What to Do When Your Car Keys Are Damaged
It's not common to lose or break keys to cars. Auto locksmiths are able to resolve these problems.
Key fobs can be tossed around, so changing buttons can help them function properly again. If replacing the battery doesn't aid, the fob could require replacement completely.
Dead Key Fob Battery
Although it might seem that the days of jingling keys are over, a lot of automobiles still rely on key fobs. Fobs are handy, however they can be problematic in the event that batteries go out. It is essential to keep them charged throughout the day. Unfortunately it can be a hassle, and the battery of your key fob that is dead can leave you in the middle of nowhere.
There are options to avoid this situation. Based on the model and make of your car, you may have an electronic lock in the fob. Some models also come with a backup button that can be used to start the engine. This can be used as a last resort and is generally only designed to get you from point A to point B, but it can work in some cases.
If you're unable start your car using this method, the next best option is to raise your vehicle front end off of the ground with an assortment 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 at least get you to home or an auto mechanic.
You can also take the key fob to an Interstate All Battery Center to purchase a new battery. You'll need to have an incredibly small screwdriver with a flat head or butter knife, or any other pry tool to access the inside of the fob, and then open it to replace the battery. Do not apply too much force to the case, or it could pop open and scatter parts of the fob all over your living area.
After opening the case, use the pry tool to get around the fasteners as you would a slice of apple or an orange, and then begin to separate the two halves. Do not pull on the circuit boards or antennas, which contain the electrical current that keeps your key fob programmed. If you do then you must go to your dealer or an auto repair shop to get it programmed again.
Keys locked in the trunk
Sometimes, it's easy to lock your keys inside your trunk, especially when you're in a rush or distracted. Fortunately, many people keep spare car keys somewhere inside their wallets or at home which is why this isn't usually a problem. In this instance, you can call an emergency locksmith or roadside assistance service to come and get your keys. They can unlock the trunk without damaging your vehicle and could be able to fix any damaged locks that contributed to the incident.
Depending on your situation If you are in a pinch, you can request someone else to bring you a spare key or call the dealership and have them create a new key for you. Of course, the best alternative is to keep a spare key in your wallet or at home and keep it in case you need to lock your keys inside the trunk again.
If you do not have an alternative one, you are able to open the trunk by modifying the locking mechanism. car key repair company involves the shorting of a fuse that controls the trunk release. It is important to follow safety guidelines as this procedure isn't easy. Refer to your owner's guide for instructions on how to accomplish this. This method is not recommended if you don't have a lot of automotive experience.
If the standard locksmith techniques aren't successful then you could employ household items like a screwdriver and a metal rod. A spatula or other kitchen tools can be used to pry the trunk open or make space. Unfortunately, some vehicles have advanced security features that stop these methods working. A specialist will be needed to unlock your trunk. They can also carry out the jiggle or keying process to get around the locking mechanism or they may have to drill a hole into the trunk's door and lock actuator to bypass the locking mechanism. These techniques are expensive and you should have an emergency key available or ask your dealer for a reconkeying. Ideally, this will help you avoid any problems in the future.
Damaged Ignition
The process of turning on the ignition in your car could appear to be a simple job however, it involves many more steps and a series of components that must work together to allow the car to begin. If a component fails or if one step is not done correctly, you can lose power or control as you drive. You can avoid more serious issues by recognizing symptoms of ignition issues.
A mobile mechanic can check your ignition system for damage if it is becoming harder to turn. Using automotive lock picks, they are able to remove the ignition cylinder to remove it from any slight destruction that could be causing the problem. The problem can be fixed by reprogramming the ignition or the key on the spot. This will allow you to drive away with the full functioning of your vehicle.
If your car stalls when you're driving it could be a sign you require an ignition repair. If your engine shuts off while you're driving, it can be dangerous to other drivers and expose you to accidents on the road. These issues can be caused by worn ignition switches, ignition coils, and other parts.
Sometimes, you could have more trouble than simply a jammed ignition switch, and need an entire replacement instead. In these instances, a mobile mechanic can typically perform an on-the-spot ignition replacement for you. The mobile mechanic can do this by removing the steering column, then removing the old one and installing the new one. This will make it easier for you to insert the key into the ignition and operate your vehicle. This kind of replacement could save you time and money over the purchase of a brand new car and will be much quicker than waiting for an automotive shop to open at a convenient time for you.
Damaged Locks
There are many common reasons why your car's lock may be damaged. Some of these issues are easily solved by changing the key fob batteries, while others need a more thorough repair to fix mechanical components or the electronic locking system.
Weather Damage
Extreme temperatures, exposure to sunlight and dust are all major problems for locks. These environmental conditions can cause discoloration, corrosion, and wear over time. This can lead to a lock that is no longer functional. Routine inspections are necessary to prevent this.
If you're having difficulty inserting or turning the key in your door lock, this could be a sign that the mechanism is jammed. It could be due to dirt or grime accumulation. You can solve this problem by using a damp cotton swab or qi-tip and spraying a graphite or silicone spray on the lock.
The pins inside the cylinder may be misaligned. This can usually be fixed by removing the lock cylinder and then manually aligning it with the keyhole on the door. After the cylinder has been moved, screws must be used to fix it.
Finally, a common problem is that the actual key is damaged in some way. This can be due to excessive force being used in turning the key or when it was cut incorrectly. If you suspect this is the cause then try a different key and verify that there are no issues. In the end, the best approach to address any damage is to consult with an expert locksmith. The locksmiths will conduct a thorough analysis to determine the root cause of the issue and employ specialized tools to remove any debris or misalignment from the lock mechanism. They will replace the broken pieces with new parts to restore the functionality. Locksmiths can also offer recommendations to protect your car lock from further damage. This can include weather-proof covers or shields that aid in protecting the lock from harsh environmental elements.