What to Do When Your Car Keys Are Damaged
Car keys see a lot of use, and it's not uncommon for them to get damaged or lost. In most cases these situations, the problem can be dealt with by a locksmith for cars.
Key fobs often get jostled around, so changing buttons can allow them to function normally again. If replacing the battery doesn't aid, the fob could require replacement completely.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
Even though it may seem that the days of jingling keys are long gone, many automobiles still rely on key fobs. They can be very useful however, if their batteries die, they can become problematic. It's important to keep them charged throughout the day. Unfortunately it can be a hassle, and an uncharged key fob battery could leave you in the middle of nowhere.
There are ways to escape this scenario. Depending on the model and brand, there is often a mechanical key in the fob that can be used to open the door. Some models have an additional key that can be used to start the car. This is a last resort that's usually only meant to get you to your destination, but can be useful in certain circumstances.
If you're not able to start the car using this method, the next best option is to lift your vehicle front end off of the ground with a set of jumper cables. Then, connect the red cable up to the big terminal on the starter and the black cable to the ground nearby. This will allow the fob battery to have enough juice to start your car, at least to bring you home or to an auto mechanic.
You can also take the key fob into an Interstate All Battery Center to purchase a new battery. You'll need to have small flathead screwdrivers, butter knife or other pry tool to access the inside of the fob, and then remove it to replace the battery. Don't apply too much force to the case or it will break and scatter pieces of the fob across your living space.
After opening the case, use the pry tool to wrap around the fasteners in the same way you would a slice of apple or orange and start separating the halves. Do not pull car keys repair or circuit boards, which contain the electrical current that keeps your key fob in the program. If you do then you must go to your dealer or an auto repair shop to get it re-programmed.
Keys locked in the Trunk
Sometimes, it's simple to lock your keys inside your trunk, especially when you're in a hurry or distracted. Many people keep spare car keys indoors or in their wallets, so this isn't always an issue. In this situation you should contact an emergency locksmith or roadside assistance service to come and rescue your keys. They can unlock the trunk without damaging your car, and they may even be able to repair any broken locks that caused this incident.
Based on your circumstances You can also ask someone else to bring you a spare key or contact the dealership to have them create the new key for you. Of course, the best option is to keep an extra key in your wallet or home to keep it in case you need to keep your keys locked in the trunk again.
If you do not have a spare, you can still open the trunk by overriding the locking mechanism. This involves shorting a fuse that powers the trunk release. It is important to follow safety guidelines as this procedure can be complicated. Consult the owner's manual for instructions on how to do this. This method is not recommended if do not have much automotive experience.
If traditional locksmith methods aren't working then you could use household items such as a screwdriver or rods of steel. Kitchen tools, such as a spatula can also be helpful in preparing space or getting the trunk open. Sadly, some vehicles are equipped with advanced security features which prevent these methods working. A specialist will be required to open your trunk. They can also carry out a jiggle or rekeying procedure to bypass the locking system or to drill the actuator of the trunk lock and create a hole in the door. These procedures are costly, so you should keep an emergency key available or contact your dealer for an reconkeying. This will aid you in avoiding any future issues.
Damaged Ignition
The process of turning on the ignition in your car might appear to be a simple job however it requires many more steps and a variety of parts that have to work together to allow the car to start. If a component fails, or if even one step is not properly executed, you can lose the power or control you drive. Being aware of the signs that indicate your ignition is failing will help you avoid more serious problems, and help you find the correct solutions.
If your ignition is starting to become harder and harder to turn It's recommended to get a mobile mechanic to check the system for damage. Utilizing automotive lock picks they can often take off the ignition cylinder to free it from any damage which could be the cause of the issue. The problem can be fixed by reprogramming the ignition or the key right on the spot. This allows you to drive away with the full functioning of your vehicle.
Another sign that you may need an ignition repair is when your vehicle starts stalling while you're driving. It could be dangerous for other drivers if your engine shuts down while you're driving. You could also be at risk of an accident. These problems can be caused by damaged ignition switches, worn ignition coils, and other components.
Sometimes, you might encounter more issues than simply a jammed ignition switch and require an entire replacement instead. In these cases the mechanic who is mobile will typically be capable of performing an ignition replacement on the instantaneously. The mobile mechanic can do this by disassembling the steering column, then removing the old assembly and installing the new one. This will allow you to put the key in the ignition and start your vehicle. This can save you money and time in comparison to buying a brand new vehicle. It's also quicker than waiting for a shop to open at a suitable hour.
Damaged Locks
There are a variety of reasons that your car's locks could be damaged. Some of these issues can be solved by replacing the battery for the key fob and others require a more thorough repair to fix the mechanical components or electronic locking system.
Weather Damage
Extreme temperatures, exposure to sunlight and dust are all major issues for locks. These environmental conditions may cause discoloration, corrosion, and wear over time. This can lead to a lock that is no longer functioning. Routine inspections are necessary to avoid this.
If you are having trouble to insert or turn the key into the lock on your door It could be a sign that the mechanism is blocked. This could be due to dirt or grime accumulation. You can fix this issue by using a moist cotton swab, q-tip or cotton swab and spraying a graphite or silicone spray on the lock.
Another reason that your door locks might be jammed is because the pins in the cylinder aren't aligned. This can be corrected by removing the lock cylinder and manually aligning it with the keyhole on the door. After the cylinder has been moved, screws must be used to ensure it is secured.
The key itself can be damaged in some way. This can be caused by the force used when turning the key, or the key was cut incorrectly. If you suspect this to be the case, try using an alternative key to see whether it functions without issues. The best way to resolve any issues is to speak with an expert locksmith. They will conduct a thorough diagnostic to determine the root cause of the problem and use 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 ensure full functionality. A locksmith will also provide suggestions to safeguard your car lock from further damage. This could include weather-resistant covers or shields that help protect the lock from the harsh elements of the environment.