What to Do When Your Car Keys Are Damaged
Car keys see a lot of use, and it's not uncommon for them to become damaged or lost. In many instances these situations, the problem can be handled by an auto locksmith.
Adjusting buttons can help restore functionality to fobs with keys that have been tossed around. If the replacement of the battery isn't working, you might need to replace the fob.
Dead Key Fob Battery
Although it might seem that keys that jingle are long gone, many cars still use key fobs. The fobs can be useful, but should their batteries go out they could cause problems. That's why they need to be always charged. This can be a challenging task, and a dead battery on your key fob could leave you in a bind.
There are options to avoid this situation. Based on the model and brand of your car you might have a mechanical lock in the fob. Certain models come with an additional key that can be used to start the car. This is a last resort and usually only meant to help you get to your destination, but it can be useful in certain circumstances.
If you're unable to get your car started using this method, the best option is to lift the front of your car off the ground with set jumper cables. Hook the red cable to the large terminal of the starter, and the black cable to any nearby ground. This will give the fob battery enough energy to start your vehicle, or at least bring you home or to a mechanic.
You can also take the key fob to an Interstate All Battery Center to get the new battery. You'll need small flathead screwdrivers, 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, as it could pop open and scatter fob components throughout your living room.
Once you've opened the case Once you've opened the case, wrap your tool around the fasteners in the same way you peel an apple or orange and begin separating the two halves. Be careful not to pull the circuit boards or antennas that contain the electricity that keeps the key fob plugged in to your car. If you do, you will have to go to your dealer or an auto repair shop to get it re-programmed.
Keys locked in the Trunk
Sometimes, it's simple to lock your keys inside your trunk, especially if you're in a hurry or distracted. Many people keep spare keys in their wallets or at their homes. In this situation, you can call an emergency roadside assistance or a locksmith to retrieve your keys. They will be able to unlock the trunk without damaging your vehicle and could be able to repair any broken locks that contributed to the incident.
Depending on the situation You can also request someone else to bring you the spare key or call the dealership to have them create a new key for you. Of course, a better option is to keep the spare key in your wallet or at home to have it if you lock your keys inside the trunk again.
If you don't have a spare key then you can attempt to unlock the trunk by overriding the locking mechanism. This involves shorting the fuse that controls the trunk release. This process can be complex and requires you to follow the safety guidelines. Consult the owner's manual for instructions on how to complete this. This method is not recommended if you don't have a lot of experience in the field of automobiles.
If standard locksmith techniques don't work, you can employ household items such as a screwdriver or a rod made of metal. A spatula, or any other kitchen tools can be used to pry the trunk open or make space. However, some vehicles come with advanced security features that block these methods from working, so a specialist will likely be required to open your trunk. These specialists can also perform an jiggle or keying procedure to bypass locking system or they may have to cut a hole through the trunk door and lock actuator to disable the locking mechanism. These procedures can be costly, so it's a good idea to keep a spare key for emergencies or contact your dealership to request a rekeying service. This will hopefully aid you in avoiding any future problems.
Damaged Ignition
The process of turning on the ignition in your car could appear to be a simple job however it requires many more steps and a variety of components that must work together for the vehicle to begin. If car key repairs near me fails, or even if an individual step isn't completed correctly, it can result in you being without control or power while driving down the road. Knowing car key repairs near me that your ignition is having trouble can help you avoid larger issues and identify the correct solutions.
If your ignition is starting to get harder and harder to turn, it's a good idea to have a mobile mechanic check the system for damage. They can take out the cylinder that controls the ignition by using automotive lock picks in order to repair any damage that may be causing the issue. The problem can be fixed by reprogramming either the ignition or the key right on the spot. This allows you to leave with the full function of your vehicle.
If your car stops while you are driving it could be a sign you need an ignition repair. If your engine is shut off while you're in motion, it can be dangerous to other drivers and expose you to accidents on the road. These problems could be caused by damaged ignition switches, ignition coils, and other components.
Sometimes, you may have a little more trouble than simply a jammed ignition switch and require a complete replacement instead. In these instances it is possible to have a mobile mechanic usually do an on-the spot car ignition replacement for you. The mobile mechanic can do this by removing your steering column, removing the old one and installing the new one. This will allow you to insert the key into the ignition and operate your vehicle. This can save you money and time over buying a new car. It's also faster than waiting for a store to open at a convenient hour.
Damaged Locks
There are a variety of reasons why your car locks could be damaged. Some of these problems can be resolved by replacing the battery for the key fob while others require a more thorough repair to fix the mechanical parts or electronic locking system.
Weather Damage
Extreme temperatures, exposure to sunlight and dust can be major problems for locks. These environmental conditions can lead to wear, corrosion, and discoloration over time which can ultimately cause the lock to become functionally ineffective. Routine inspections are necessary to prevent this.
If you're having trouble turning or inserting the key in your door lock, this could be a sign the mechanism has jammed. It is most likely due to dirt and grime accumulation that can be cured with a few easy DIY methods, such as using a damp q-tip or cotton swab and spraying the lock with graphite or silicone spray.
The pins in the cylinder might be misaligned. This can usually be fixed by removing the lock's cylinder and manually aligning it to the keyhole in the door. Once the cylinder has been repositioned, the screws should be used to fix it.
Another common issue is that the key itself is damaged in some way. This can be due to excessive force being used in turning the key or if it was cut incorrectly. If you suspect this is the problem, use a spare key and see if there are no issues. In the end, the best approach to fix any issue is to consult with an expert locksmith. These experts will perform an extensive examination to identify the root of the issue. They will then employ special tools to take out any debris that may be in the lock mechanism. They will then replace the broken parts with new ones to restore function. Locksmiths can also offer suggestions on how to safeguard your lock from further damage. This can include weather resistant covers or shields that can help protect the lock from the harsh elements.