What to Do When Your Car Keys Are Damaged
It's not uncommon to lose or damage keys to your car. Auto locksmiths are able to resolve these problems.
Adjusting buttons can help restore function to fobs with keys that have been jostled. If the replacement battery does not work, you could need to replace the fob.
Dead Key Fob Battery
Even though it appears that keys that jingle are over, a lot of cars still use key fobs. They can be very useful, but when their batteries fail they could cause problems. It is essential to keep them fully charged throughout the day. This can be a challenging task, and a dead battery on your key fob could cause you to be stranded.
The good news is that there are ways to escape this situation. Depending on the make and model it is likely to have a mechanical key inside the fob that you can use to unlock the door. Certain models also have a backup button that can be pressed to start the engine. This is a last resort that's usually only meant to help you get to your destination, but can be useful in certain circumstances.
If you're unable to get your car started using this method, then the next best option is to lift the front of your vehicle off the ground using a set of jumper cables. Connect the red cable to the large terminal of the starter, and the black cable to the ground nearby. This will give the fob battery enough power to start your car or get you to home or an auto mechanic.
You can also bring the key fob to an Interstate All Battery Center to get the new battery. You'll require a small flathead screwdriver or butter knife, or any other pry tool to access the inside of the fob and open it to change the battery. Be careful not to apply too much pressure on the case, or it may explode and scatter fob parts all over your living space.
Once you've opened the box Once you've opened the case, wrap your pry tool into the fasteners like you peel an apple or orange, and begin to separate the two halves. Be careful not to pull the antennas or circuit boards, which contain the electricity that keeps the key fob programmed to your car. If you damage these, you will have to visit your dealership or an auto repair shop to get it reset.
Keys Locked in the Trunk
Sometimes, it's easy to lock your keys in your trunk, especially when you're in a hurry or distracted. Many people keep spare car keys somewhere inside their wallets or at home, so this isn't always a problem. In this situation you can contact an emergency roadside assistance or a locksmith to retrieve your keys. They will be able to open the trunk without damaging your car and may even be able fix any damaged locks that contributed to this incident.
You can also contact the dealership and ask them to create a key for you. Of course, the best option is to keep a spare key in your wallet or at home, so you can keep it handy in the event that you put your keys in the trunk again.
If you don't have a spare key, then you may try opening the trunk by overriding the locking mechanism. This involves shorting a fuse that powers trunk release. car key repairs can be complex and requires you to adhere to the safety guidelines. You can find guidelines for your specific vehicle by referring to the owner's manual. This method is not recommended for those who don't have significant automotive experience.
If the traditional methods for locksmithing aren't working, you can employ household items such as a screwdriver or a rod made of steel. Kitchen tools such as a spatula can also be useful in creating space or prying the trunk open. Unfortunately, some vehicles are equipped with advanced security features that prevent these methods working. A professional is required to unlock your trunk. They can also carry out the jiggle or rekeying method to bypass the locking mechanism or to drill the trunk lock actuator and then create a hole through the door. These techniques are costly, so it's recommended to keep a spare key for emergencies or contact your dealership to request a rekeying service. This should assist you in avoiding future problems.
Damaged Ignition
It might appear easy to turn the ignition key however, there are many elements and steps that must cooperate to get the car running. If one component is damaged, or an individual step isn't completed correctly, it can result in you being without power or control when you're driving along the road. You can avoid more serious problems by recognizing signs of ignition issues.
If your ignition is beginning to become harder and harder to turn, it's recommended to get a mobile mechanic to check the system for damage. Using automotive lock picks, they are able to take off the ignition cylinder to remove it from any damage that could be causing the problem. The problem can be fixed by reprogramming the ignition or the key on the spot. This allows you to drive away with the full function of your vehicle.
Another sign that you may require an ignition repair is when your vehicle starts slowing down while you're driving. It can be dangerous for other drivers if your engine shuts down while you're driving. You could be at risk of having an accident. These issues can be caused by worn ignition switches, ignition coils, or other components.
Sometimes, you might have a little more trouble than just a jammed ignition switch and require a complete replacement instead. In these instances, a mobile mechanic can usually do an on-the spot car ignition replacement for you. The mechanic will be able do this by removing your steering column, taking out the old part and putting in the new one. This will make it easier for you to put the key in the ignition and start your vehicle. This will save you time and money in comparison to buying a brand new car. It's also quicker than waiting for a shop to open at a suitable time.
Damaged Locks
There are several common reasons that your car's locks may be damaged. Some of these problems are easily fixable by replacing the batteries on the key fob while others require more extensive repairs to fix mechanical components or the electronic locking system.
Weather Damage
Extreme temperatures, exposure to sunlight and dust can all be major issues for locks. These environmental conditions may cause discoloration, corrosion, and wear over time. This can lead to a lock that is not functional anymore. Routine inspections are required to stop this from happening.
If you're having trouble inserting or turning the key in your door lock, this could be a sign that the mechanism has jammed. This is likely due to grime or dirt accumulation. You can solve this issue by using a moist cotton swab or qi-tip and spraying a graphite or silicone spray on the lock.
The pins in the cylinder might be misaligned. The problem can be corrected by removing the lock and then manually aligning the cylinder with the keyhole on the door. Once the cylinder is aligned it must be secured with the appropriate screws.
The final issue is that the actual key is damaged in some way. This can be caused by excessive force applied in turning the key or when it was cut incorrectly. If you suspect this to be the case, try using an alternative key to see if it works with no problems. The best method to repair any damage is to speak with a professional locksmith. They will conduct a thorough diagnosis to determine the root of the issue. They will then employ specialized tools and take out any debris that may be in the lock mechanism. They will replace the damaged pieces with new parts to restore the functionality. A locksmith will also provide recommendations to protect your car lock from future damage. This can include weatherproof covers or shields that aid in protecting the lock from harsh elements in the environment.