10 Healthy Car Lost Key Habits
How to Deal With a Lost Key in Your Car
Losing car keys is an incredibly stressful situation. However, it's not the end of the world, if you know what to do.
The first step is to locate a spare key and put it in a safe place, or bring proof of ownership to the dealer to have a new one programmed. You can lose your keys in a variety of ways, which will impact the ease or difficulty it is to replace them.
1. Key Worn Out
Over time, keys to cars get a lot of wear. They are repeatedly put into locks and pockets, then jiggled around and smacked against one another. This can cause them to lose their shape, which may result in them not fitting into the ignition cylinder correctly. If this happens, the key could be stuck or won't turn. It can be a hassle in both instances.
It's a good thing that you can avoid this from happening by creating additional copies of your car key when it is new. You can then rotate them to lessen the wear on each. Additionally, if you lose your car keys, there's another spare.
It is also possible to replace your key fob in case it has been unable to function properly. As you've probably guessed, these are very handy to have and they do a variety of jobs, from unlocking your doors and launching your engine to activating the alarm. This could be due to a few reasons however the most common is that they've damaged from 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 occurs, the first thing you need to do is thoroughly check every place it could be, including your jacket or bag and even in places you wouldn't normally store them (like in a shoebox). Contact car keys lost no spare and inquire whether they have spare keys in stock. If not, they can order one for you and then have it installed in your vehicle. This can be expensive, but it's much better than the alternative.
You can lower the risk by not putting any other items to your key ring and also by regularly lubricating your lock and key. This will make them both last longer and work properly. You should also keep a spare in a safe location, such as with your family or close friends. This means that you will always have the key at hand when you require it.
2. Damaged Lock
If you can turn the key, but it doesn't fit in the lock, there may be an issue with the lock. The tumblers of the lock could be clogged with dirt and debris, which can make the mechanism feel stiff. Locksmiths can make use of a special tool to clean and lubricate the lock, making it to feel more smooth.
Another possible reason that a car lock won't turn is because it was forced to close. A burglar might have tried to pry open the door by using a tool like the pick or bump key. If you see evidence of this on your door handle, you should bring your vehicle to a locksmith as soon as possible. The locksmith can repair the damage and prevent future problems.
Certain locksmiths offer the option of disabling your old key inside your vehicle. This makes it much more difficult for someone to steal your vehicle. You'll need to provide proof of your identity and prove that you own the vehicle before the process can begin. Usually, a V5C bearing your name will be accepted.
It's also a good idea to carry a spare key on your person or in the trunk of your vehicle, in case you misplace yours. A spare key can allow you to get to the road more quickly and can save you money by preventing you from having to call locksmith.
You may need to call a professional locksmith to replace the key based on the car. Dealerships will give you a replacement key, but it may cost an additional towing fee and can require several days to get. A professional locksmith will typically produce a new key much faster and cheaper and might even be in a position to program it to your vehicle on autopilot. They also offer various services to ensure your vehicle is safe, including an resealing kit for doors and alarms that prevent theft. Visit PolicyBachat to find out more.
3. Clogged Ignition Cylinder
Over time the ignition cylinder as well as key will wear out. A worn-out cylinder may jam or bind as it is inserted, removed or turned, which may cause problems starting and powering up your car. These issues can be gradual but they will become more apparent as time passes.
This issue is usually caused by the inability to insert the key into the lock, or turn the ignition cylinder. This is a sign the cylinder is in need of being replaced. It is possible to replace the cylinder yourself however, it's generally better to get an expert.
The ignition cylinder consists of a small, cylindrical piece of metal which is contained within the lock housing of the cylinder. It has two tumblers. Each tumbler is assigned a specific location that is suited to the key bumps that are appropriate. In time, tumblers could become worn or clogged up with dirt. To fix this problem you'll need to clean the ignition port. This can be accomplished with a small bottle of graphite lubricant. You can purchase it at a local auto parts store and follow the directions on the label.
Remove the dashboard and steering wheel covers from your car. This will let you see the cylinder port more clearly. Find a pin into the back of the cylinder. This is a security measure that protects your vehicle from being taken. If the ignition cylinder does not rotate, you'll have to remove the retention pin to allow it to slide out of the housing.
The process is simple enough but requires some patience. Be sure to check that the pin is in accessory position before drilling. You could also cause damage to your car's electrical or electronic systems by drilling in the wrong spot. Note the part of the drill that extends from the keyway prior to drilling. This will serve as a warning to stop you from damaging the cylinder by drilling too deeply.
4. Locked Out
The first thing to do when you lock your keys in your car is not to panic. You might think that you're in a mess, but it's essential to remain calm as there are a variety of solutions and ways that you can get back in your vehicle without damaging the window or calling a tow truck. You can use shoelaces, packaging tape, bobbypins or Slim Jims to get into your vehicle. However, it's important keep in mind that not every method can be successful and you may need to call an expert for assistance in certain instances.
It is crucial to choose the least destructive option first. If you are in a situation that requires immediate attention, you may not like the idea that someone else will be able to open your vehicle for you, but it's the best option. It's also worth noting that many roadside assistance plans, like the NRMA offers members the option of entering their vehicle without a key.
Another excellent tip is to take deep breaths and walk around the exterior of your car to determine whether your keys are located in any other door or in the trunk. If you're in a rush it's easy to forget something as simple as the door handle or the rearview mirror. Be sure to check everywhere.
If you're still not able to unlock your car, stay calm and call a neighbor or friend who's nearby for help. Most of the time, a stranger is willing to help you out of a bind because they don't want you to be in a bind. If they're not able to help and you are stuck, it is best to contact roadside assistance. You may also inquire whether your insurance covers this.
Check the app of the car's manufacturer, or use an android phone to convert your phone into a key fob in order to keep your keys from being locked out in the future. You can also purchase a magnetic key safe to keep your keys in the safe, which will keep them safe from thieves and out of sight.