The Top Car Lost Key Gurus Are Doing Three Things
How to Deal With a Lost Key in Your Car
It's a nightmare to lose your car keys. However, it's not the end of the world, provided you know what to do.
You can either bring in evidence of ownership or a spare key to the dealer to have a new one programmed. There are a few different ways to lose keys, which will determine how simple or difficult it is to replace them.
1. Keys That Are Worn Out
Over time, keys for cars are subjected to a lot of wear. They are often inserted into locks and pockets, then jiggled around and smacked against one another. This causes them to lose their shape, which could cause them to stop fitting into the ignition cylinder in a proper way. The key will either become stuck or not turn when this happens. Whatever the case, it could be extremely frustrating.
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 one. Additionally, if you do lose your car keys, you have an extra.
It is also possible to replace your key fob if it has stopped working properly. As you've guessed that they are extremely handy to have, and they can do a variety of jobs including unlocking your doors and launching your engine, to triggering the alarm. This can happen due to a variety of reasons, but the most common reason is it is because the button has worn out. They are small fragile and can be easily smashed in your bag or pocket. The buttons can easily be broken or worn down.
If this happens, the first thing you should do is check thoroughly in all the places it could be, including your jacket or bag and even in places you wouldn't normally store them (like inside a box for shoeshine). Next, contact your dealer to see if they have an extra key available. If not, they can purchase one for you and get it installed in your vehicle. It's not cheap but it's more efficient than the alternatives.
You can also lower the chance of this happening by avoiding adding any other items to your key ring and regularly lubricating your key and lock. This will help them last longer and work properly. Also, keep an extra in a secure location, such as with your family or close friends. This means that you will always have the key in case 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 may be a problem with the lock. The tumblers of the lock could be blocked by dirt and debris. This can cause the mechanism to feel stiff. Locksmiths can make use of an oiled tool to clean and lubricate a lock. This will make it feel more comfortable.
G28 Car Keys that won't turn may have been blocked by force. A burglar might have tried to open the door using a tool like a pick or a bump key. If you notice 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.
Some locksmiths offer a service that disables your old key inside the vehicle. This makes it harder for thieves to take your vehicle. You'll need proof of your identity and prove that you have ownership of the vehicle before the process can begin. Usually, a V5C that bears your name is accepted.
It's recommended to carry an extra key on your person or in the trunk of your vehicle, in case you lose yours. Having a spare will allow you to get back on the road quickly and avoid having to pay for locksmith.
You may have to call a professional locksmith to replace keys based on your vehicle. Dealerships can provide replacement keys, but they will require a towing fee and will likely need to get one from you, which can take days. A professional locksmith can typically produce a new key much faster and cheaper and might even be in a position to program it to your vehicle in a way that is automatic. They can also offer various additional services to help you keep your car secure including a door re-sealing kit or anti-theft alarms. Learn more about them by visiting PolicyBachat.
3. Clogged Ignition Cylinder
Over time, the ignition cylinder and key may wear out. A worn-out cylinder can block or become stuck when it is removed, inserted or turned, which may cause issues with starting and recharging your vehicle. These issues may develop slowly but they will become more apparent over time.
This issue is usually manifested by the inability of insert the key into the lock, or rotate the ignition cylinder. This is a sign that the cylinder is in need of being replaced. You could try replacing the cylinder yourself, but it is recommended to get it done by professionals.
The ignition cylinder is a small metal cylindrical piece that is housed within the lock housing of the cylinder. It has two tumblers. Each tumbler is assigned a particular position and only fits the key bumps that are correct. As time passes, tumblers can be worn out or blocked with dirt. To get rid of this, you will have to clean the cylinder port of the ignition. This can be done with the use of a small bottle of graphite oil. You can purchase this at your local auto parts store and follow the directions on the label.
Take off the dashboard and steering wheel covers from your vehicle. This will let you observe the cylinder port clear. Find a pin that is inserted into the cylinder's back. This is a security feature that protects your vehicle from being stolen. If the ignition cylinder will not turn, you will need remove the retention pin in order to allow it to slide out of the housing.
The process is straightforward enough but requires some patience. Be sure to check that the pin is in accessory position before drilling. It is also important to note that there is a possibility of damaging the car's electronic and electrical systems if you drill into the wrong place. Make sure you mark the portion of the drill that protrudes from the keyway prior to drilling. This acts as a warning to stop you from causing damage to the cylinder by drilling too deeply.
4. Locked Out
The first thing you need to do when you lock your keys inside your car is to not panic. You may 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 into your vehicle without breaking the window or calling the tow truck. You can use shoelaces packaging tape, bobbypins or Slim Jims to get into your vehicle. But, it's important to be aware that not every method will work, and you may need to contact a professional for help in certain instances.
It is essential to choose the least destructive option first. You might not like the idea of a stranger helping you unlock your car, but if you're in an emergency situation, it could be your best option. A lot of roadside assistance plans give their customers the option to enter their vehicle without having a car key.
Take a deep breath and then walk around your car's exterior to see if you have your keys in any other doors or in the trunk. When you're in a rush, it's easy to overlook something as basic as the door handle or the rearview mirror. Make sure you check everywhere.
If you're still unable to open your car keep your cool and seek help from a neighbor or friend that is nearby. Sometimes someone will be willing to assist you out of a bind because they don't want you to be left stranded. If they're not able to assist you, then you should take a look at calling roadside assistance, or seeing if your car insurance will cover it.
To avoid having a locked out key in the future, make sure you check the app provided by your car manufacturer or use a smart device convert your phone into a car key fob. You can also purchase a magnetic key safe to store your spare keys in, which will keep keys safe from thieves and hidden from.