you can utilize it if your keys are locked inside the trunk.
If you don't have a spare key, then you may attempt to unlock the trunk by overriding the locking mechanism. This involves cutting off a fuse which powers the trunk release. It is essential to adhere to safety guidelines since this procedure can be complicated. You can find guidelines for your specific vehicle by going to the owner's manual. This method is not recommended for people who do not have a lot of automotive experience.
If the standard locksmith techniques aren't successful You can use household items such as a screwdriver or a metal rod. A spatula, or any other kitchen tools can be used to open the trunk open or create space. Unfortunately, some cars have advanced security features that prevent these methods from working, which is why experts will likely be required to unlock your trunk. These specialists can also perform a jiggle or rekeying procedure to bypass the locking system, or they might have to drill the trunk lock actuator and create a hole in the door. These techniques are expensive, so you should keep an emergency key in your possession or contact your dealer for a reconkeying. It is ideal that this helps you avoid any issues in the future.
Damaged Ignition
It may seem simple to turn the key however there are a lot of parts and steps that need to be in sync to get the car going. If a component fails, or if a single step is not performed correctly you could lose the power or control you drive. You can avoid more serious problems by recognizing indications of ignition problems.
If your ignition is starting to get harder and harder to turn It's an ideal idea to have a mobile mechanic check the system for damage. They can take out the ignition cylinder using automotive lock picks to repair any damage that may have caused the problem. key car repair can be solved by reprogramming the ignition or the key on the spot. This allows you to drive away with the full functionality of your vehicle intact.
If your car stops while you are driving, this could be a sign you require an ignition repair. If your engine stops while you're in motion it could pose a risk to other drivers and expose you to accidents on the road. Worn ignition switches, ignition cylinders and other components can cause these kinds of issues, so getting them fixed quickly is vital.
You may need to replace the entire ignition switch in the event that you have more than one jammed switch. In these instances an auto mechanic will typically be capable of performing an ignition replacement on the spot. They can do this by disassembling the steering column and removing the old ignition assembly, then installing the new one, making it easier to insert the key and operate your vehicle. This will save you money and time over buying a new vehicle. It is also much quicker than waiting for a store to open at a convenient time.
Damaged Locks
There are a few common reasons that your car locks may be damaged. Some of these issues can be solved by replacing the battery for the key fob and others require a more meticulous repair to fix the mechanical components or electronic locking system.
Weather Damage
Extreme temperatures, sun exposure and even dust can pose a major issue for locking systems. These environmental conditions can lead to corrosion, discoloration, and wear over time. This can lead to a lock that is not functional anymore. Regular inspections are essential to prevent this.
If you're having difficulty inserting or turning the key in the lock on your door, this could indicate that the mechanism is jammed. This is likely due to dirt or grime accumulation. You can solve this issue by using a moist cotton swab or q-tip and spraying a graphite spray or silicone spray on the lock.
Another reason your door locks may be stuck is because the pins in the cylinder are misaligned. This can usually be fixed by removing the lock cylinder and then manually aligning it with the keyhole of the door. After the cylinder has been repositioned and secured with the correct screws.
The key itself can be damaged in a way. This could be due to excessive force when turning the key, or if the key was cut incorrectly. If you suspect this is the cause, use a spare key and verify that there are no issues. The best method to fix any issue is to contact a professional locksmith. These experts will perform an extensive examination to identify the root of the issue. They will then employ special tools to take out any debris that may be in the lock mechanism. They will then replace the broken parts with new ones to restore full function. A locksmith can also give suggestions to safeguard your car lock from further damage. This could include weather-resistant covers or shields which can help protect the lock from the harsh elements of the environment.