What to Do When Your Car Keys Are Damaged
Car keys are subject to a lot of use, and it's not uncommon for them to get damaged or lost. In many cases these instances, they are handled by a locksmith for cars.
Adjusting buttons can help bring back functionality to key fobs that have been jostled. If replacing the battery does not help, the fob may require replacement completely.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
Although it might seem that keys that jingle are long gone, many cars still use key fobs. These fobs are useful however if their batteries die they could become a problem. It's important to keep them fully charged at all times. Unfortunately this can be a challenge and the battery of your key fob that is dead can leave you stranded in the middle of nowhere.
There are options to avoid this situation. Depending on your model and make, there is often a mechanical key inside the fob that you can use to open the door. Some models have an alternative key that can be used to start the vehicle. This is a last resort and generally only intended to bring you to your destination, but can work in certain cases.
If you're not able to get your car started using this method, then the best option is to raise the front of your vehicle off the ground with set jumper cables. Connect the red cable to a large terminal of the starter, and the black cable to any nearby ground. This will give your fob battery enough power to start your vehicle, or at least get you home or an auto mechanic.
Another alternative is to take the fob's key to an Interstate All Battery Center location to purchase a replacement battery. To change the battery, you'll need a small flathead screwscrewdriver, butter knivescrew or other pry tools. Don't apply too much force to the case, or it will break and scatter pieces of the fob all over your living space.
After opening the case, use your pry tool to wedge around the fasteners like you would an orange or an apple and begin to separate the two halves. Do not pull on the antennas or circuit boards that contain the electrical current that keeps your key fob programmed. You will need to take it to a dealer or repair shop for your vehicle if you disturb the circuit boards or antennas.
Keys Locked in the Trunk
Sometimes, it's easy to lock your keys inside your trunk, particularly if you're in a hurry or distracted. Fortunately, many people keep spare keys for their cars inside their wallets or at home and wallets, so this shouldn't be an issue. In this case you should contact an emergency locksmith or roadside assistance service to come and help you retrieve your keys. remote key fob repair will be able to unlock the trunk without damaging your car and could be able to fix any damaged locks that contributed to this incident.
Depending on the situation, you can also have someone else bring you your spare key or call the dealership to have them create a new key for you. It is advisable to keep a spare in your wallet or at home to utilize it if your keys are locked in the trunk.
If you do not have an extra, you can still open the trunk if you override the locking mechanism. This involves the shorting of a fuse that controls the trunk release. It's important to adhere to safety guidelines as this process isn't easy. You can find instructions for your specific vehicle by referring to the owner's manual. This method is not recommended for those who don't have extensive car experience.
If conventional locksmith techniques don't work, you can try to employ household items like a screwdriver or a metal rod. A spatula or other kitchen tool 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 a specialist will likely be required to open your trunk. The experts can also execute a keying or jiggle to bypass locking system or make a hole in the door and the trunk lock actuator to bypass the locking mechanism. These methods are costly and you should have an emergency key on hand or call your dealer to arrange the possibility of reconkeying. In the ideal scenario, this will help you avoid any problems 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 running. If one part is damaged, or a single step doesn't happen correctly, it can cause you to lose control or power while driving on the road. Being aware of the signs that indicate your ignition is not working properly can help you avoid bigger issues, and find the correct solutions.
If your ignition is beginning to become harder and harder to turn It's recommended to have a mobile mechanic check the system for damage. They can take off the cylinder of ignition by using automotive lock picks in order to fix any damage that might be causing the issue. They can also fix this issue by programming the key or the ignition immediately and ensuring that you can drive away without fear, with your vehicle's full functionality intact.
Another indication that you may need an ignition repair is when your car begins slowing down while you're driving. If your engine shuts off while you're driving it could be dangerous to other drivers and put you at risk for accidents on the road. These problems are often caused by damaged ignition switches, ignition coils, and other components.
You may have to replace the entire ignition switch if there is more than a blocked switch. In such cases the mechanic who is mobile will usually be able to perform an ignition replacement on the spot. The mobile mechanic will be able do this by disassembling your steering column, taking out the old part and putting in the new one. This will make it easier for you to insert the key into the ignition and operate your vehicle. This can help you save money and time when you are considering buying a new vehicle. It is also much faster than waiting for a shop to open at a convenient hour.
Damaged Locks
There are many common reasons why your car's lock could be damaged. Certain of these issues can be resolved 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 be a significant issue for lock systems. These environmental conditions can lead to discoloration, corrosion and wear over time. This can eventually cause the lock to become functionally ineffective. In order to prevent this from happening, routine inspections should be performed so any issues can be addressed before they worsen.
If you're having difficulty turning or inserting the key in your door lock, this could be a sign that the mechanism is jammed. This could be due to dirt or grime accumulation. You can resolve this problem by using a damp cotton swab or qi-tip and spraying a graphite spray or silicone spray on the lock.
The pins inside the cylinder might be misaligned. The issue can be fixed by taking the lock off and manually aligning the cylinder with the keyhole on the door. Once the cylinder has been moved, screws must be used to secure it.
The key itself may be damaged in a way. This can be caused by excessive force when turning the key or the key was cut incorrectly. If you suspect this is the problem then try a different key and see if there aren't any issues. The best method to fix any issue is to speak with an expert locksmith. They will conduct an exhaustive examination to determine the root cause of the issue. They will then use specialized tools and remove any debris from the lock mechanism. They will then replace the damaged parts with new ones to restore full function. A locksmith will also provide recommendations to protect your car lock from future damage. This can include weatherproof covers or shields that can protect your lock from the harsh elements.