What to Do When Your Car Keys Are Damaged

It's not uncommon to lose or damage keys to cars. In many cases, these issues can be handled by an auto locksmith.

Key fobs are often jostled around, so changing buttons can allow them to function properly again. If the replacement battery does not work, you could need to replace the fob.

Dead Key Fob Battery

Although the old jingling keys to cars are long gone, the fact remains that a lot of cars still have key fobs. Fobs are useful, but they can pose a problem if the batteries die. It is essential to ensure they are charged throughout the day. This can be a difficult task, and a dead battery in your key fob could leave you 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 an additional key that can be used to start the vehicle. This is a last resort usually only meant to bring you to your destination, but can be used in certain situations.

If you're not able to start your car using this method, then the next best option is to lift the front of your vehicle off the ground using a set jumper cables. Hook the red cable to a large terminal of the starter, and the black cable to any nearby ground. This will give your fob battery enough power to start your car or get you to home or a mechanic.

Another option is to take the key fob to an Interstate All Battery Center location for a new replacement battery. To change the battery, you'll require an incredibly small screwdriver with a flat head or butter knivescrew, or other tools for prying. Be cautious not to apply too much pressure to the case, or it could explode and scatter fob components throughout your living room.

After opening the case, use the pry tool to get around the fasteners as you would with an apple or orange and begin separating the two halves. Be careful not to pull on the circuit boards or antennas which contain the power that keeps the key fob connected to your car. If you disturb these devices, you'll need to go to your dealer or an auto Keyless Entry Repair shop to have it re-programmed.

Keys locked in the trunk

Sometimes, it's simple to lock your keys in your trunk, especially when you're in a hurry or distracted. Many people keep spare keys in their wallets or at home. In this instance you should contact an emergency locksmith or roadside assistance service to help you retrieve your keys. They will unlock the trunk without damaging your vehicle and may be able fix any damaged locks that caused this incident.

You can also call the dealership and ask them to make a key for you. Of course, the best option is to keep a spare key in your wallet or home to keep it handy in the event that you lock your keys inside the trunk again.

If you don't have a spare key, then you could attempt to unlock the trunk by bypassing the locking mechanism. This involves shorting out a fuse that powers the trunk release. This can be a complicated process and requires you to follow the safety guidelines. Consult the owner's manual for specific instructions on how to complete this. This method is not recommended if don't have a lot of experience in the field of automobiles.

If the traditional locksmith methods aren't working, you can try to employ household items like a screwdriver or rods made of metal. Kitchen tools, such as a spatula can also be useful in creating space or getting the trunk open. Unfortunately, some cars have advanced security features that prevent these methods from working, so a specialist will likely be required to unlock your trunk. These specialists can also perform an jiggle or rekeying process to disable the locking mechanism or to drill the actuator of the trunk lock and then create a hole through the door. These procedures are costly, so it's a good idea keep an emergency key in your possession or ask your dealer for a rekeying service. This will assist you in avoiding future problems.

Damaged Ignition

Turning the key in your car key fob repairs might appear to be a simple job however it requires many more steps and a number of parts that have to be in sync to allow the car to start. If a component fails, or if even one step is not properly executed you could lose the power or control you drive. Being aware of the signs that indicate your ignition is not working properly can help you avoid larger issues, and find the best solutions.

A mobile mechanic can examine your ignition system for damage if it is becoming difficult to turn. With the help of automotive lock picks, they can usually remove the ignition cylinder to remove it from any slight destruction which could be the cause of the issue. The problem can be fixed by reprogramming either the ignition or the key right 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 stops while you're driving it could pose a risk to other drivers and put you at risk of accidents on the road. These problems are often caused by worn ignition switches, ignition coils, or other components.

Sometimes, you could have a little more trouble than just a jammed ignition switch, and need an entire replacement instead. In these instances it is possible to have a mobile mechanic typically perform an on-the-spot ignition replacement for you. They'll be able to accomplish this by disassembling the steering column and removing the old ignition assembly before installing the new one to make it easier to insert the key and start operating your car. This can save you time and money in comparison to buying a brand new remote car key repair. It's also faster than waiting for a shop to open at a time that is convenient for you. time.

Damaged Locks

There are several common reasons that your car's locks could be damaged. Some of these problems are easily fixed by changing the batteries on the key fob and others require more extensive repairs to repair key mechanical components or the electronic locking system.

Weather Damage

Extreme temperatures, exposure to sunlight and dust are all major issues for locks. These environmental conditions can cause corrosion, discoloration and wear over time, which could eventually lead to the lock becoming inoperable. Regular inspections are essential to prevent this.

If you're having difficulty making the key turn in the lock on your door, this could be a sign the mechanism has become jammed. It could be due to grime or dirt accumulation. You can resolve this issue by using a damp cotton swab or q-tip and spraying graphite or silicone spray on the lock.

Another reason that your door locks may be jammed is that the pins in the cylinder aren't aligned. This can usually be fixed by removing the lock's cylinder and then manually aligning it with the keyhole on the door. Once the cylinder is aligned and secured using the correct screws.

The key itself may be damaged in some way. This can be caused by excessive force applied when turning the key or if the key was cut incorrectly. If you suspect this is the cause try using a spare key and verify that there are no issues. The best method to fix any damage is to consult a professional locksmith. These experts will perform an exhaustive examination to determine the root cause of the issue. They'll then use special tools to take out any debris that may be in the lock mechanism. They will replace the broken pieces with new ones to ensure full functionality. A locksmith can also give suggestions to safeguard your car lock from further damage. This could include weather-resistant covers or shields that help to protect the lock from harsh elements in the environment.