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 even lost. Auto locksmiths are able to resolve these issues.
Key fobs can be tossed around, and adjusting the buttons can allow them to function properly again. If replacing the battery does not aid, the fob could require replacement entirely.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
Even though the old jingling car keys 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's important to ensure they are charged throughout the day. Unfortunately, this can be difficult, and a dead key fob battery can leave you stranded in the middle of nowhere.
The good news is that there are options to get out of this situation. Based on the model and make there's usually an electronic key on the fob that you can use to unlock the door. Some models also come with an emergency button that can be pressed to start the engine. This can be used as an option in the event of a breakdown and is generally only designed to get you from point A to B, but it could be used in certain instances.
If car key repair service 're not able to start your car using this method, the next best option is to lift the front of your car off the ground using a set 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 vehicle or get you to home or an expert mechanic.
You can also take the key fob into an Interstate All Battery Center to obtain 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 remove it to replace the battery. Do not apply too much force to the case, or it will pop open and scatter parts of the fob throughout your living space.
After opening the case, use your pry tool to wedge around the fasteners in the same way you would a slice of apple or orange and 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 connected to your car. If you damage these devices, you'll need to go to your dealer or an auto repair shop to have it programmed again.
Locked Keys in the Trunk
Sometimes, it's easy to lock your keys in your trunk, particularly if you're in a rush or distracted. Many people keep spare keys in their wallets or at their homes. In this situation you should contact a locksmith or a roadside assistance service to rescue your keys. They will unlock the trunk without damaging your vehicle and could be able fix any broken locks that contributed to the incident.
You can also call the dealership to have them create a key for you. It is advisable to keep a spare in your wallet or at home so that you can use it if your keys are locked in the trunk.
If you don't have an extra one, you are able to open the trunk by modifying the locking mechanism. This involves shorting the fuse that controls the trunk release. It's important to adhere to safety guidelines as this procedure could be a bit complicated. Consult the owner's manual for specific instructions on how to complete this. This method is not recommended for those who don't have significant automotive experience.
If the traditional methods for locksmithing don't work, you can employ household items such as screwscrews or a rod made of steel. A spatula or other kitchen tool can be used to pry the trunk open or make space. Unfortunately, some cars have advanced security features that stop these methods from working, which is why a specialist will likely be required to open your trunk. They can also carry out a jiggle or rekeying procedure to disable the locking mechanism, or they might have to drill the actuator of the trunk lock and create a hole in the door. These methods are costly and you should have an emergency key in your possession or call your dealer to arrange an rekeying. This will assist you in avoiding future issues.
Damaged Ignition
Turning on the key in your car might seem like a straightforward task, but it actually involves many more steps and a series of parts that need to be in sync to allow the car to begin. If one part fails, or if a single step doesn't happen correctly, it could leave you without power or control when you're driving down the road. You can prevent more serious issues by recognizing signs of ignition issues.
If your ignition is starting to become harder and harder to turn It's an ideal idea to have a mobile mechanic check the system for damage. They can take out the cylinder of ignition by using automotive lock picks in order to repair any damage that might have caused the issue. The issue can be resolved by reprogramming the ignition or the key on the spot. This will allow you to leave with the full functioning of your vehicle.
Another indication that you may require an ignition repair is when your vehicle starts to stop while you're driving. If your engine shuts off when you're moving it could be dangerous to other drivers and expose you to accidents on the road. The malfunctioning ignition switches, ignition cylinders, and other parts can cause these kinds of issues and fixing them soon is essential.
Sometimes, you could have a little more trouble than just a jammed ignition switch, and need an entire replacement instead. In these instances, a mobile mechanic will typically be able to perform an ignition replacement on the instantaneously. The mobile mechanic will be able do this by removing your steering column, taking out the old part and putting in the new one. This makes it easier for you to insert the key into the ignition and start your vehicle. This will save you time and money over buying a new vehicle. It's also quicker than waiting for a store to open at a convenient hour.
Damaged Locks
There are many common reasons why your car locks could be damaged. Some of these issues can be easily fixable by replacing the batteries for the key fob and others require an extensive repair to repair mechanical components or the electronic locking system.
Weather Damage
Extreme temperatures, exposure to sunlight and dust can all be major issues for lock systems. These environmental conditions can lead to corrosion, discoloration and wear over time. This could lead to the lock becoming not functional anymore. Routine inspections are required to stop this from happening.
If you are having trouble to insert or turn the key in the lock on your door, it could be an indication that the mechanism is blocked. It could be due to dirt or grime accumulation. You can solve this problem by using a damp cotton swab, q-tip or cotton swab and spraying graphite or silicone spray on the lock.
Another reason your door locks may be stuck is because the pins in the cylinder are misaligned. This can be corrected by removing the lock cylinder and manually aligning it to the keyhole on the door. After the cylinder is repositioned and secured with the correct screws.
The key itself may be damaged in some way. This can be due to excessive force applied when turning the key, or if it 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 method to fix any damage is to consult an expert locksmith. They will conduct a thorough diagnostic to identify the root of the issue and employ specially designed tools to remove any debris or misalignment from the lock mechanism. They will replace the broken pieces with new ones to restore the 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.