What to Do When Your Car Keys Are Damaged
Car keys are subject to a lot of use, and it's not uncommon for them to be damaged or even lost. In many instances these situations, the problem are handled by an auto locksmith.
Key fobs are often jostled around, and adjusting the buttons can allow them to function again. If the replacement of the battery isn't working, you might need to replace the fob.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
Even though the days of the old car keys that jingled are long gone, the fact is that many cars still have fobs for keys. Fobs are useful, but they can be a problem if the batteries die. It is crucial to keep them charged at all times. This can be a difficult task and a dead battery in your key fob could leave you in a bind.
There are ways to escape this situation. Based on the model and make of your vehicle you might have a mechanical lock in the fob. Some models also come with an emergency button that can be used to start the engine. This can be used as an emergency and is generally only designed to get you from A to B, however it may work in some cases.
If you're unable to start your car with this method, the best option is to lift the front of your car off the ground using a set jumper cables. Connect the red cable to the large terminal of the starter, and the black cable to the ground nearby. This will provide the fob battery with enough energy to start your car, at least to get you home or to the mechanic.
You can also take the key fob into 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 pry tools. Be cautious not to apply too much pressure to the case, or it could break open and scatter fob components all over your living space.
After opening the case, use the pry tool to wrap around the fasteners like you would an apple or orange and start separating the halves. Be careful not to pull the antennas or circuit boards, which contain the electricity that keeps the key fob programmed to your vehicle. If you damage these devices, you'll need to visit your dealership or an auto repair shop to get it re-programmed.
Keys locked in the trunk
It's easy to lock your keys in your trunk when you're distracted or in a hurry. There are many people who keep spare keys for their cars in their purses or inside their homes, so this isn't always an issue. In this instance, you can call an emergency locksmith or roadside assistance service to rescue your keys. They will be able to unlock the trunk without damaging the car and may even be able fix any broken locks which caused this issue.
You can also call the dealership to request them to create a key for you. It is advisable to keep a spare key in your wallet or at home to utilize it if your keys are locked inside the trunk.
If you don't have a spare key then you may try opening the trunk by bypassing the locking mechanism. This involves shorting a fuse that powers the trunk release. It is important to follow safety guidelines since this procedure can be complicated. You can find the instructions for your particular vehicle by referring to the owner's manual. This method is not recommended for people who don't have significant car experience.
In the event that traditional locksmith methods aren't working You can make use of household tools like screwscrews and rods made of metal. Kitchen tools such as spatulas are also helpful for creating space or opening the trunk open. Unfortunately, some cars have advanced security features that prevent these methods from working, which is why experts will likely be required to open your trunk. The experts can also carry out a jiggle or rekeying procedure to disable the locking mechanism or to drill the trunk lock actuator and create a hole in the door. These methods can be costly, which is why it's a good idea to keep an emergency key in your possession or contact your dealership to request a rekeying service. It is ideal that this helps you avoid any issues in the future.
Damaged Ignition
Turning the key in your car may seem like a straightforward task however it requires many more steps and a series of components that must be in sync in order for the car to start. If one part is damaged, or a single step doesn't happen correctly, it could cause you to lose power or control when you're driving on the road. Knowing the signs that your ignition is not working properly can help you avoid larger issues, and find the right solutions.
A mobile mechanic can examine your ignition system for damage if it's becoming more difficult to turn. Using automotive lock picks, they can usually remove the ignition cylinder to remove it from any damage which could be the cause of the issue. The issue can be solved by reprogramming either the ignition or the key right on the spot. This allows you to drive away with the full functionality of your vehicle intact.
Another indication that you may need an ignition repair is when your vehicle starts stalling while you're driving. It can be dangerous for other drivers if your engine shuts down while you are driving. You could also be at risk of having an accident. These problems are often caused by damaged ignition switches, worn ignition coils, and other parts.
Sometimes, you could have more trouble than just a jammed ignition switch and require a complete replacement instead. In such cases, a mobile mechanic will typically be in a position to complete an ignition replacement on the on the spot. They'll be able to accomplish this by disassembling the steering column, and then removing the old ignition assembly, and then installing the new one to make it easier to insert the key and start operating your vehicle. This kind of replacement could save you time and money over a completely new car, and is much faster than waiting for an auto shop to open up at a convenient time for you.
Damaged Locks
There are several common reasons that your car locks may be damaged. Certain of these issues can be solved by replacing the battery on the key fob, while others require a more precise repair to fix the mechanical components or electronic locking system.
Weather Damage
Extreme temperatures, sunlight exposure and dust can be major issues for locks. These environmental conditions may cause corrosion, discoloration and wear over time. This can lead to a lock that is not functional anymore. Regular inspections are essential to stop this from happening.
If you are having difficulty turning or inserting the key in your door lock, this could be a sign that the mechanism has become jammed. This is most likely due to dirt and grime accumulation and can be resolved by a few simple do-it-yourself techniques, like using a damp q-tip or a cotton swab and spraying the lock with graphite or silicone spray.
Another reason that your door locks might be jammed is that the pins inside the cylinder are misaligned. This is usually fixed by taking the lock cylinder off and manually aligning it to the keyhole on the door. Once the cylinder has been moved, screws must be used to ensure it is secured.
key repair car may be damaged in some way. This can be caused by excessive force applied when turning the key, or if the key was cut incorrectly. If you suspect that this is the issue try using a spare key and check if there aren't any issues. The best method to fix any issue is to contact an expert locksmith. They will conduct a thorough diagnosis to determine the cause of the issue. They will use specially designed tools to remove any debris or misalignment from the lock mechanism. They will then replace the damaged parts with new ones to restore functionality. A locksmith can also provide recommendations on how to protect your lock from further damage. This can include weatherproof covers or shields that help protect the lock from harsh elements.