What to Do When Your Car Keys Are Damaged<br /><br />It's not uncommon to lose or damage keys to cars. In many cases these situations, the problem are handled by an auto locksmith.<br /><br />Key fobs often get jostled around, and adjusting the buttons can help them function again. If replacing the battery doesn't help, the fob may need to be replaced entirely.<br /><br />Dead Key Fob Batteries<br /><br />Although the old jingling car keys are long gone, the fact remains that many cars have key fobs. The fobs can be useful, but should their batteries go out, they can become problematic. This is why they must be fully charged at all times. This can be a difficult task, and a dead battery on your key fob could leave you in a bind.<br /><br />The good news is that there are ways to escape this situation. Depending on the model and brand there's usually a mechanical key in the fob that you can use to open the door. Certain models come with an alternative key that can be used to start the vehicle. This works as an emergency and is generally only designed to help you get from point A to B, but it could work in some cases.<br /><br /><br /><br />If you're not able to start your car using this method, the next best option is to raise your vehicle front end off of the ground with an assortment of jumper cables. <a href="https://jsfiddle.net/tondash37/2osb3pf6/">remote key fob repair</a> up to the large terminal on the starter, and the black cable to any nearby ground. This will give the fob battery enough juice to start your vehicle, or at least take you home or to the mechanic.<br /><br />You can also take the key fob to an Interstate All Battery Center to purchase the new battery. To change the battery you'll need a small screwdriver that is flat, butter knivescrew or other tools for prying. Don't apply too much force to the case or it will pop open and scatter parts of the fob all over your living space.<br /><br />After opening the case, use the pry tool to wedge around the fasteners in the same way you would with an apple or orange and begin separating the two halves. Be cautious not to pull on the circuit boards or antennas which contain the power that keeps the key fob programmed to your car. You'll have to take it to your dealer or repair shop for your vehicle if you disturb the circuit boards or antennas.<br /><br />Keys Locked in the Trunk<br /><br />Sometimes, it's easy to lock your keys inside your trunk, particularly if you're on the move or distracted. Many people keep spare keys in their wallets or at their homes. In this situation, you can call an emergency locksmith or roadside assistance service to get your keys. They will unlock the trunk without harming your car and may be able to repair any damaged locks that contributed to the incident.<br /><br />Depending on your situation You can also ask someone else to bring you a spare key or contact the dealership to ask them to create an entirely new key for you. Of course, a better alternative is to keep the spare key in your wallet or at home, so you can have it if you put your keys in the trunk again.<br /><br />If you don't have a spare key, then you may try to open the trunk by overriding the locking mechanism. This involves cutting off a fuse which powers the trunk release. This process can be complex, and it's important to adhere to the safety guidelines. You can find the instructions for your particular vehicle by referring to the owner's manual. This method is not recommended if don't have much automotive experience.<br /><br />If traditional locksmith methods aren't working, you can try to use household items such as a screwdriver or a metal rod. <a href="https://keating-pontoppidan-2.federatedjournals.com/how-to-outsmart-your-boss-on-car-keys-repairs-1728076192">automotive key repair</a> , or any other kitchen tools can be used to force the trunk open or make space. Sadly, some vehicles have advanced security features which prevent these methods from working. A professional will be needed to unlock your trunk. These specialists can also perform an jiggle or rekeying process to bypass the locking mechanism, or they might have to drill the trunk lock actuator and create a hole in the door. These procedures are costly and should be kept as an emergency key in your possession or ask your dealer for the possibility of reconkeying. This will hopefully help you to avoid any future problems.<br /><br />Damaged Ignition<br /><br />It may seem simple to turn the key however there are a lot of elements and steps that must be in sync to get the car running. If one component fails, or even if a single step doesn't happen correctly, it can leave you without control or power while driving down the road. Being aware of the signs that indicate your ignition is having trouble can help you avoid larger problems, and help you find the correct solutions.<br /><br />If your ignition is starting to become harder and harder to turn, it's an ideal idea to have a mobile mechanic check the system for damage. With the help of automotive lock picks, they can usually remove the cylinder of the ignition to free it from any minor damage which could be the cause of the issue. The problem can be fixed by reprogramming the ignition or the key on the spot. This will allow you to leave with the full function of your vehicle.<br /><br />Another indication that you may require an ignition repair is when your car begins to stop while you're driving. If your engine is shut off when you're moving it could pose a risk to other drivers and put you at risk for accidents on the road. Worn ignition switches, ignition cylinders, and other components can create these kinds of issues, so getting them fixed soon is essential.<br /><br />Sometimes, you could have a little more trouble than an ignition switch that is jammed and require an entire replacement instead. In these instances an expert mechanic on the move can usually do an on-the spot car ignition replacement for you. They can do this by disassembling the steering column and removing the old ignition assembly, then installing the new one, making 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 car. It's also quicker than waiting for a shop to open at a suitable time.<br /><br />Damaged Locks<br /><br />There are many common reasons why your car's lock may be damaged. Some of these issues are easily fixable by replacing the key fob batteries, while others need an extensive repair to repair mechanical components or the electronic locking system.<br /><br />Weather Damage<br /><br />Extreme temperatures or sun exposure, and even dust can pose a major issue for lock systems. These environmental conditions can cause discoloration, corrosion, and wear over time. This can lead to the lock becoming no longer functional. In order to avoid this from happening, regular inspections are required so that any issues can be rectified prior to their deterioration.<br /><br />If you are having difficulty making the key turn in your door lock, this could indicate that the mechanism is jammed. This is likely due to grime and dirt accumulation and can be resolved by a few simple do-it-yourself methods such as using an q-tip that is damp or a cotton swab, and spraying the lock with a graphite or silicone spray.<br /><br />The pins in the cylinder could be out of alignment. This is usually fixed by removing the lock's cylinder and manually aligning it to the keyhole of the door. Once the cylinder has been repositioned, the screws should be used to ensure it is secured.<br /><br />The key itself can be damaged in some way. This could be due to excessive force applied when turning the key, or if the key was cut incorrectly. If you suspect that this is the case, try using an alternative key to see if it works with no issues. The best method to address any damage is to talk to a professional locksmith. These experts will perform an extensive examination to identify the root cause of the problem. They will then employ specially designed tools and take out any debris that may be in the lock mechanism. They will replace the damaged pieces with new ones to ensure full functionality. Locksmiths can also offer suggestions to safeguard your car lock from future damage. This could include weather-resistant covers or shields that can protect your lock from harsh elements.<br /><br />