How to Deal With a Lost Key in Your Car
It's an absolute nightmare to lose your car keys. However, it's not the end of the world provided you know what to do.
First, locate an extra key and store it in your safe place or bring proof of ownership to the dealer to have a replacement programmed. You can lose your keys in various ways, which will affect how easy or hard it is to replace them.
1. Keys that are worn out
Over time, car keys are subject to a lot of wear and wear and tear. They are frequently put into locks and pockets, jiggling around and smacked against one another. This causes them to lose their shape, which may cause them to stop fitting into the ignition cylinder properly. If this happens, the key could either become stuck or will not turn. It can be frustrating in both cases.
It's easy to avoid this by making multiple copies of your brand new car key. Then you can rotate them, reducing the amount of wear and tear each one goes through. You can also use the spare key if you have lost your car keys.
It is also possible to replace your key fob if it's stopped working properly. As you've probably guessed that they are extremely handy to have and they do many things, from unlocking your doors, and even starting your engine, to triggering the alarm. It can happen for many reasons, but the most common reason is it is because the button is worn out. They are tiny and delicate, often being jostled around in your bag or pocket and are able to be worn down or have buttons that break off.
If this occurs, the first thing to do is thoroughly check every place you might find it, including your jacket or bag and even the places you would not normally place them (like inside a box for shoeshine). Next, call your dealership to inquire if they've got an extra key in stock. If they don't have a spare key in stock, they can order it and pair it with your vehicle. This isn't cheap, but it's much better than the alternative.
You can lower the risk by not adding any other items to your key ring, and by regularly lubricating both your lock and key. This will make them both last longer and work properly. It's also an excellent idea to keep the spare key in a safe location such as with your family or friends, so you can always be prepared for the time you require 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 clogged by dirt and debris, which could make the mechanism feel stiff. Locksmiths can employ an oil-lubricated tool to clean and lubricate the lock. This will make it feel smoother.
Another possible reason a car lock doesn't turn is that it was forced to close. A burglar might have tried to pry open the door using a device such as the pick or bump key. If you notice evidence of this on the door handle, you should take the car to a locksmith as soon as possible. The locksmith can fix the damage and avoid future problems.
what to do if lost car keys offer services that disable your old key inside the 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 this can be done. Usually, a V5C with your name will be accepted.
It's recommended to keep an extra key on your person or in the trunk of your vehicle, in case you misplace your key. A spare key will allow you to get back on the road swiftly and also prevents you from having to pay for locksmith services.
You might need to contact a professional locksmith to replace keys based on your vehicle. Dealerships can provide you with a replacement key, but it may cost an additional towing fee and can take a few days to make. A professional locksmith can usually make a new key faster and cheaper, and may even be in a position to program it to your vehicle in a way that is automatic. They also provide a range of additional services that can help you keep your car safe including a door re-sealing kit or alarms that prevent theft. Visit PolicyBachat to learn more.
3. Clogged Ignition Cylinder
Over time, the ignition cylinder and key may wear out. A worn-out cylinder may jam or bind as it is removed, inserted or turned, which can cause issues with starting and recharging your vehicle. These issues can be gradual but will become more noticeable as time passes.
This problem is typically indicated by the inability to insert the key into the lock, or turn the ignition cylinder. This indicates that the cylinder needs to be replaced. You could try replacing the cylinder yourself, but it is recommended to have it done by an expert.
The ignition cylinder is a small metal cylindrical piece that is housed within the lock cylinder housing. It is comprised of two tumblers. Each tumbler is assigned a specific position that is only compatible with the key bumps that are appropriate. As time passes the tumblers will become worn down or clogged with dirt. To get rid of this issue, you'll have to clean the cylinder port of the ignition. You can do this using tiny bottles of graphite oil. You can purchase this at a local auto parts store and follow the instructions on the label.
First, take off the dashboard and steering wheel covers from your vehicle. This will allow you to have a clearer view of the cylinder port. Look for a pin which is inserted into the back of the cylinder. This is a security measure that protects your vehicle from being stolen. If the ignition cylinder does not rotate, you'll need to remove the pin that holds it in place to allow it to slide out of the housing.
The procedure is simple however, it takes patience. Make sure that the pin is in accessory position before drilling. It is also important to remember that there is a risk of causing damage to your car's electronics and electrical systems if you drill into the wrong spot. Make sure you mark the portion of the drill that is protruding from the keyway before drilling. This acts as a warning to stop you from drilling too deep and causing damage to the housing of the cylinder.
4. Locked Out
The first thing you need to do when you lock your keys in your car is not to panic. You might think you're in a huge mess, but it's essential to remain calm as there are a variety of solutions and methods you can get back into your vehicle without breaking the window or calling an emergency tow truck. You can make use of shoelaces, packaging tape, bobbypins or Slim Jims to get into your vehicle. However, it's important to keep in mind that not all methods will work, and you may need to call a professional for assistance in certain instances.
The most important thing is to take the most non-destructive approach first. If you're in a situation that requires immediate attention you might not be a fan of the idea of having someone else will be able to open your car for you, but it is your best option. A lot of roadside assistance plans give their customers the option to access their vehicle without the need for a car key.
Another excellent suggestion is to take deep breaths and walk around the exterior of your vehicle to see whether your keys are in any other door or in the trunk. When you're in a rush it's easy to forget something as simple as the door handle or the rearview mirror. Make sure you check everywhere.
If you're stuck in the process of unlocking your car, stay calm and call your neighbor or a friend who is nearby for assistance. A stranger may be willing to assist you should they not want to leave you stranded. If they're unable to help then you should contact roadside assistance. You may also inquire whether your insurance covers this.
Check the app of the manufacturer of your car or use your smart phone to turn your phone into a key fob so you can avoid having your key locked out in the future. You can also purchase a magnetic key safe to keep your keys in, which will keep them safe from thieves and out of view.