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. Auto locksmiths are able to resolve these problems.
Adjusting buttons can help restore functionality to fobs with keys that have been jostled. If the replacement battery doesn't work, you may have to replace the fob.
Dead Key Fob Batteries
Even though the days of the old jingling car keys are long gone, the reality is that many cars have key fobs. The fobs can be useful, but should their batteries go out, they can become problematic. It is crucial to ensure they are charged at all times. This is a daunting task, and a dead battery in your key fob could cause you to be stranded.
There are options to avoid this scenario. Based on the make and model of your vehicle you might have a mechanical lock in the fob. Some models have a backup key that can be used to start the vehicle. This is a last resort typically only used to bring you to your destination, but may be useful in certain circumstances.
If you're not able to start your car using this method, the best option is to lift the front end of your vehicle off the ground with an assortment of jumper cables. Hook the red cable to the large terminal on the starter, and the black cable on to the ground nearby. This will allow the fob battery to have enough energy to start your vehicle, or at least take you home or to the mechanic.
You can also take the key fob into an Interstate All Battery Center to purchase the new battery. To replace the battery, you'll need a small screwdriver that is flat or butter knivescrew as well as other tools for prying. Don't apply too much force to the case, or it could pop open and scatter pieces of the fob across your living area.
After opening the case, use your pry tool to wedge around the fasteners as you would with an apple or an orange, and then begin separating the two halves. Do not pull the antennas or circuit boards, which contain the electrical current that keeps your key fob in the program. You will need to take it to a dealer or auto repair shop in the event that you damage the antennas or circuit boards.
Keys Locked in the Trunk
Sometimes, it's easy to lock your keys in your trunk, especially if you're in a rush or distracted. There are many people who keep spare keys for their cars in their purses or inside their homes, so this isn't always a problem. In this instance you can contact an emergency roadside assistance or a locksmith to take your keys. They will be able to unlock the trunk without damaging your vehicle and could be able to fix any damaged locks that caused this incident.
Depending on your situation You can also have someone else bring you your spare key or call the dealership to request an entirely new key for you. It is best to keep a spare in your wallet or at home, so that you can make use of it in the event that your keys are locked inside the trunk.
If you don't have a spare key, then you can try opening the trunk by bypassing the locking mechanism. This involves shorting out an electrical fuse that powers the trunk release. This procedure can be complicated and requires you to follow the safety guidelines. Refer to your owner's guide for instructions on how to complete this. This method is not recommended for people who don't have significant automobile experience.
In the event that standard locksmith techniques aren't successful, you can try to make use of household tools like a screwdriver and rods made of metal. A spatula, or any other kitchen tools can be used to pry the trunk open or create space. Sadly, some vehicles have advanced security features that stop these techniques from working. A professional is required to unlock your trunk. They can also carry out a keying or jiggle to bypass locking system or make a hole in the trunk door and lock actuator to bypass the locking mechanism. These procedures are costly and you should have an emergency key on hand or call your dealer to arrange an rekeying. how to repair car key fob is ideal that this helps you avoid any problems in the future.
Damaged Ignition
It might appear easy to turn the ignition key however there are a lot of parts and steps that need to be in sync to get the car started. If one part fails, or if an individual step isn't completed correctly, it could leave you without power or control when you're driving on the road. Recognizing the signs that your ignition is having trouble can help you avoid bigger issues, and find the right solutions.
If your ignition is starting to become more difficult to turn, it's an ideal idea to have a mobile mechanic check the system for damage. They can remove the cylinder of ignition using automotive lock picks to fix any damage that could be causing the issue. The issue can be resolved by reprogramming the ignition or the key on the spot. This allows you to drive away with the full function of your vehicle.
Another sign that you may need to repair your ignition is when your car begins slowing down while you're driving. If your engine is shut off when you're moving it could be dangerous to other drivers and expose you to accidents on the road. Worn ignition switches, ignition cylinders and other components can create these kinds of issues So fixing them soon is essential.
Sometimes, you could have more trouble than an ignition switch that is jammed and require an entire replacement instead. In these cases an auto mechanic will usually be in a position to complete an ignition replacement on the instantaneously. The mechanic can do this by disassembling your steering column, taking out the old assembly and installing the new one. This will make it easier for you to put the key in the ignition and operate your vehicle. This can help you save money and time when you are considering buying a new car. It is also much quicker than waiting for a store to open at a convenient hour.
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 key fob batteries while others require an extensive repair to fix mechanical components or the electronic locking system.
Weather Damage
Extreme temperatures, sunlight exposure and dust are all major problems for locks. These environmental conditions can cause discoloration, corrosion, and wear over time. This can lead to locks that are not functional anymore. Routine inspections are required to avoid this.
If you find yourself struggling to insert or turn the key into your door lock, it could be an indication that the mechanism is stuck. It is most likely due to dirt and grime accumulation and can be resolved by a couple of simple DIY techniques, like using a damp q-tip or a cotton swab, and spraying the lock with a graphite or silicone spray.
Another reason that your door locks could be stuck is because the pins inside the cylinder aren't aligned. The issue can be fixed by taking the lock off and re-aligning the cylinder manually with the keyhole on the door. Once the cylinder has been repositioned, the screws should be used to ensure it is secured.
The final 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 when it was cut incorrectly. If you suspect that this is the cause then try a different key and verify that there aren't any issues. The best method to fix any issue is to contact a professional locksmith. They will conduct a thorough analysis to determine the root cause of the problem and use specialized tools to remove any debris or misalignment off the lock mechanism. They will replace the damaged pieces with new ones to restore full functionality. A locksmith can also provide recommendations on how to protect your lock from future damage. This can include weather resistant covers or shields that help protect the lock from harsh elements.