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What to Do When Your Car Keys Are Damaged

It's not common to lose or damage car keys. In most cases these instances, they are handled by an auto locksmith.

Key fobs are often jostled around, so changing buttons can allow them to function again. If the battery replacement isn't working, you might need to replace the fob.

Dead Key Fob Batteries

Although the old car keys that jingled seem long gone, the reality is that a lot of cars still have fobs for keys. The fobs can be useful, but if their batteries die they could cause problems. It is essential to keep them fully charged at all times. Unfortunately this can be a challenge and the battery of your key fob that is dead can leave you stranded in the middle of nowhere.

There are ways to escape this situation. Based on the model and make it is likely to have a mechanical key inside the fob that can be used to open the door. Some models also have a backup button that can be used to start the engine. This is an option in the event of a breakdown and is typically only intended to help you get from point A to B, but it can work in some cases.

If you're unable start your car using this method, the best option is to lift your vehicle front end off of the ground with a set of jumper cables. Then, connect the red cable up to the large terminal on the starter, and the black cable to any nearby ground. This will allow the fob battery to have enough energy to start your car, at least to take you home or to the mechanic.

Another alternative is to take your key fob to an Interstate All Battery Center location for a new replacement battery. You'll need small flathead screwdrivers or butter knife, or any other pry tool to get access to the inside of the fob, and then open it to change the battery. Be cautious not to apply too much pressure on the case, or it may explode and scatter fob components all over your living space.


After you have opened the case After you've opened it, place your pry tool around the fasteners, like you peel an apple or orange and begin to separate the halves. Do not pull on the circuit boards or antennas which carry the electrical current that keeps your key fob in the program. If you do then you must visit your dealership or an auto repair shop to have it reset.

Locked keys in the trunk

Sometimes, it's easy to lock your keys inside your trunk, especially when you're in a hurry or distracted. Many people keep spare keys in their wallets or at their homes. In this case you should contact an emergency roadside assistance or locksmiths to get your keys. They can open the trunk without damaging the car and could even fix any broken locks which caused this issue.

You can also contact the dealership to request them to make a key for you. It is recommended to keep a spare key in your wallet or at home to utilize it if your keys are locked inside the trunk.

If you don't have a spare key then you may try to open the trunk by overriding the locking mechanism. This involves shorting a fuse that powers trunk release. It's important to adhere to safety guidelines since this procedure could be a bit complicated. Consult key repair near me for instructions on how to do this. This method is not recommended for those who do not have a lot of car experience.

If the traditional methods for locksmithing don't work, you can make use of household tools like the screwdriver or rod made of metal. Kitchen tools, such as spatulas are also useful in creating space or getting the trunk open. Unfortunately, some vehicles have advanced security features that stop these methods from working, and a specialist will likely be required to open your trunk. They can also carry out the jiggle or keying process to bypass locking system or drill a hole into the door and the trunk lock actuator to disable the locking mechanism. These procedures can be costly, so it's recommended to keep an emergency key or ask your dealer to request a rekeying service. This should help you to avoid any future problems.

Damaged Ignition

It might appear easy to turn the ignition key however, there are many parts and steps that need to be in sync to get the car started. If one component fails, or if an individual step isn't completed correctly, it could cause you to lose power or control while you're driving down the road. You can avoid more serious issues by recognizing the signs of ignition issues.

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 are able to remove the ignition cylinder to free it from any damage that may be causing the issue. They can also resolve this issue by changing the key's programming or the ignition itself in the moment and ensure that you are able to drive away without fear, with your vehicle's full functionality intact.

If your car stops while you are driving, this could be a sign you need an ignition repair. If your engine shuts off while you're driving, it can be dangerous to other drivers and put you at risk for accidents on the road. The malfunctioning ignition switches, ignition cylinders, and other parts can cause these kinds of issues and fixing them soon is essential.

Sometimes, you could encounter more issues than an ignition switch that is jammed and require a complete replacement instead. In these cases 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, and then installing the new one to make it easier to insert the key and operate your car. This type of replacement can save your time and money compared to a completely new car, and will be a lot quicker than waiting for an auto shop to open at a time that works for you.

Damaged Locks

There are several common reasons why your car locks might be damaged. Some of these problems can be resolved by simple swapping of the key fob battery while others require a more meticulous repair to repair the mechanical component or electronic locking system.

Weather Damage

Extreme temperatures, exposure to sunlight and dust can all be major problems for locks. These environmental conditions can lead to corrosion, discoloration, and wear over time. This can result in the lock becoming no longer functioning. Regular inspections are essential to avoid this.

If you're having difficulty to insert or turn the key into the lock on your door It could be an indication that the mechanism is stuck. This is likely due to grime or dirt accumulation. You can solve this issue by using a moist cotton swab or qi-tip and spraying graphite or silicone spray on the lock.

Another reason why your door locks may be jammed is that the pins inside the cylinder are not aligned. The issue can be rectified by removing the lock and manually aligning the cylinder with the keyhole on the door. After the cylinder has been repositioned, the screws should be used to ensure it is secured.

The key itself may be damaged in some way. This can be caused by excessive force when turning the key or the key was cut incorrectly. If you suspect that this is the problem, use a spare key and check if there are no problems. The best way to repair any issues is to speak with a professional locksmith. These experts will conduct a thorough diagnostic to determine the cause of the problem and use specially designed tools to remove any debris or misalignment from the lock mechanism. key repair near me will replace the damaged pieces with new ones to restore the functionality. Locksmiths can also offer suggestions to safeguard your car lock from further damage. This can include weatherproof covers or shields that protect your lock from harsh elements.