What to Do When Your Car Keys Are Damaged
It's not uncommon to lose or damage car keys. In many cases these situations, the problem can be dealt with by an auto locksmith.
Adjusting buttons can restore function to fobs with keys that have been tossed around. If the battery replacement doesn't work, you may need to replace the fob.
Dead Key Fob Battery
Even though the old jingling keys to cars are long gone, the fact remains that many cars have key fobs. These fobs are useful however when their batteries fail they could become a problem. It is essential to keep them charged always. This is a daunting task, and a dead battery on your key fob can leave you stranded.
There are car key repair cost to escape this scenario. Depending on the make and model of your car there could be an electronic lock on the fob. Some models also come with a backup button that can be used to start the engine. This can be used as an option in the event of a breakdown and is generally only designed to get you from A to B, but it could be useful in certain situations.
If you're unable to get your car started using this method, then the next best option is to raise the front of your vehicle off the ground using a set jumper cables. Connect the red cable to a large terminal of the starter and the black cable to any nearby ground. This will give the fob battery enough juice to start your vehicle, or at least get you home or to an auto mechanic.
Another alternative is to take your key fob to an Interstate All Battery Center location to get a new battery. You'll need small flathead screwdrivers or butter knife, or any other pry tool to reach the inside of the fob and open it to change the battery. Do not apply car keys repairs near me to the case or it will break and scatter pieces of the fob throughout your living space.
After opening the case, use your pry tool to wedge around the fasteners as you would with an apple or orange and begin separating the two halves. Don't pull the circuit boards or antennas which carry the electrical current that keeps your key fob programmed. You'll need to take it to a dealer or auto repair shop if you disturb the antennas or circuit boards.
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 car keys somewhere indoors or in their wallets, so this isn't always an issue. In this situation you should contact an emergency locksmith or roadside assistance service to get your keys. They can unlock the trunk without harming your car, and they may even be able to fix any damaged locks that contributed to the incident.
You can also contact the dealership to have them make a key for you. Of course, the best option is to keep the spare key in your wallet or at home to keep it in case you need to lock your keys inside the trunk again.
If you don't have a spare one, you are able to open the trunk by modifying the locking mechanism. This involves cutting off a fuse which powers trunk release. This procedure can be complicated and requires you to follow safety guidelines. You can find guidelines for your specific vehicle by going to the owner's manual. This method is not recommended for those who don't have significant automobile experience.
If conventional locksmith techniques don't work You can make use of household tools like a screwdriver or rods of steel. A spatula or other kitchen tools can be used to force the trunk open or make space. Sadly, some vehicles come with advanced security features that prevent these methods from working. A specialist is required to unlock your trunk. These specialists can also perform an jiggle or rekeying process to bypass the locking system or to drill the trunk lock actuator and create a hole in the door. These procedures are costly, so it's a good idea to keep an emergency key or call your dealership for a rekeying solution. This will hopefully aid you in avoiding any future problems.
Damaged Ignition
It may seem simple to turn the ignition key however there are a lot of elements and steps that must be in sync to get the car going. If one part is damaged, or one step isn't executed properly, it could leave you without power or control while you're driving down the road. Recognizing the signs that your ignition is having trouble will help you avoid more serious issues and identify the best solutions.
If your ignition is beginning to become more difficult to turn It's recommended to get a mobile mechanic to check the system for damage. They can take out the ignition cylinder by using automotive lock picks in order to fix any damage that may have caused the problem. The issue can be solved 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 be a sign you require an ignition repair. If your engine shuts off when you're moving it could be dangerous to other drivers and expose you to accidents on the road. These problems could be caused by damaged ignition switches, worn ignition coils, and other components.
Sometimes, you could have a little more trouble than an ignition switch that is jammed, and need an entire replacement instead. In these cases, a mobile mechanic is usually in a position to complete an ignition replacement on the on the spot. The mobile mechanic will be able 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 then operate your vehicle. This will help you save money and time over buying a new car. It's also quicker than waiting for a shop to open at a time that is convenient for you. hour.
Damaged Locks
There are a variety of reasons why your car locks might be damaged. Some of these problems are easily fixed by changing the batteries for the key fob while others require an extensive repair 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 lock systems. These environmental conditions can lead to discoloration, corrosion, and wear over time. This can result in locks that are not functional anymore. Routine inspections are required to avoid this.
If you're having trouble making the key turn in the lock on your door, this could be a sign the mechanism is jammed. This is likely due to grime and dirt accumulation, which can be solved with a few easy DIY methods, such as using an q-tip that is damp or a cotton swab and spraying the lock with a graphite or silicone spray.
Another reason your door locks might be stuck is because the pins in the cylinder aren't aligned. This can usually be fixed by removing the lock's cylinder and manually aligning it with the keyhole on the door. After the cylinder has been repositioned it must be secured with the correct screws.
The key itself can be damaged in any way. This could be due to excessive force 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 see if there are no issues. Ultimately, the best way to repair any damage is to consult with an expert locksmith. The locksmiths will conduct a thorough diagnosis to determine the cause of the issue. They will use specialized tools to remove any debris or misalignment off the lock mechanism. They will then replace the broken parts with new ones to restore full functionality. A locksmith can also give recommendations to protect your car lock from future damage. This can include weather resistant covers or shields that can protect your lock from harsh elements.