What to Do When Your Car Keys Are Damaged
It's not common to lose or damage keys to your car. In many cases these situations, the problem can be dealt with by a locksmith for cars.
Adjusting buttons can help bring back functionality to key fobs that have been damaged. If replacing the battery does not aid, the fob could need to be replaced entirely.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
Even though the old car keys that jingled are long gone, the fact remains that many cars have fobs for keys. They can be very useful however, when their batteries fail, they can become problematic. It is essential to ensure they are charged throughout the day. This is a daunting task, and a dead battery on your key fob can leave you stranded.
There are ways to get out of this scenario. Depending on the model and brand of your car there could be an electronic lock in the fob. Certain models also have a backup button that can be used to start the engine. This can be used as a last resort and is usually only used to help you get from A to B, but it could work in some cases.
If you're not able to start your car using this method, the best option is to raise the front of your car off the ground using a set jumper cables. Hook the red cable to the big terminal of the starter, and the black cable to the ground nearby. This will give the fob battery enough power to start the vehicle, or at least bring you home or to an auto mechanic.
Another alternative is to take the key fob to an Interstate All Battery Center location for a new replacement battery. To change the battery, you'll require an incredibly small screwdriver with a flat head or butter knivescrew, or other pry tools. Be cautious not to apply too much pressure to the case, or it may break open and scatter fob pieces all over your living space.
Once key repair service opened the box, wedge your pry tool into the fasteners in the same way you peeling an apple or orange and begin separating the halves. Be careful not to pull the antennas or circuit boards which contain the power that keeps the key fob connected to your vehicle. If you disturb these then you must visit your dealership 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 if you're in a rush or distracted. Many people keep spare car keys in their purses or inside their homes which is why this isn't usually a problem. In this situation, you can call an emergency roadside assistance or locksmiths to get your keys. They will unlock the trunk without damaging your car, and they may even be able fix any broken locks that contributed to the incident.
You can also call the dealership and ask them to create a key for your. It is advisable to keep a spare key in your wallet or at home to make use of it in the event that your keys are locked inside the trunk.
If you do not have an alternative one, you are able to open the trunk by modifying the locking mechanism. This involves shorting a fuse that powers trunk release. It is important to follow safety guidelines as this process could be a bit complicated. Consult the owner's manual for specific instructions on how to do this. This method is not recommended for people who do not have a lot of automobile experience.
In the event that traditional locksmith methods aren't working then you could make use of household tools like a screwdriver and rods made of metal. Kitchen tools, such as a spatula can also be useful in creating space or getting the trunk open. Sadly, some vehicles have advanced security features that stop these methods from working. A professional is required to unlock your trunk. They can also carry out a keying or jiggle to bypass the locking system, or they may have to drill a hole into the trunk door and lock actuator in order to bypass the locking mechanism. These methods can be costly, so it's a good idea keep a spare key for emergencies or ask your dealer to request a rekeying service. In the ideal scenario, this will help you avoid any issues 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 cooperate to get the car started. If one part is damaged, or an individual step isn't completed correctly, it can result in you being without power or control while you're driving along the road. You can avoid more serious issues by recognizing the indications of ignition problems.
If your ignition is beginning to get harder and harder to turn It's recommended to have a mobile mechanic check the system for damage. They can remove the cylinder that controls the ignition using automotive lock picks to repair any damage that could have caused the problem. The issue can be solved by reprogramming the ignition or the key right on the spot. This will allow you to leave with the full functionality of your vehicle intact.
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 in the event that your engine ceases to function while you are driving. You could be at risk of an accident. The malfunctioning ignition switches, ignition cylinders and other parts can cause these types of problems, so getting them fixed soon is essential.
Sometimes, you may encounter more issues than an ignition switch that is jammed and require a complete replacement instead. In these instances an expert mechanic on the move can typically perform an on-the-spot ignition replacement for you. They'll be able to do this by disassembling the steering column, and then removing the old ignition assembly, and then installing the new one, making it easier to insert the key and start operating your car. This will save you time and money when you are considering buying a new vehicle. It is also much quicker than waiting for a store to open at a suitable hour.
Damaged Locks
There are a variety of reasons that your car lock may be damaged. Some of these problems are easily fixable by replacing the batteries for the key fob while others require an extensive repair to fix mechanical components or the electronic locking system.
Weather Damage
Extreme temperatures, sun exposure and even dust can be a major problem for lock systems. These environmental conditions can lead to discoloration, corrosion and wear over time, which could eventually result in the lock becoming inoperable. Routine inspections are necessary to avoid this.
If you're having difficulty inserting or turning the key in your door lock, this could indicate that the mechanism is jammed. This could be due to dirt or grime accumulation. You can solve this problem by using a moist cotton swab or q-tip and spraying a graphite or silicone spray on the lock.
Another reason why your door locks might be jammed is because the pins in the cylinder aren't aligned. This can be corrected by taking the lock cylinder off and manually aligning it with the keyhole on the door. After the cylinder has been repositioned, the screws should be used to ensure it is secured.
The key itself can be damaged in any way. This can be caused by excessive force when turning the key, or if the key was cut incorrectly. If you suspect that this is the case, you can try using a spare key to see if it works with no issues. Ultimately, the best way to fix any issue is to consult with a professional locksmith. These experts will perform an exhaustive examination to determine the root cause of the problem. They will then use specialized tools and remove any debris from the lock mechanism. They will then replace the broken 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 help protect the lock from harsh elements.