What to Do When Your Car Keys Are Damaged

It's not uncommon to lose or damage keys to your car. Auto locksmiths are able to resolve these issues.

Key fobs often get jostled around, so changing buttons can allow them to function normally again. If the replacement of the battery isn't working, you might have to replace the fob.

Dead Key Fob Batteries

Even though it appears that the days of jingling keys are long gone, many automobiles still rely on key fobs. Fobs are useful, but they can pose a problem in the event that batteries go out. It's important to keep them charged always. Unfortunately this can be a challenge and a dead key fob battery could leave you in the middle of nowhere.

There are ways to get out of this scenario. Based on the model and brand there's usually a mechanical key inside the fob that can be used to open the door. Certain models come with an alternative key that can be used to start the vehicle. This is a last resort that's usually only meant to bring you to your destination, but can be useful in certain circumstances.

If you're unable start the car using this method, the best option is to lift your vehicle front end off the ground with a set of jumper cables. Then, connect the red cable to the big terminal on the starter and the black cable to any nearby ground. This will provide your fob battery with enough power to get your vehicle started or get you home or an auto mechanic.

You can also bring the key fob to an Interstate All Battery Center to purchase a new battery. You'll need small flathead screwdrivers or butter knife, or any other pry tool to access the inside of the fob and open it to change the battery. Don't apply too much force to the case or it will break and scatter parts of the fob across your living space.

Once you've opened the box, wedge your pry tool into the fasteners in the same way you peel an apple or orange and begin to separate the halves. Be careful not to pull the antennas or circuit boards, which contain the electricity that keeps the key fob connected to your vehicle. If you do, you will have to go to your dealer or an auto repair shop to get it programmed again.

Keys locked in the trunk

Sometimes, it's easy to lock your keys in your trunk, especially if you're in a hurry or distracted. Many people keep spare keys in their wallets or at home. In this instance you can contact an emergency roadside assistance or a locksmith to retrieve your keys. They will unlock the trunk without harming your car key repair service and could be able fix any broken locks that contributed to this incident.

Based on your circumstances, you can also have someone else bring you the spare key or contact the dealership to have them create an entirely new Key car Repair for you. Of course, a better option is to keep a 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 try opening the trunk by bypassing the locking mechanism. This involves shorting a fuse that powers trunk release. This procedure can be complicated and requires you to follow the safety guidelines. You can find the instructions for your specific vehicle by referring to the owner's manual. This method is not recommended for those who do not have much automotive experience.

If the traditional methods for locksmithing don't work, you can make use of household tools like screwscrews or a rod made of metal. A spatula, or any other kitchen tools can be used to force the trunk open or make space. Unfortunately, some cars have advanced security features that prevent these methods from working, and an expert will be required to unlock your trunk. These specialists can also perform an jiggle or rekeying process to bypass the locking system, or they might have to drill the actuator of the trunk lock and make a hole in the door. These techniques are expensive, so you should keep an emergency key on hand or contact your dealer for a rekeying. This will hopefully assist you in avoiding future problems.

Damaged Ignition

Turning the key in your car may seem like a straightforward task, but it actually involves many more steps and a series of parts that need to work together in order for the car to begin. If one component is damaged, or an individual step isn't completed correctly, it can leave you without power or control while you're driving on the road. Being aware of the signs that indicate your ignition is not working properly will help you avoid more serious problems, and help you find the right solutions.

A mobile mechanic can check the ignition system for damage if it is becoming difficult to turn. They can take out the cylinder that controls the ignition using automotive lock picks to repair any damage that could be causing the issue. The issue can be resolved by reprogramming the ignition or the key right on the spot. This will allow you to drive away with the full functionality of your vehicle intact.

If your car is stalling while you drive, this could be a sign you need an ignition repair. If your engine stops while you're in motion it could be dangerous to other drivers and put you at risk of accidents on the road. The malfunctioning ignition switches, ignition cylinders and other components can create these kinds of issues and fixing them promptly is crucial.

Sometimes, you might have a little more trouble than simply a jammed ignition switch and require an entire replacement instead. In these instances, a mobile mechanic is usually capable of performing an ignition replacement on the spot. They can do this by disassembling the steering column, and then removing the old ignition assembly, then installing the new one, making it easier to insert the key and start operating your car. This kind of repair can save your time and money compared to buying a brand new car key repair service and is much faster than waiting for an automotive shop to open up at a time that is convenient for you.

Damaged Locks

There are several common reasons why your car's lock could be damaged. Some of these problems can be resolved with simple swapping of the key fob battery 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 all be major problems for lock systems. These environmental conditions can cause corrosion, discoloration and wear over time, which could eventually lead to the lock becoming functionally ineffective. Regular inspections are essential to stop this from happening.

If you are having trouble to insert or turn the key in the lock on your door, it could be a sign that the mechanism is stuck. This is likely due to dirt and grime accumulation that can be cured by a couple of simple DIY techniques, like using an q-tip that is damp or a cotton swab and spraying the lock with graphite or silicone spray.

The pins in the cylinder could be out of alignment. This can be corrected by taking the lock cylinder off and manually aligning it to the keyhole in the door. After the cylinder is relocated, the screws should be used to secure it.

The key itself may be damaged in a way. This can be caused by excessive force when turning the key or if the key was cut incorrectly. If you suspect this is the problem, use a spare key and verify that there are no problems. Ultimately, the best way to address any damage is to speak with an expert locksmith. These experts will conduct a thorough diagnostic to identify the root of the issue. They will use specialized tools to remove any obstruction or misalignment that may be present in the lock mechanism. They will then replace the broken parts with new ones to restore functionality. Locksmiths can also offer recommendations to protect your car lock from further damage. This could include weather-proof covers or shields which can help how to repair broken car key protect the lock from harsh elements in the environment.