What to Do When Your Car Keys Are Damaged
It's not common to lose or damage keys to cars. Auto locksmiths are able to resolve these issues.
Adjusting buttons can restore functionality to key fobs that have been damaged. If the replacement battery doesn't work, you may have to replace the fob.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
Although the old jingling keys to cars are long gone, the fact is that a lot of cars still have key fobs. The fobs can be useful however, should their batteries go out they could cause problems. That's why they should be fully charged at all times. This is a daunting task and a dead battery in your key fob can cause you to be stranded.
There are options to avoid this situation. Depending on the model and make it is likely to have an electronic key on 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 generally only intended to get you to your destination, but it can be used in certain situations.
If you're not able to get your car started using this method, then the best option is to lift the front of your car off the ground using a set of jumper cables. Connect the red cable to the large terminal of the starter and the black cable to any nearby ground. This will give your fob battery enough power to get your vehicle started, or at least get you to home or an expert mechanic.
You can also bring the key fob to an Interstate All Battery Center to get a new battery. To change the battery you'll require a small screwdriver that is flat or butter knivescrew, or other tools for prying. Do not apply too much force to the case or it will pop open and scatter pieces of the fob across your living space.
Once you've opened the box, wedge your pry tool into the fasteners like you would peel an orange or apple 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 programmed to your vehicle. If you do then you must go to your dealer or an auto repair shop to have it re-programmed.
Keys locked in the trunk
It's easy to lock the keys in your trunk when you're distracted or in a hurry. Fortunately, many people keep spare car keys indoors or in their wallets which is why this isn't usually a problem. In this situation you can contact an emergency locksmith or roadside assistance service to come and help you retrieve your keys. They will be able to unlock the trunk without damaging your vehicle and may even be able fix any damaged locks that caused this issue.
Based on your circumstances, you can also have someone else bring you the spare key or contact the dealership to ask them to create an entirely new key for you. Of course, the best option is to keep a spare key in your wallet or home and keep it handy in the event that you put your keys in the trunk again.
If you don't have a spare key, then you could try to open the trunk by overriding the locking mechanism. This involves shorting out the fuse that controls the trunk release. It is important to follow safety guidelines as this procedure isn't easy. Check the owner's manual for instructions on how to complete this. This method is not recommended for those who don't have extensive automotive experience.
If broken car key repair aren't working You can use household items such as a screwdriver or rods of steel. A spatula or other kitchen tool can be used to force the trunk open or make space. Unfortunately, some vehicles have advanced security features that stop these methods from working, so a specialist will likely be required to open your trunk. These specialists can also perform an jiggle or rekeying process to disable the locking mechanism or to drill the trunk lock actuator and then create a hole through the door. These techniques can be costly, so it's recommended to 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
Turning on the key in your car may seem like a straightforward task however it requires many more steps and a series of components that must work together in order for the car to start. If a component fails or if a single step is not properly executed you could lose power or control as you drive. Being aware of the signs that indicate your ignition is not working properly can help you avoid bigger issues and identify the right solutions.
A mobile mechanic can check your ignition system for damage if it is becoming more difficult to turn. Utilizing automotive lock picks they are able to take off the ignition cylinder to free it from any damage that may be causing the problem. The issue can be resolved by reprogramming either the ignition or the key right on the spot. This allows you to leave with the full functionality of your vehicle intact.
If your car stalls while you drive, this could indicate that you require an ignition repair. It can be dangerous for other drivers if your engine shuts down while you're driving. You could also be at risk of causing an accident. The malfunctioning ignition switches, ignition cylinders and other parts can cause these kinds of issues, so getting them fixed promptly is crucial.
Sometimes, you could encounter more issues than an ignition switch that is jammed and require a complete replacement instead. In these situations an expert mechanic on the move can usually perform an on-the-spot car ignition replacement for you. The mechanic on the mobile can accomplish this by removing the steering column, then removing the old part and putting in the new one. This will make it easier for you to insert the key into the ignition and then operate your vehicle. This kind of repair can save your time and money compared to buying a brand new car and will be much quicker than waiting for an automotive shop to open up at a time that is convenient for you.
Damaged Locks
There are a variety of reasons why your car locks could be damaged. Some of these issues are easily fixed by changing the key fob batteries, while others need more extensive repairs to repair mechanical components or the electronic locking system.
Weather Damage
Extreme temperatures or sun exposure, and even dust can pose a major issue for locking systems. These environmental conditions can lead to discoloration, corrosion and wear over time. This can eventually result in the lock becoming inoperable. To prevent this from happening, routine inspections are required so that any issues can be rectified before they worsen.
If you're having trouble turning or inserting the key in the lock on your door, this could indicate that the mechanism is jammed. This is likely due to dirt and grime accumulation and can be resolved by a couple of simple DIY methods, such as using a damp q-tip or a cotton swab and spraying the lock with a graphite or silicone spray.
The pins inside the cylinder may be out of alignment. The problem can be corrected by removing the lock and then manually aligning the cylinder with the keyhole on the door. After the cylinder has been moved, screws must be used to fix it.
The key itself could be damaged in a way. This can be caused by excessive force applied when turning the key, or if the key was cut incorrectly. If you suspect this is the problem then try a different key and see if there aren't any issues. Ultimately, the best way to repair any damage is to speak with a professional locksmith. They will conduct an extensive examination to identify the root cause of the problem. They'll then use specially designed tools and remove any debris from the lock mechanism. They will then replace the damaged parts with new ones to restore function. A locksmith can also give suggestions to safeguard your car lock from further damage. This could include weatherproof covers or shields that can help to protect the lock from harsh elements in the environment.