How to Deal With a Lost Key in Your Car
Losing car keys is a nightmare scenario. However, it's not the end of the world provided you know what to do.
First, locate an extra key and store it in a safe place or bring evidence of ownership to the dealer to have a new one programmed. Keys can be lost in a variety of ways, which will impact how easy or hard it is to replace them.
1. Key Worn Out
Over time, keys for automobiles are subjected to many wear. They are repeatedly placed in locks and pockets, then jiggled around and smacked against one another. They can lose their shape and not fit inside the ignition cylinder. The key could become stuck or not turn when this happens. It can be a hassle in both instances.
It's easy to avoid this by creating multiple copies of your new car key. You can then rotate them to reduce the wear on each. You can also make use of the spare key in case you have lost your car keys.
You may also need to replace your key fob if it's stopped working properly. As you know they are extremely useful to have and can perform a variety of jobs including unlocking your doors, and even starting your engine to activating the alarm. It can happen due to several reasons, but the most common is that they've worn out from regular use. They are small and delicate, frequently being jostled around in your bag or pocket and can be easily worn down or have buttons that break off.
If this happens the first thing to do is thoroughly check all the places it could be, including your jacket or bag and even the places you wouldn't normally store them (like inside a box for shoeshine). Call your dealership and ask if they have spare keys on hand. If they don't have one in stock, they can order it and pair it with your vehicle. It's not cheap however it's better than the alternative.
You can minimize the risk by avoiding adding any other items to your key ring and also by regularly lubricating your lock and the key. This will ensure that they last longer and function properly. You should also keep an extra in a secure place, such as with your family or friends. This way, you will always have the key at hand when you need it.
2. Damaged Lock
If you are able to turn the key, but it isn't able to fit into the lock, there could be a problem with the lock. click through the up coming website page of the lock could be blocked by dirt and debris. This could cause the mechanism to feel stiff. Locksmiths can employ an instrument that is specifically designed to clean out and lubricate the lock to make it feel smooth once more.
A car lock that doesn't turn might have been jammed by force. A thief might have used a tool such as bump keys or a pick to open the door open. If you notice any evidence of this on the door handle, take your car to an experienced locksmith as quickly as you can. The locksmith will be able to repair the damage and prevent future issues.
Some locksmiths offer a service that disables your old key in the vehicle, which makes it much more difficult for someone to steal your car. You'll need proof of identity and proof that you're the owner of the vehicle to get this done. Usually, a V5C bearing your name is accepted.
You should also keep a spare car key in your trunk or on your person in the event that you lose it. Having a spare can help you get back on the road quickly and also prevents you from having to pay for locksmith services.
Depending on the type of vehicle and the key, you may have to contact a locksmith in order to get a new key. Dealerships will give you an alternative key, however it could cost an additional towing fee and can require several days to get. A professional locksmith will be able to make a key faster and less expensive. They might even be able to program it to communicate with your vehicle on autopilot. They can also provide a range of services to ensure your vehicle is safe, such as a door resealing kit and alarms against theft. Find out more by visiting PolicyBachat.
3. Clogged Ignition Cylinder
Over time your key and ignition cylinder can wear out. A worn-out cylinder can jam or bind as it is inserted, removed or turned, which could cause problems starting and powering up your vehicle. These problems can develop slowly but they will become more apparent as time passes.
This problem is typically indicated by the inability to insert the key into the lock, or rotate the ignition cylinder. This is a clear indication that the cylinder is worn out and requires replacement. It is possible to replace the cylinder on your own however it is generally recommended to seek out an expert.
The ignition cylinder consists of a small cylindrical piece of metal that is housed within the lock housing for the cylinder. It has two tumblers. Each tumbler is assigned a certain location that is suited to the correct key bumps. Over time, the tumblers can be worn out or blocked with dirt. To fix this, you will have to clean the ignition cylinder port. This can be accomplished with a small bottle of graphite lubricant. You can purchase this product at your local auto parts store. Follow the directions on the bottle.
First, take off the dashboard and steering wheel covers from your vehicle. This will provide you with a clearer view of the cylinder port. Find a pin in the back of the cylinder. This is a security measure that protects your vehicle from being stolen. If the ignition cylinder doesn't turn, then you will have to remove the pin that holds it in place to allow it to slide out of the housing.
The process is easy however, it takes patience. Make sure the pin is in the accessory position before drilling. You could also harm your car's electrical and electronic systems by drilling in the wrong spot. Before drilling, make certain to mark the part of the drill bit protruding out of the keyway with tape. This will serve as a flag to prevent you from drilling too deep and causing damage to the cylinder housing.
4. Locked out
If you've accidentally locked your keys in your vehicle, the first thing to do is not to get scared. You may think that you're in a huge mess, but it's essential to stay calm because there are plenty of solutions and ways that you can get back into your vehicle without damaging the window or calling an emergency tow truck. You can use shoelaces packaging tape, bobbypins, or Slim Jims to get into your vehicle. It's important to remember that not all methods work, and you may need professional help in certain cases.
The most important thing is to take the most non-destructive approach first. If you are in an emergency, you may not like the idea of having someone else will open your car for you, but it's the best option. It's important to note that a number of roadside assistance plans, like the NRMA offers members the option of accessing their vehicle without a key.
Another excellent suggestion is to take deep breaths and walk around the entire exterior of your car to check if your keys are inside any other door or in the trunk. When you're in a rush it's easy to miss something that is as simple as the door handle or the 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 family member or friend that is nearby. Sometimes someone will be willing to assist you to get out of the jam because they don't want to be left in a bind. If they're not able to assist you, then think about calling roadside assistance or seeing if your car insurance will cover it.
Check the app of the car's manufacturer, or use a smart phone to convert your phone into a key fob so you can avoid having your key locked out in the future. You can also purchase an electronic key safe to store your spare keys in, which will keep them away from thieves and out of view.