How to Deal With a Lost Key in Your Car
It's a nightmare to lose your car keys. It's not the most stressful thing in the world if you know how to deal with it.
You can bring proof of ownership or bring in 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 easy or difficult it is to replace them.
1. Key Worn Out
Over time, keys for cars get a lot of wear. They are often jingled in pockets, rubbing against each other, and inserted into locks repeatedly again. This causes them to lose their shape, which could cause them to stop fitting into the ignition cylinder correctly. The key may become stuck or not turn if this happens. Either way, it can be extremely difficult.
Luckily, it's easy to stop this from happening by creating additional copies of your car key when it's new. You can then rotate them in order to reduce the wear on each. Plus, if you ever lose your car keys, you have another spare.
You might also have to replace your key fob if it has been unable to function properly. As you've probably guessed, these are very handy to have, and they can do many things including unlocking your doors, and even starting your engine, to triggering the alarm. It can happen for a variety of reasons, but most commonly it is due to the button has been worn out. They are small fragile and can be easily smashed in your purse or pocket. The buttons are prone to be broken or worn down.
If this happens, the first thing you need to do is thoroughly check every place it could be, such as your bag or jacket and even the places you would not normally place them (like inside a shoeshine box). Next, call your dealership to find out if they have a spare key in stock. If they don't have a spare key in the store, they can purchase it and then pair it with your vehicle. This process can be costly but it's a lot better than the alternative.
You can lower the risk by avoiding adding any other items to your key ring, and by regularly lubricating both your lock and key. This will help them last longer and work properly. It's also a good idea to keep a spare key in a safe location in your home, such as with family or friends, so that you'll be prepared for the time you require it.
2. Damaged Lock
If you can turn the key, but it isn't able to fit into the lock, there could be an issue with the lock. The tumblers in the lock may be clogged with dirt and debris, which can make the mechanism feel stiff. A locksmith can use an oil-based tool to clean and lubricate the lock. This will make it feel smoother.
A car lock that doesn't turn may have been blocked by force. A burglar 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, take the car to a locksmith as soon as possible. The locksmith can repair the damage and avoid future issues.
Certain locksmiths may offer a service that disables your old keys in the vehicle, making it harder for thieves to steal your car. You'll need proof of your identity as well as proof that you have ownership of the vehicle before you can do this. Usually, a V5C that bears your name is accepted.
It is also advisable to keep a spare car key in your trunk or on your person in case you lose it. A spare key can allow you to get on the road faster and save your money by preventing you from having to call locksmith.
Depending on the type of vehicle and the key, you might need to contact a locksmith in order to get a new key. Dealerships can supply replacement keys, but they will require a towing fee and you may have to order one for you, which could take a few days. A professional locksmith will be able to produce a key much quicker and cheaper. They might even be able program it to connect to your vehicle automatically. They can also provide various services to keep your vehicle safe, including the door seal kit and alarms against theft. Visit PolicyBachat to learn more about the services they offer.
3. Clogged Ignition Cylinder
Over time, the ignition cylinder and key will wear out. A worn out cylinder may block or become stuck when it is removed, inserted or turned, which could cause problems with powering on and starting your vehicle. These problems can develop slowly but they will become more apparent as time passes.
This issue is usually indicated by the inability to insert the key into the lock or turn the ignition cylinder. This is a sign the cylinder must be replaced. It is possible to replace the cylinder on your own however it is generally recommended to hire an expert.
lost keys for my car is a small metal cylindrical piece that is situated inside the lock cylinder housing and contains a pair of tumblers. Each tumbler has a specific position and can only fit the correct key bumps. Over time the tumblers may be worn out or blocked with dirt. To get rid of this issue, you'll need to clean the ignition port. This can be done using a small bottle graphite lubricant. You can buy this product from your local auto parts store. Follow the instructions on the bottle.
The first step is to remove the dashboard and steering wheel covers from your vehicle. This will let you observe the cylinder port clearly. Find a pin that is placed in the back of the cylinder. This is a security feature that stops your vehicle from being taken. If the ignition cylinder does not turn, you will need to remove the retention pin in order to allow it to slide out of the housing.
The process is easy, but it requires patience. Before drilling the pin, ensure that the pin is in the accessory position. It is also possible to 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 that is protruding from the keyway with tape. This will act as a warning to stop you from damaging the cylinder by drilling too deeply.
4. Locked out
If you've locked your keys inside your car, the first step is to try not to be in a panic. You might think that you're in a big mess, but it's important to stay calm because there are many solutions and ways that you can get back in your vehicle without breaking the window or calling a tow truck. It doesn't matter if you're using shoelaces packaging tape, bobby pins, Slim Jims or modified coat hangers made of wire The majority of these options will work if you have the correct tool or trick. It is important to keep in mind that there are many different methods that be effective, and you may require help from a professional in some instances.
The key is to look for the least destructive solution first. If you're in an emergency, you may not like the idea that someone else will let you into their car for you, but it is the best choice. It's worth noting that a lot of roadside assistance plans, such as the NRMA offers members the option of getting into their vehicle without having a key.
Take a deep breath and then take a walk around the exterior of your car to see if you have your keys in any of the doors or in the trunk. It's easy to lose something as simple as a door handle or a rearview mirror when you're in a hurry, so be sure to check everywhere.
If you're still struggling to open your car Try to remain calm and seek help from a friend or neighbor that is nearby. Most of the time someone will be willing to assist you out of a jam since they don't want you to be in a bind. If they're not able help you, you must consider calling roadside assistance or checking if your car insurance covers it.
To avoid having a locked out key in the future, make sure you are checking your car manufacturer's app or utilize a smart device to turn your phone into a key fob. You can also purchase an electronic key safe to store your spare keys in the safe, which will keep them safe from thieves and hidden from.