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 lost. In most cases these situations, the problem can be handled by an auto locksmith.

Adjusting buttons can restore function to key fobs that have been jostled. If the battery replacement doesn't work, you may have to replace the fob.

Dead remote key fob repairs Fob Batteries

Even though it may seem that keys that jingle are long gone, many automobiles still rely on key car repair fobs. The fobs can be useful however when their batteries fail, they can become problematic. That's why they should be charged at all times. Unfortunately, this can be difficult, and an uncharged key fob battery can leave you in the middle of nowhere.

There are options to avoid this scenario. Based on the model and brand of your car there could be an electronic lock in the fob. Certain models come with a backup key that can be used to start the vehicle. This is a last resort that's typically only used to bring you to your destination, but can be useful in certain circumstances.

If you're unable to start the car using this method, the next best option is to raise your vehicle front end off of the ground with a set of jumper cables and hook the red cable to the big terminal on the starter and the black cable to any nearby ground. This will give the fob battery enough power to start the vehicle, if not to take you home or to the mechanic.

Another alternative is to take the key fob to an Interstate All Battery Center location to get a new battery. To replace the battery, you'll need an incredibly small screwdriver with a flat head, butter knivescrew or other tools for prying. Don't apply too much force to the case or it will break and scatter bits of the fob throughout your living space.

After opening the case, use your pry tool to wrap around the fasteners like you would a slice of apple or an orange, and then begin separating the two halves. Do not pull on the circuit boards or antennas that contain the electrical current that keeps your key fob programmed. You'll need to take it to a dealer or repair shop for your vehicle if you disturb the antennas or circuit boards.

Keys locked in the Trunk

Sometimes, it's easy to lock your keys inside your trunk, especially if you're in a hurry or distracted. Many people keep spare keys in their wallets or at their homes. In this situation you can contact an emergency locksmith or roadside assistance service to help you retrieve your keys. They can open the trunk without damaging your vehicle and could even repair any damaged locks that caused this issue.

You can also contact the dealership and ask them to make a key for you. Of course, a better alternative is to keep an extra key repairs near me in your wallet or home to keep it in case you need to put your keys in the trunk again.

If you don't have a spare key, then you can try to open the trunk by bypassing the locking mechanism. This involves shorting out the fuse that controls the trunk release. It is important to follow safety guidelines as this process could be a bit complicated. You can find guidelines for your specific vehicle by referring to the owner's manual. This method is not recommended if you don't have a lot of automotive experience.

If traditional locksmith methods aren't working then you could employ household items like screwscrews and rods of steel. A spatula or other kitchen tools can be used to open the trunk open or make space. Sadly, some vehicles come with advanced security features which prevent these methods working. A specialist will be required to open your trunk. The experts can also carry out a jiggle or rekeying procedure to bypass the locking mechanism, or they might have to drill the trunk lock actuator and make a hole in the door. These procedures can be costly, which is why it's recommended to keep a spare key for emergencies or call your dealership to request a rekeying service. This will aid you in avoiding any future problems.

Damaged Ignition

Turning on the key in your car might seem like a simple task however it requires several steps and a series of components that must be in sync for the vehicle to begin. If one component is damaged, Key Car Repair or a single step doesn't happen correctly, it can result in you being without power or remote control car key repairs when you're driving along the road. Recognizing the signs that your ignition is failing can help you avoid larger problems, and help you find the right solutions.

A mobile mechanic will check the ignition system for damage if it is becoming difficult to turn. They can take off the ignition cylinder using automotive lock picks to fix any damage that might have caused the problem. The issue can be resolved by reprogramming either the ignition or the key on the spot. This will allow you to drive away with the full functionality of your vehicle intact.

Another sign that you may require an ignition repair is when your vehicle starts stalling while you're driving. It can be dangerous for other drivers in the event that your engine ceases to function while you're driving. You could also be at risk of having an accident. Broken ignition switches, ignition cylinders, and other components can cause these types of problems, so getting them fixed quickly is vital.

You may have to replace the entire ignition switch in the event that you have more than one jammed switch. In such cases the mechanic who is mobile is usually capable of performing an ignition replacement on the spot. The mechanic on the mobile can accomplish this by disassembling your steering column, removing the old one and installing the new one. This will make it easier for you to insert the key into the ignition and then operate your vehicle. This kind of repair can save your time and money compared to the purchase of a brand new car and key car Repair 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 lock could be damaged. Some of these issues are easily fixed by changing the batteries on the key fob while others require an extensive repair to fix mechanical components or the electronic locking system.

Weather Damage

Extreme temperatures, exposure to sunlight and dust are all major problems for locks. These environmental conditions can cause corrosion, discoloration and wear over time which can ultimately lead to the lock becoming non-functional. Routine inspections are required to stop this from happening.

If you are having difficulty inserting or turning the key in your door lock, this could be a sign that the mechanism is jammed. This is likely due to grime or dirt accumulation. You can fix this issue by using a damp cotton swab, q-tip or cotton swab and spraying a graphite or silicone spray on the lock.

Another reason your door locks might be stuck is because the pins inside the cylinder are misaligned. This can usually be fixed by removing the lock's cylinder and manually aligning it to the keyhole of the door. After the cylinder is repositioned it must be secured with the correct screws.

Another common issue is that the actual key is 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 case, try using an alternative key to see whether it functions without problems. Ultimately, the best way to repair any damage is to speak with an expert locksmith. These experts will conduct a thorough diagnostic to determine the cause of the issue and employ specialized tools to remove any obstruction or misalignment that may be present in the lock mechanism. They will replace the broken pieces with new ones to ensure full functionality. A locksmith can also provide suggestions for how to protect your lock from future damage. This can include weatherproof covers or shields that can protect your lock from harsh elements.