How to Deal With a Replacing Lost Keys To A Car Key in Your Car

Losing your car keys can be an incredibly stressful situation. However, it's not the end of the world when you know what to do.

You can either bring in evidence of ownership or a spare key to the dealer for a new one programmed. There are many ways you can lose keys, which will determine how simple or difficult it is to replace them.

1. Key Worn Out

Over time, keys to automobiles are subjected to to a lot of wear. They are repeatedly put into locks and pockets, jiggling around and smacked against one another. This can cause them to lose their shape, which may result in them not fitting into the ignition cylinder in a proper way. The key will either be stuck or not turn if this happens. It can be a hassle in both instances.

Fortunately, it's simple to avoid this from happening by creating duplicate copies of your vehicle key when it is new. You can then rotate them, reducing the amount of wear each one undergoes. Additionally, if you do lose your lost car keys with no spare keys, you have an extra.

Another reason why you may require replacement is if your key fob isn't functioning properly. As you've guessed, these are very handy to have and can perform a variety of jobs such as unlocking your doors, and even starting your engine to activating the alarm. It can happen for a variety of reasons, but most often it's because the button is worn out. They are small, delicate and often jostled in your pocket or bag. The buttons are prone to be damaged or worn down.

If this occurs, the first thing to do is to thoroughly examine all places that it could be, including your bag or jacket and even in places you would not normally place them (like inside a shoeshine box). Next, call your dealership to see if they have an extra key available. If not, they'll make one for you and have it paired with your vehicle. This can be expensive, but it's much better than the alternative.

You can also lower the chance of this happening by avoiding adding anything else to your key ring and regularly lubricating your key and lock. This will ensure that they both last longer and perform as they should. You should also keep the spare in a secure area, like with family or friends. This way, you will always have the key in case you need it.

2. Damaged Lock

If you can turn the key, but it's not able to fit inside the lock, there could be a problem with the lock. The tumblers in the lock may be blocked by dirt and other debris. This can cause the mechanism to feel stiff. Locksmiths can make use of an instrument that is specifically designed to clean and lubricate the lock to make it feel smooth again.

Another reason why the lock on your car doesn't turn is that it was forced to close. A thief may have attempted to open the door by using a tool, such as a pick or a bump key. If you can see evidence of this on the door handle, you should bring your vehicle to a locksmith right away. The locksmith will be able to repair the issue and prevent future problems.

Some locksmiths can offer a service to disable your old key inside the vehicle, which makes it harder for thieves to take your car. You'll need proof of your identity and proof that you are the owner of the vehicle to be able to avail this service. A V5C form with your name on it is likely to be accepted.

It's recommended to carry an extra key on your person or in the trunk of your vehicle, just in case you lose your key. A spare key will help you get back on the road quicker and save your money by preventing you from calling locksmith.

Depending on the model of vehicle and the key, you may need to contact a locksmith in order to repair it. Dealerships will provide you with a replacement key, but it may cost a towing fee and take a few days to make. A professional locksmith will typically create a new key faster and cheaper and could be able to program it to your vehicle automatically. They also provide various additional services to help you ensure your vehicle is secure like the door seal kit or alarms to prevent theft. Find out more on PolicyBachat.

3. Clogged Ignition Cylinder

Over time your key and ignition cylinder may wear out. A worn-out cylinder could block or become stuck when it is removed, inserted or turned, which could cause problems starting and powering up your car. It is typical for these problems to progress slowly and become more pronounced over time as the cylinder wears out.

This problem is most often indicated by the inability to insert the key into the lock or turn the ignition cylinder. This is a sign the cylinder needs to be replaced. It is possible to replace the cylinder on your own however it is generally recommended to hire an expert.

The ignition cylinder consists of a small metal cylindrical piece that is housed inside the lock cylinder housing. It has two tumblers. Each tumbler is assigned a particular location and is only suited to the right key bumps. In time, tumblers could be worn out or blocked with dirt. To get rid of this issue, you'll have to clean the ignition cylinder port. This can be done with a small bottle of graphite lubricant. You can buy this product at your local auto parts store. Follow the directions on the bottle.

Take off the dashboard and steering wheel covers from your car. This will allow you to have more clarity of the cylinder port. Look for a pin that is placed in the back of the cylinder. This is a security measure that stops your vehicle from being taken. If the ignition cylinder doesn't turn, you'll need to remove the pin that holds it in place to allow it to slide out of the housing.

The process is easy but it requires patience. Make sure that the pin is in the accessory position before drilling. You could also damage your car's electrical and electronic systems by drilling in the wrong spot. Note the part of the drill that protrudes from the keyway before drilling. This will act as a signal to prevent you from drilling too far and damaging the cylinder housing.

4. Locked Out

The first thing to do when you lock your keys in your car is to not panic. Be calm. You might think you're in a bind but there are a variety of ways to get back in your car without breaking the windows or calling a tow truck. You can use shoelaces bobbypins, packaging tape or Slim Jims to get back into your vehicle. But, it's important to be aware that not all methods can be successful and you may need to contact a professional for assistance in certain instances.

The key is to take the most non-destructive approach first. If you are in an emergency you might not be a fan of the idea that a stranger will let you into their vehicle for you, but it is the best option. Many roadside assistance plans provide members the ability to enter their vehicle without the need for a lost car key no spare key.

Another great suggestion is to take a deep breath and walk around the entire exterior of your vehicle to see whether your keys are located in any other door or in the trunk. If you're in a rush it's easy to miss something as simple as the door handle or rearview mirror. Be sure to check everywhere.

If you're still unable to get your car open Try to remain calm and seek assistance from a friend or neighbor who's nearby. Oftentimes strangers will be willing to assist you to get out of the jam since they don't want you to be left in a bind. If they're not able to assist you, then you should take a look at calling roadside assistance, or seeing if your car insurance covers it.

Check the app of the manufacturer of your car or use an android phone to convert your phone into a key fob in order to keep your keys from being locked out in the future. You can also buy an electronic keysafe to keep keys that you don't use to keep them out of the way and away from thieves.