What to Do When Your Car Keys Are Damaged
Car keys get lots of use and it's not uncommon for them to get damaged or even lost. In many cases these situations, the problem are handled by an auto locksmith.
Adjusting buttons can help restore function to key fobs that have been jostled. If replacing the battery doesn't aid, the fob could need to be replaced entirely.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
Even though it appears that the days of jingling keys are long gone, many automobiles still rely on key fobs. These fobs are useful, but should their batteries go out, they can become problematic. That's why they should be kept charged at all times. Unfortunately, this can be difficult, and an uncharged key fob battery can leave you in the middle of nowhere.
The good news is that there are options to escape this situation. Depending on your model and brand there's usually a mechanical key in the fob that you can use to unlock the door. Some models also come with an emergency button that can be used to start the engine. This is a last resort typically only used to help you get to your destination, but may be useful in certain circumstances.
If you're unable to start your car with this method, the best option is to raise the front of your car off the ground with a set of jumper cables and hook the red cable to the large terminal on the starter and the black cable on to any nearby ground. This will give your fob battery enough power to start your car or get you to home or an auto mechanic.
You can also bring the key fob to an Interstate All Battery Center to obtain a new battery. You'll need a small flathead screwdriver, butter knife or other pry tool to access the inside of the fob, and then remove it to replace the battery. Be cautious not to apply too much pressure to the case, or it may pop open and scatter fob pieces throughout your living room.
After opening the case, use the pry tool to wedge around the fasteners like you would a slice of orange or an apple and start separating the halves. Be careful not to pull the circuit boards or antennas, which contain the electricity that keeps the key fob plugged in to your vehicle. You'll need to take it to a dealer or repair shop for your vehicle if you disturb the circuit boards or antennas.
Locked Keys in the Trunk
It's easy to lock your keys in your trunk when you're in a hurry. Many people keep spare keys in their wallets or at their homes. In this situation you should contact an emergency roadside assistance or a locksmith to retrieve your keys. They will be able to open the trunk without damaging your vehicle and may even be able fix any broken locks which caused this issue.
You can also call the dealership to have them create a key for you. Of course, a better alternative is to keep an extra key in your wallet or at home, so you can keep it handy in the event that you keep your keys locked 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 the shorting of a fuse that controls the trunk release. This can be a complicated process and requires you to follow the safety guidelines. Check the owner's manual for directions on how to complete this. keys repair is not recommended for people who do not have a lot of automotive experience.
If traditional locksmith methods aren't working You can use household items such as a screwdriver and a metal rod. A spatula or other kitchen tool can be used to force the trunk open or make space. Unfortunately, some cars have advanced security features that stop these methods from working, which is why experts will likely be required to open your trunk. The experts can also execute a keying or jiggle to get around the locking mechanism or they may have to cut a hole through the trunk's door and lock actuator to disable the locking mechanism. These techniques are expensive and you should have an emergency key available or call your dealer to arrange an reconkeying. This will hopefully help you to avoid any future issues.
Damaged Ignition
The process of turning on the ignition in your car could appear to be a simple job however, it involves several steps and a number of parts that have to work together to allow the car to start. If one component is damaged, or a single step doesn't happen correctly, it can cause you to lose power or control while you're driving down the road. Being aware of the signs that indicate your ignition is failing will help you avoid more serious issues, and find the best solutions.
If your ignition is beginning to become harder and harder to turn, it's recommended to conduct a mobile mechanic inspection of the system for damage. Using automotive lock picks, they are able to take off the ignition cylinder to free it from any damage which could be the cause of the issue. They can also address this issue by changing the key's programming or the ignition on the spot and ensuring that you're able to drive off without fear, with your vehicle's full functionality in place.
If your car is stalling while you are driving, this could indicate that you require an ignition repair. If your engine stops while you're driving it could pose a risk to other drivers and expose you to accidents on the road. These issues can be caused by damaged ignition switches, ignition coils, or other components.
It is possible to replace the entire ignition switch in the event that you have more than a stuck switch. In these instances an auto mechanic is usually in a position to complete an ignition replacement on the on the spot. They'll be able to do this by disassembling the steering column and taking out the old ignition assembly, then installing the new one to make it easier to insert the key and start operating your vehicle. This will save you money and time over buying a new car. It is also much quicker than waiting for a shop to open at a time that is convenient for you. time.
Damaged Locks
There are several common reasons that your car's locks may be damaged. Some of these issues can be easily fixed by changing the batteries for the key fob and others require a more thorough repair to fix mechanical components or the electronic locking system.
Weather Damage
Extreme temperatures, exposure to sunlight and dust can all be major issues for lock systems. These environmental conditions may cause corrosion, discoloration, and wear over time. This could lead to the lock becoming no longer functional. Regular inspections are essential to stop this from happening.
If you're having difficulty turning or inserting the key in your door lock, it could be a sign the mechanism has jammed. This could be due to dirt or grime accumulation. You can resolve this issue by using a damp cotton swab, q-tip or cotton swab and spraying graphite or silicone spray on the lock.
The pins inside the cylinder may be out of alignment. The problem can be corrected by taking the lock off and then manually aligning the cylinder with the keyhole on the door. After the cylinder has been relocated, the screws should be used to ensure it is secured.
The final issue is that the actual key is damaged in some way. This can be caused by excessive force when turning the key or the key was cut incorrectly. If you suspect this is the problem then try a different key and check if there aren't any issues. The best method to fix any issue is to contact a professional locksmith. The locksmiths will conduct a thorough diagnostic to determine the cause of the issue. They will use special tools to eliminate any debris or misalignment from the lock mechanism. They will replace the broken pieces with new ones to restore the functionality. A locksmith can also give recommendations to protect your car lock from future damage. This can include weatherproof covers or shields that can aid in protecting the lock from the harsh elements of the environment.