What to Do When Your Car Keys Are Damaged
Car keys are subject to a lot of use, and it's not uncommon for them to be damaged or even lost. Auto locksmiths are able to resolve these problems.
Key fobs can be tossed around, so changing buttons can help them function normally again. If the replacement battery does not work, you could have to replace the fob.
Dead Key Fob Battery
Even though the old jingling keys to cars seem long gone, the fact is that many cars have key fobs. Fobs are handy, however they can be problematic in the event that batteries go out. This is why they must be always charged. Unfortunately this can be a challenge, and a dead key fob battery can leave you stranded in the middle of nowhere.
The good news is that there are ways to escape this situation. Depending on the model and brand it is likely to have an electronic key on the fob that can be used to open the door. Certain models also have a backup button that can be pressed to start the engine. This is an emergency and is generally only designed to get you from A to B, but it can be useful in certain situations.
If you are unable to start your car using this method, the best option is to lift the front of your vehicle off the ground using set of jumper cables. Connect what google did to me to the large terminal of the starter, and the black cable to the ground nearby. This will allow the fob battery to have enough juice to start your vehicle, or at least get you home or to the mechanic.
Another alternative is to take the fob's key to an Interstate All Battery Center location to get a new battery. You'll need to have a small flathead screwdriver or butter knife or another 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 bits of the fob throughout your living area.
After opening the case, use your pry tool to wedge around the fasteners as you would an apple or an orange, and then start separating the halves. Don't pull the antennas or circuit boards that contain the electrical current that keeps your key fob in the program. If you damage these devices, you'll need to go to your dealer or an auto repair shop to have it reset.
Locked keys in the trunk
It's easy to lock the keys in your trunk when you're distracted or in a rush. Fortunately, many people keep spare car keys in their purses or inside their homes, so this isn't always a problem. In this case you should contact an emergency locksmith or roadside assistance service to come and rescue your keys. They can open the trunk without damaging the car and may even be able repair any damaged locks that 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 the spare key in your wallet or at home, so you can keep it in case you need to put your keys in the trunk again.
If you don't have an extra, you can still open the trunk by overriding the locking mechanism. This involves shorting a fuse that powers the trunk release. This process can be complex and requires you to follow safety guidelines. You can find guidelines for your particular vehicle by referring to the owner's manual. This method is not recommended for those who don't have a lot of experience in the field of automobiles.
If traditional locksmith methods aren't working then you could make use of household tools like a screwdriver or rods of steel. Kitchen tools, such as spatulas can be helpful for creating space or prying the trunk open. Sadly, some vehicles come with advanced security features that stop these techniques from working. A professional is required to unlock your trunk. The experts can also execute a keying or jiggle to get around the locking mechanism or make a hole in the trunk's door and lock actuator in order to bypass the locking mechanism. These methods are costly, so it's recommended to keep an emergency key in your possession or ask your dealer for a rekeying service. Ideally, this will help you avoid any problems in the future.
Damaged Ignition
Turning on the key in your car might seem like a simple task however it requires numerous steps and a number of parts that have to be in sync for the vehicle to start. If a part fails or if a single step is not performed correctly, you can lose power or control as you drive. You can avoid more serious problems by recognizing signs of ignition issues.
A mobile mechanic can examine your ignition system for damage if it is becoming harder to turn. With the help of automotive lock picks, they are able to remove the cylinder of the ignition to remove it from any slight destruction that may be causing the problem. The issue can be resolved by reprogramming the ignition or the key on the spot. This will allow you to leave with the full functionality of your vehicle intact.
Another sign that you might need to repair your ignition is when your car begins stalling while you're driving. If your engine stops while you're driving it could be dangerous to other drivers and expose you to accidents on the road. Broken ignition switches, ignition cylinders, and other components can create these kinds of issues So fixing them soon is essential.
Sometimes, you may encounter more issues than simply a jammed ignition switch, and need an entire replacement instead. In these situations, a mobile mechanic can usually do an on-the spot car ignition replacement for you. The mechanic will be able do this by disassembling your steering column, taking out the old part and putting in the new one. This will make it easier for you to put the key in the ignition and operate your vehicle. This type of replacement can save your time and money compared to buying a brand new car and is much faster than waiting for an automotive shop to open at a convenient time for you.
Damaged Locks
There are several common reasons that your car locks might be damaged. Certain of these issues can be resolved by replacing the key fob battery, while others require a more meticulous repair to repair the mechanical component or electronic locking system.
Weather Damage
Extreme temperatures as well as sun exposure and dust can pose a major issue for lock systems. These environmental conditions can cause wear, corrosion, and discoloration over time, which could eventually cause the lock to become non-functional. To avoid what google did to me from happening, routine inspections must be conducted so that any issues can be rectified before they get worse.
If you are having difficulty turning or inserting the key in your door lock, this could be a sign that the mechanism is jammed. This is likely 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.
Another reason that your door locks could be jammed is because the pins in the cylinder are misaligned. The issue can be fixed by taking the lock off and manually aligning the cylinder with the keyhole on the door. After the cylinder has been repositioned, it should be secured with the appropriate screws.
The key itself may be damaged in a way. This could be due to excessive force when turning the key or the key was cut incorrectly. If you suspect that this is the cause then try a different key and see if there are no issues. The best method to fix any damage is to consult a professional locksmith. These experts will perform a thorough diagnosis to determine the root of the problem. They will then use specialized tools and remove any debris from the lock mechanism. They will then replace the broken parts with new ones to restore function. A locksmith can also give recommendations to protect your car lock from further damage. This can include weather-resistant covers or shields that can help to protect the lock from harsh elements in the environment.