What to Do When Your Car Keys Are Damaged
It's not common to lose or damage car keys. In many cases, these issues are handled by a locksmith for cars.
Adjusting buttons can help restore functionality to key fobs that have been jostled. If replacing the battery doesn't help, the fob may require replacement entirely.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
Although it might seem that the days of jingling keys are over, a lot of automobiles still have key fobs. Fobs are handy, however they can be problematic in the event that batteries go out. It's important to ensure they are charged throughout the day. 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 ways to get out of this situation. Depending on the make and model, there is often a mechanical key inside the fob that you can use to unlock the door. Some models also have a backup button that can be used to start the engine. This is an emergency and is usually only used to help you get from point A to point B, however it may work in some cases.
If you're unable to start the car using this method, the best thing is to raise the front of your car off of the ground with the help of jumper cables. Then, connect the red cable up to the large terminal on the starter and the black cable on to the ground nearby. This will give your fob battery enough power to start your car or at the very least bring you home or to an auto mechanic.
You can also take the key fob into an Interstate All Battery Center to get an entirely new battery. You'll need an incredibly small screwdriver with a flat head or butter knife, or any other pry tool to access the inside of the fob, and then remove it to replace the battery. Be careful not to apply too much pressure on the case, or it could pop open and scatter fob components all over your living space.
After opening the case, use your pry tool to wedge around the fasteners like you would a slice of apple or an orange, and then begin to separate the two halves. Be careful not to pull the circuit boards or antennas that contain the electricity that keeps the key fob plugged in to your car. If you damage these devices, you'll need to visit your dealership or an auto repair shop to have it reset.
Keys locked in the Trunk
It's easy to lock your keys in your trunk when you're distracted or in a rush. Fortunately, many people keep spare car keys somewhere inside their wallets or at home which is why this isn't usually an issue. In this case you should contact an emergency locksmith or roadside assistance service to come and get your keys. They will be able to open the trunk without damaging your vehicle and may be able to fix any broken locks which caused the problem.
You can also contact the dealership to request them to create a key for your. It is best to keep a spare key in your wallet or at home, so that you can use it if your keys are locked inside the trunk.
If you do not have an extra one, you are able to open the trunk if you override the locking mechanism. This involves cutting off a fuse which powers the trunk release. This can be a complicated process and requires you to adhere to safety guidelines. You can find instructions for your specific vehicle by referring to the owner's manual. This method is not recommended if do not have much automotive experience.
In the event that standard locksmith techniques aren't successful, you can try to use household items such as screwscrews and rods of steel. A spatula, or any other kitchen tools can be used to force the trunk open or create space. Unfortunately, some cars have advanced security features that prevent these methods from working, so a specialist will likely be required to open your trunk. These specialists can also perform a keying or jiggle to bypass the locking system, or they may have to make a hole in the trunk door and lock actuator in order to bypass the locking mechanism. These methods can be costly, so it's a good idea to keep an emergency key in your possession or ask your dealer to request a rekeying service. This will hopefully aid you in avoiding any future problems.
Damaged Ignition
The process of turning on the ignition in your car could seem like a straightforward task, but it actually involves numerous steps and a number of components that must cooperate for the vehicle to start. If a component fails or if even one step is not properly executed it could result in loss of the power or control you drive. You can avoid more serious issues by recognizing the indications of ignition problems.
A mobile mechanic will check the ignition system for damage if it's becoming harder to turn. Utilizing automotive lock picks they can often take off the ignition cylinder to remove it from any slight destruction that could be causing the issue. They can also address this issue by programming the key or the ignition itself immediately and ensure that you can drive away without fear, with your vehicle's full functionality fully functional.
Another sign that you might need to repair your ignition is when your vehicle starts to stop while you're driving. If your engine is shut off while you're driving it could be dangerous to other drivers and put you at risk of accidents on the road. Worn ignition switches, ignition cylinders, and other components can cause these kinds of issues So fixing them soon is essential.
Sometimes, you could have more trouble than just a jammed ignition switch and require an entire replacement instead. In such cases an auto mechanic will typically be capable of performing an ignition replacement on the on the spot. They'll be able to do this by disassembling the steering column, and then removing the old ignition assembly before installing the new one to make it easier to insert the key and start operating your vehicle. This type of replacement can save your time and money compared to buying a brand new car and will be a lot quicker than waiting for an automotive shop to open up at a convenient time for you.
Damaged Locks
There are many common reasons why your car locks may be damaged. Some of these issues can be resolved with simple swapping of the battery for the key fob, while others require a more meticulous repair to fix the mechanical components or electronic locking system.
Weather Damage
Extreme temperatures, exposure to sunlight and dust are all major problems for lock systems. These environmental conditions can cause corrosion, discoloration, and wear over time. This could lead to the lock becoming not functional anymore. Routine inspections are necessary to stop this from happening.
If car key repairs near me having difficulty turning or inserting the key in your door lock, it could be a sign the mechanism is jammed. This is likely due to grime or dirt accumulation. You can resolve this issue by using a moist cotton swab or qi-tip and spraying a graphite or silicone spray on the lock.
Another reason that your door locks might be stuck is because the pins in the cylinder aren't aligned. The problem can be corrected by taking the lock off and then manually aligning the cylinder with the keyhole on the door. After the cylinder has been repositioned, it should be secured with the appropriate screws.
The final issue is that the actual key is damaged in some way. This could be due to excessive force when turning the key, or if the key was cut incorrectly. If you suspect that this is the issue then try a different key and see if there are no issues. The best way to repair any issues is to speak with a professional locksmith. They will conduct a thorough diagnostic to identify the root of the issue and employ special tools to eliminate any debris or misalignment off the lock mechanism. They will then replace the broken parts with new ones to restore full function. A locksmith can also provide suggestions for how to protect your lock from further damage. This could include weather-resistant covers or shields that help protect the lock from harsh elements.