What to Do When Your Car Keys Are Damaged
It's not uncommon to lose or damage keys to cars. Auto locksmiths can often solve these issues.
Adjusting buttons can help restore functionality to fobs with keys that have been jostled. If replacing the battery doesn't assist, the key fob might require replacement entirely.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
Even though it may seem that the days of jingling keys are long gone, many automobiles still rely on key fobs. Fobs are useful, but they can pose a problem when the batteries fail. This is why they must be fully charged at all times. This is a daunting task and a dead battery on your key fob could cause you to be stranded.
The good news is that there are ways to escape this situation. Based on the make and model there's usually a mechanical key in the fob that can be used to open the door. Some models also have an emergency button that can be used to start the engine. This works as an emergency and is usually only used to get you from point A to point B, but it can be useful in certain situations.
If you're unable start your car using this method, the next best option is to raise the front end of your vehicle off of the ground with a set of jumper cables. Hook the red cable up to the big terminal on the starter, and the black cable to the ground nearby. This will give your fob battery enough power to get your vehicle started, or at least bring you home or to an auto mechanic.
You can also take the key fob to an Interstate All Battery Center to purchase the new battery. To change the battery you'll need an incredibly small screwdriver with a flat head or butter knivescrew, or other tools for prying. Be cautious not to apply too much pressure on the case, as it could pop open and scatter fob pieces all over your living room.
After opening the case, use your pry tool to wrap around the fasteners in the same way you would with an orange or an 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 disturb these, you will have to go to your dealer or an auto repair shop to get it programmed again.
Keys locked in the Trunk
It's easy to lock the keys in your trunk when you're distracted or in a rush. Many people keep spare keys in their wallets or at home. In this instance you can contact an emergency roadside service or a locksmith to take your keys. They can open the trunk without damaging your car and could even repair any damaged locks that caused this issue.
Depending on the situation If you are in a pinch, you can ask someone else to bring you a spare key or call the dealership and ask them to create the new key for you. It is advisable to keep a spare in your wallet or at home to utilize it if your keys are locked in the trunk.
If you do not have an extra one, you are able to open the trunk by modifying the locking mechanism. This involves cutting off a fuse which powers trunk release. This process can be complex, and it's important to adhere to safety guidelines. Refer to your owner's guide for directions on how to do this. This method is not recommended if do not have much experience in the field of automobiles.
In the event that traditional locksmith methods aren't working then you could use household items such as screwscrews and rods made of metal. Kitchen tools like a spatula can also be useful in creating space or prying the trunk open. Sadly, some vehicles come with advanced security features that stop these methods from working. A specialist is required to unlock your trunk. The experts can also carry out a jiggle or rekeying procedure to disable the locking mechanism or to cut the actuator for the trunk lock and create a hole in the door. These methods are costly and should be kept as an emergency key in your possession or contact your dealer for a rekeying. Ideally, this will help you avoid any problems in the future.
Damaged Ignition
It might appear easy to turn the ignition key however there are a lot of steps and parts that must work together to get the car running. If a part fails or if a single step is not properly executed you could lose the power or control you drive. Being aware of the signs that indicate your ignition is failing can help you avoid bigger issues, and find the right solutions.
If your ignition is beginning to become more difficult to turn It's an ideal idea to get a mobile mechanic to check the system for damage. They can take off the cylinder that controls the ignition with the help of automotive lock picks to fix any damage that may have caused the issue. car key remote repair near me can also address this issue by changing the key's programming or the ignition in the moment and ensuring that you're able to drive off without fear, with your vehicle's full functionality in place.
If your car stalls while you are driving it could indicate that you need an ignition repair. If your engine stops while you're driving it could be dangerous to other drivers and put you at risk of accidents on the road. These issues could be caused by damaged ignition switches, ignition coils, and other components.
You may need to replace the entire ignition switch if there is more than a jammed switch. In these instances the mechanic who is mobile will usually be capable of performing an ignition replacement on the on the spot. The mobile mechanic will be able do this by disassembling your steering column, taking out the old assembly and installing 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 replacement could save you money and time over buying a brand new car and will be much quicker than waiting for an automotive shop to open at a time that is convenient for you.
Damaged Locks
There are several common reasons why your car locks could be damaged. Some of these problems can be resolved by simple swapping of the key fob battery while others require a more precise repair to fix the mechanical components or electronic locking system.
Weather Damage
Extreme temperatures, exposure to sunlight and dust are all major problems for locks. These environmental conditions may cause corrosion, discoloration, and wear over time. This can result in the lock becoming no longer functioning. In order to stop this from happening, regular inspections must be conducted so that any issues can be rectified before they worsen.
If you are having trouble to insert or turn the key into the lock on your door It could be a sign that the mechanism is jammed. It is most likely due to grime and dirt accumulation that can be cured with a few easy 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 in the cylinder may also be out of alignment. This is usually fixed by removing the lock cylinder and manually aligning it with the keyhole of the door. After the cylinder has been moved, screws must be used to secure it.
The key itself can be damaged in a way. This could be due to excessive force applied when turning the key or if the key was cut incorrectly. If you suspect this is the case, try using a spare key to see whether it is working without issues. The best way to resolve any issues is to speak with an expert locksmith. The locksmiths will conduct a thorough analysis to identify the root of the problem and use specially designed tools to remove any debris or misalignment from the lock mechanism. They will replace the damaged pieces with new parts to restore full functionality. A locksmith can also give suggestions to safeguard your car lock from future damage. This can include weather resistant covers or shields that can help protect the lock from the harsh elements.