What to Do When Your Car Keys Are Damaged
Car keys get lots of use and it's not uncommon for them to be damaged or even lost. In many cases these situations, the problem are handled by an auto locksmith.
Key fobs are often jostled around, so changing buttons can help them function properly again. If replacing the battery doesn't aid, the fob could require replacement entirely.
Dead Key Fob Battery
Even though it appears that the days of jingling keys are over, a lot of cars still use key fobs. They can be very useful, but should their batteries go out, they can become problematic. That's why they should be kept fully charged at all times. This is a daunting task and a dead battery on your key fob could leave you in a bind.
The good news is that there are solutions to escape this situation. Depending on the model and make of your vehicle there could be an electronic lock on the fob. Some models have an additional key that can be used to start the car. This works as an emergency and is usually only used to help you get from A to B, but it could be used in certain instances.
If you're unable to start your car using this method, the best option is to lift the front of your car off the ground with set jumper cables. Connect the red cable to the large terminal of the starter, and the black cable to any nearby ground. This will allow the fob battery to have enough power to start the vehicle, if not to get you home or to an auto mechanic.
Another option is to take the fob's key to an Interstate All Battery Center location to purchase a replacement battery. You'll require small flathead screwdrivers or butter knife or another pry tool to get access to the inside of the fob, and then open it to replace the battery. Be cautious not to apply too much pressure to the case, or it could pop open and scatter fob components throughout your living room.
After opening the case, use your pry tool to wrap around the fasteners like you would an apple or orange and begin separating the two halves. Be cautious not to pull on the circuit boards or antennas, which contain the electricity that keeps the key fob plugged in to your vehicle. You'll need to take it to your dealer or repair shop for your vehicle if you disturb the circuit boards or antennas.
Keys locked in the Trunk
It's easy to lock the keys in your trunk when you're distracted or in a rush. Many people keep spare keys in their wallets or at home. In this instance, you can call an emergency roadside assistance or a locksmith to get your keys. key repairs will be able to unlock the trunk without harming your vehicle and may be able to repair any broken locks that caused this incident.
Depending on the situation, you can also have someone else bring you a spare key or contact the dealership to request the new key for you. Of course, the best option is to keep an extra key in your wallet or at home to keep it handy in the event that you lock your keys inside the trunk again.
If you do not have an alternative trunk, you can still open the trunk by modifying the locking mechanism. This involves shorting an electrical fuse that powers the trunk release. This procedure can be complicated, and it's important to adhere to safety guidelines. Consult the owner's manual for directions on how to accomplish this. This method is not recommended for those who don't have significant automotive experience.
If the conventional locksmith techniques don't work You can employ household items like screwscrews and rods of steel. Kitchen tools like spatulas are also helpful in preparing space or getting the trunk open. Unfortunately, some vehicles come with advanced security features which prevent these methods working. A specialist will be required to open your trunk. The experts can also execute a keying or jiggle to bypass locking system or drill a hole into the door and the trunk lock actuator to bypass the locking mechanism. These methods are costly and you should have an emergency key available or call your dealer to arrange an Rekeying. This will aid you in avoiding any future problems.
Damaged Ignition
It might appear easy to turn the key however, there are many parts and steps that need to work together to get the car running. If a component fails, or if even one step is not performed correctly it could result in loss of control or power as you drive. You can prevent more serious issues by recognizing the symptoms of ignition issues.
A mobile mechanic can examine your ignition system for damage if it is becoming harder to turn. With the help of automotive lock picks, they can usually remove the cylinder of the ignition to remove it from any slight destruction that could be causing the problem. They can also address this issue by changing the key's programming or the ignition itself on the spot, making sure that you are able to drive away without fear, with your vehicle's full functionality fully functional.
If your car stops while you are driving it could be a sign you require an ignition repair. If your engine shuts off when you're moving, it can be dangerous to other drivers and put you at risk of accidents on the road. The malfunctioning ignition switches, ignition cylinders, and other components can cause these kinds of issues So fixing them promptly is crucial.
It is possible to replace the entire ignition switch if there is more than one jammed switch. In these instances an expert mechanic on the move can usually do an on-the spot car ignition replacement for you. The mechanic on the mobile can do this by disassembling your steering column, removing the old assembly and installing the new one. This will make it easier for you to insert the key into the ignition and start your vehicle. This type of replacement can save you time and money over buying a brand new car and will be a lot quicker than waiting for an auto shop to open up at a time that works for you.
Damaged Locks
There are several common reasons that your car's locks may be damaged. Some of these issues are easily fixed by changing the key fob batteries and others require more extensive repairs to repair mechanical components or the electronic locking system.
Weather Damage
Extreme temperatures or sun exposure, and even dust can be a major problem for lock systems. These environmental conditions can lead to corrosion, discoloration, and wear over time. This can lead to locks that are no longer functional. Routine inspections are necessary to prevent this.
If you're having difficulty inserting or turning the key in the lock on your door, this could be a sign that the mechanism is jammed. This is likely due to dirt and grime accumulation and can be resolved by a couple of simple DIY methods, such as using an q-tip that is damp or a cotton swab and spraying the lock with graphite or silicone spray.
The pins inside the cylinder may be out of alignment. The issue can be rectified by taking the lock off and manually aligning the cylinder with the keyhole on the door. Once the cylinder is aligned, it should be secured using the correct screws.
The final issue is that the key itself 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 this is the cause then try a different key and verify that there aren't any issues. The best way to resolve any damage is to consult a professional locksmith. These experts will conduct a thorough diagnostic to identify the root of the issue and employ special tools to eliminate any obstruction or misalignment that may be present in the lock mechanism. They will replace the broken pieces with new ones to restore the functionality. A locksmith can also make recommendations on how to protect your lock from future damage. This could include weather-resistant covers or shields that help protect the lock from the harsh elements.