How to Deal With a Lost Key in Your Car
It's a nightmare to lose your car keys. It's not the worst thing in the world when you know how to deal with it.
You can either bring proof of ownership or a spare key to the dealer in order to get a new one programmed. There are a few different ways you can lose keys, which will determine how simple or difficult it is to replace them.
1. Key Worn Out
Over time, keys to cars get to a lot of wear. They are frequently inserted into locks, jingled around in pockets and smacked against one another. This can cause them to lose their shape, which can lead to them no longer fitting into the ignition cylinder properly. If this occurs, the key will either become stuck or will not turn. It can be frustrating in both cases.
Fortunately, it's simple to avoid this from happening by creating additional copies of your car key once it's brand new. Then you can rotate them, reducing the amount of wear and tear each one experiences. You can also utilize the spare key in the event that you lose your car keys.
Another reason you might need a replacement is that your key fob isn't working properly. As you've guessed that they are extremely handy to have, and they can do a variety of jobs, from unlocking your doors and starting your engine, to triggering the alarm. It can happen for a variety of reasons, but most often it is because the button has been worn out. They are small delicate and are often tossed around in your bag or pocket. The buttons are prone to be broken or worn down.
If this occurs, the first thing you need to do is thoroughly check all places that it could be, such as your bag or jacket, and even places where you wouldn't normally put them (like inside a shoeshine box). Next, contact your dealer to see if they have an extra key available. If not, they can make one for you and then have it paired with your vehicle. It can be expensive but it's more efficient than the alternatives.
You can also reduce the chance of this happening by avoiding adding anything else to your key ring and regularly lubricating your key and lock. This will ensure that they both last longer and work properly. You should also keep a spare in a safe place, such as with your family or close friends. This ensures that you always have the key in case you need it.
2. Damaged Lock
If you are able to turn the key, but it doesn't fit in the lock, there could be an issue with the lock. The lock tumblers could be blocked by dirt and debris, which can make the mechanism feel stiff. Locksmiths can make use of a specific tool to clean out and lubricate the lock, making it feel smooth once more.
A car lock that isn't able to turn might have been jammed by force. A thief might have used a tool, such as bump keys or a pick to pry the door open. If you see evidence of this on the door handle, bring your vehicle to a locksmith right away. The locksmith will be able to repair the damage and prevent further problems.
Some locksmiths offer a service that disables your old key inside the vehicle. This makes it more difficult for thieves to take your vehicle. But, you'll need proof of identity and proof that you're the owner of the vehicle to be able to avail this service. A V5C form with your name on it is likely to be accepted.
It is also advisable to keep a spare car key in your trunk or on your person in the event that you lose it. A spare key can allow you to get on the road faster and also save you money by preventing you from needing to call locksmith.
You might need to contact an expert locksmith to replace keys based on your vehicle. Dealerships will provide you with keys to replace, however it could cost towing fees and take a few days to make. A professional locksmith can create a key in a shorter time and at a lower cost. They may even be able program it to work with your vehicle automatically. They can also offer a range of additional services that can help you keep your car safe, such as an re-sealing kit for doors or alarms to prevent theft. Find out more by visiting PolicyBachat.
3. Clogged Ignition Cylinder
Over time the ignition cylinder as well as key can wear out. A worn-out cylinder could be stuck or jammed when it is inserted, removed, or turned, which could cause problems with the powering-on and starting of your vehicle. It is common for these problems to develop slowly and become more pronounced over time as the cylinder wears out.
One of the most frequent signs of this problem is when the lock key cannot be put into the lock or is incapable of rotating in the cylinder for ignition. This is a clear sign that the cylinder is worn out and requires replacement. You can attempt to replace the cylinder on your own, but it is generally better to have this done by an expert.
lost key for car consists of a small metal cylindrical piece that is housed inside the lock housing of the cylinder. It is comprised of two tumblers. Each tumbler is assigned a particular position that only fits the key bumps that are appropriate. As time passes, tumblers can become worn or clogged up with dirt. To get rid of this issue it is necessary to clean the ignition port. This can be accomplished with the use of a small bottle of graphite lubricant. You can purchase it at a local auto parts store and follow the directions on the label.
First, take off the dashboard and steering wheel covers from your vehicle. This will let you view the cylinder port more clear. Look for a pin which is put into the cylinder's back. This is a security measure that stops your vehicle from being stolen. If the ignition cylinder does not turn, then you will need to remove the pin that holds it in place to let it slide out of the housing.
The process is easy however, it takes patience. Before drilling the pin, ensure that the pin is in the accessory position. It is also possible to cause damage to your car's electrical or electronic systems when you drill in the wrong spot. Before drilling, be sure to mark the portion of the drill bit that is protruding from the keyway using tape. This acts as a signal to prevent you from drilling too deep and causing damage to the cylinder housing.
4. Locked out
The first thing to do when you lock your keys in your vehicle is to not get scared. You might think you're in a big mess, but it's important to remain calm as there are plenty of solutions and methods you can get back into your vehicle without damaging the window or calling a tow truck. If you're using shoelaces, bobby pins, packaging tape, Slim Jims or modified wire coat hangers The majority of these options will work if you have the right tool or trick. It is important to keep in mind that not all methods work, and you might require assistance from a professional in certain cases.
It is essential to choose the least destructive option first. If you're in a situation that requires immediate attention you might not be a fan of the idea that a stranger will open your vehicle for you, but it's the best option. A lot of roadside assistance plans give their customers the option to open their car without the need for a car key.
Another idea is to take deep breaths and walk around the entire exterior of your car to check whether your keys are in any other door or in the trunk. It's easy for you to forget something as simple as the handle on a door or rearview mirror when you're in a rush So, make sure you be sure to check everywhere.
If you're unable to unlock your car, stay calm and contact an acquaintance or a neighbor who is nearby to help. Most of the time strangers will be willing to assist you to get out of the jam since they don't want you to be left in a bind. If they're not able to assist you, then consider calling roadside assistance or checking if your car insurance will cover it.
Check the app of the car's manufacturer, or use an android phone to convert your phone into a key fob so you can ensure that your key is not locked out in the future. You can also purchase an electronic keysafe to keep keys you have left over, which will keep them out of the way and away from thieves.