What to Do When Your Car Keys Are Damaged
Car keys see a lot of use, and it's not uncommon for them to become damaged or even lost. In many cases these instances, they can be dealt with by a locksmith for cars.
Key fobs can be tossed around, and adjusting the buttons can help them function properly again. If the replacement of the battery does not work, you could need to replace the fob.
Dead Key Fob Battery
Although the old car keys that jingled seem long gone, the reality is that many cars have key fobs. These fobs are useful however if their batteries die, they can become problematic. This is why they must be kept fully charged at all times. Unfortunately it can be a hassle, and a dead key fob battery could leave you in the middle of nowhere.
There are ways to escape this scenario. Depending on the model and brand of your vehicle you might have an electronic lock on the fob. Certain models also have a backup button that can be pressed to start the engine. This is a last resort generally only intended to help you get to your destination, but can work in certain cases.
If you're unable to start your car using this method, the next best option is to raise the front of your car off of the ground with an assortment of jumper cables. Hook the red cable to the big terminal on the starter, and the black cable to the ground nearby. This will provide the fob battery with enough juice to start your vehicle, if not to take you home or to a mechanic.
You can also bring the key fob to an Interstate All Battery Center to purchase the new battery. To change the battery, you'll need a small screwdriver that is flat or butter knivescrew as well as other tools for prying. Be careful not to apply too much pressure on the case, or it may break open and scatter fob parts all over your living space.
Once you've opened the case After you've opened it, place your tool around the fasteners, like you would peel an orange or apple and begin to separate the halves. Don't pull the circuit boards or antennas which carry the electrical current that keeps your key fob in the program. You will need to take it to your dealer or repair shop for your vehicle in the event that you damage the circuit boards or antennas.
Keys locked in the trunk
It's simple to lock the keys in your trunk when you're in a hurry. Many people keep spare keys in their wallets or at home. In this instance, you can call an emergency locksmith or roadside assistance service to get your keys. They can unlock the trunk without damaging your car and may even be able fix any damaged locks that contributed to this incident.
You can also call the dealership and ask them to make a key for you. Of course, a better alternative is to keep the spare key in your wallet or home and have it if you keep your keys locked in the trunk again.
If you don't have a spare key then you may attempt to unlock the trunk by overriding the locking mechanism. This involves cutting off a fuse which powers trunk release. It is essential to adhere to safety guidelines as this procedure isn't easy. Check the owner's manual for instructions on how to accomplish this. This method is not recommended for those who don't have significant automobile experience.
If the conventional locksmith techniques don't work You can use household items such as a screwdriver and rods of steel. Kitchen tools such as spatulas can be helpful for creating space or getting the trunk open. Unfortunately, some vehicles have advanced security features that prevent these methods from working, and an expert will be required to open your trunk. car keys repairs can also perform a jiggle or rekeying procedure to bypass the locking system, or they might have to drill the actuator of the trunk lock and create a hole in the door. These methods can be costly, so it's a good idea keep a spare key for emergencies or ask your dealer for a rekeying solution. In the ideal scenario, this will help you avoid any problems in the future.
Damaged Ignition
It might seem easy to turn the ignition key, but there are many parts and steps that need to be in sync to get the car started. If one component fails, or if a single step doesn't happen correctly, it could leave you without power or control while you're driving down the road. Being aware of the signs that indicate your ignition is failing can help you avoid larger issues, and find the right solutions.
If your ignition is starting to get harder and harder to turn It's an ideal idea to conduct a mobile mechanic inspection of the system for damage. Using automotive lock picks, they can often take off the ignition cylinder to free it from any damage that could be causing the issue. The issue can be resolved by reprogramming the ignition or the key on the spot. This will allow you to drive away with the full function of your vehicle.
Another sign that you may require an ignition repair is when your car starts stalling while you're driving. It can be dangerous for other drivers in the event that your engine ceases to function while you are driving. You may also be at risk of an accident. Broken ignition switches, ignition cylinders and other components can cause these kinds of issues and fixing them soon is essential.
car key repairs may need to replace the entire ignition switch if you have more than a jammed switch. In these instances the mechanic who is mobile is usually capable of performing an ignition replacement on the spot. The mobile mechanic can accomplish this by disassembling the steering column, then removing the old one and installing the new one. This will allow you to insert the key into the ignition and then operate your vehicle. This kind of replacement could save your time and money compared to the purchase of 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 a variety of reasons why your car locks might be damaged. Some of these problems are easily solved by changing the batteries on the key fob while others require more extensive repairs to repair mechanical components or the electronic locking system.
Weather Damage
Extreme temperatures, sun exposure and even dust can pose a major issue for locking systems. These environmental conditions can cause discoloration, corrosion, and wear over time. This can result in the lock becoming not functional anymore. To avoid this from happening, routine inspections should be performed so any issues can be rectified prior to their deterioration.
If you are having trouble to insert or turn the key into your door lock, it could be an indication that the mechanism is blocked. 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 jammed is that the pins in the cylinder are not aligned. This can usually be fixed by taking the lock cylinder off and manually aligning it to the keyhole of the door. After the cylinder has been repositioned, the screws should be used to fix it.
Finally, a common problem is that the actual key is damaged in some way. This could be due to excessive force applied in turning the key or when it was cut incorrectly. If you suspect this is the problem try using a spare key and verify that there are no issues. In the end, the best approach to address any damage is to talk to an expert locksmith. They will conduct a thorough diagnosis to determine the root of the issue. They'll then use specially designed tools and remove any debris from the lock mechanism. They will replace the broken pieces with new ones to restore the functionality. A locksmith can also provide suggestions for how to protect your lock from damage in the future. This could include weather-proof covers or shields which can aid in protecting the lock from harsh elements in the environment.