How to Deal With a Lost Key in Your Car
Losing your car keys can be a nightmare scenario. However, it's not the end of the world, if you know what to do.
You can either bring proof of ownership or bring in a spare key to the dealer to have a new one programmed. There are several ways you can lose keys, which will determine how simple or difficult it is to replace them.
1. Keys that are worn out
Over time, car keys are exposed to a lot wear and wear and tear. They are jingled around in pockets, rubbing against one others, and then put into locks repeatedly again. They can lose their shape and no longer fit into the ignition cylinder. If this happens, the key could be stuck or will not turn. It can be a hassle in both instances.
It's easy to avoid this by making multiple copies of your new car key. You can then rotate them to lessen the wear on each. Additionally, if you lose your car keys, you have a spare to use.
Another reason why you may require a replacement is that your key fob isn't functioning properly. They are extremely useful and can be used for a variety of things, including unlocking doors, starting the engine, and triggering your alarm. It can happen due to several reasons but the most frequent is that they've damaged from use. They are small and delicate, usually being tossed around in your pocket or bag and can easily be snatched down or have buttons that break off.
If this happens the first thing you should do is thoroughly check all places that it could be, including your bag or jacket and even in places you wouldn't normally store them (like in a shoebox). Call your dealership and ask if they have spare keys available. If they don't have one in stock, they can order it and attach it to your vehicle. It's expensive however it's better than the alternative.
Highly recommended Website can reduce the risk by avoiding adding any other items to your key ring and also by regularly lubricating your lock and the key. This will ensure that both last longer and perform as they should. Also, keep an extra in a secure place, such as with family or friends. This means that you will always have the key in case you require it.
2. Damaged Lock
If the key fits inside the lock, but you are unable to turn it, it could be an issue with the lock itself. The tumblers of the lock could be clogged by dirt and debris, which could make the mechanism feel stiff. Locksmiths can make use of an oil-based tool to clean and lubricate a lock. This will make it feel smoother.
Another reason why the lock on your car doesn't turn is that it was forced to close. A thief may have tried to pry open the door using a tool like the pick or bump key. If you see evidence of this on your door handle, you should take the car to a locksmith as soon as possible. lost car key can fix the damage and prevent further problems.
Some locksmiths provide services that disable your old keys inside your vehicle. This makes it more difficult for someone to steal your vehicle. But, you'll require proof of identity and evidence that you are the owner of the vehicle in order to have this done. A V5C form with your name on it will usually be accepted.
It's also a good idea to keep an extra key on your person or in the trunk of your car in case you lose yours. Having a spare can help you get back on the road in a hurry and also prevents you from needing to pay for locksmith services.
You might need to contact a professional locksmith to replace keys based on your vehicle. Dealerships can supply keys for replacement, but they'll need a towing cost and you may have to order one for you, which can take a few days. A professional locksmith can usually make a new key faster and cheaper and could be in a position to program it to your vehicle automatically. They can also provide a range of services to ensure your vehicle is safe, such as the door seal kit and alarms against 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 could jam or bind as it is inserted, removed or turned, which can cause problems starting and recharging your vehicle. It is typical for these issues to develop slowly and then become more noticeable over time as the cylinder wears out.
This problem is typically caused by the inability to insert the key into the lock or rotate the ignition cylinder. This is a clear indication that the cylinder is damaged and requires replacement. You could try replacing the cylinder by yourself, however it is usually better to get it done by an expert.
The ignition cylinder consists of a small cylindrical piece of metal that is housed inside the lock cylinder housing. It is comprised of two tumblers. Each tumbler is assigned a specific location that is suited to the correct key bumps. As time passes, tumblers can be worn out or blocked with dirt. To fix this problem, you'll need to clean the ignition port. You can do this using the smallest bottle of graphite lubricant. You can purchase it at a local auto parts store and follow the directions on the label.
The first step is to remove the dashboard and steering wheel covers from your vehicle. This will provide you with more clarity of the port on the cylinder. Find a pin that is placed in the back of the cylinder. This is a safety feature that protects your vehicle from being stolen. If the ignition cylinder does not turn, you'll need to remove the retention pin to allow it to slide out of the housing.
The procedure is simple but it requires patience. Make sure the pin is in accessory position prior to drilling. It is also important to remember that there is a risk of damaging your car's electronics and electrical systems by drilling in the wrong location. Mark the part of the drill that extends from the keyway prior to drilling. This acts as an indicator to prevent you from damaging the cylinder by drilling too deeply.
4. Locked out
The first thing you should do when you lock your keys in your car is to not panic. Be calm. You might think you are in a mess, but there are many ways to get back in your car without breaking the windows or calling a tow truck. You can use shoelaces, bobbypins, packaging tape or Slim Jims to get back into your vehicle. But, it's important to be aware that not all methods will work, and you might need to contact an expert for assistance in some cases.
The key is to always try the least destructive solution first. If you are in a situation that requires immediate attention, you may not like the idea of having someone else will be able to open your car for you, but it is the best option. It's worth noting that a lot of roadside assistance plans, like the NRMA provide members with the option of accessing their vehicle without having a key.
Relax, and then go around the outside of your car to determine if you've got your keys in any other doors or the trunk. When you're in a hurry it's easy to miss something as simple as the door handle or the rearview mirror. Be sure to check everywhere.
If you're unable to open your car Try to remain calm and seek help from a family member or friend who is near. A stranger might be able to help you should they not want to leave you in a bind. If they're unable to help you, you must consider calling roadside assistance or seeing if your car insurance will cover it.
Check the app of your car's manufacturer or use a smart phone to convert your phone into a key fob so you can avoid having your key locked out in the future. You can also buy an electronic key safe to keep your keys in, which will keep them away from thieves and out of sight.