How to Deal With a Lost Key in Your Car
Losing your car keys can be an incredibly stressful situation. But it's not the end of the world, when you know what to do.
First, locate a spare key and keep it in your safe place or take proof of ownership to the dealership to get a new one programmed. Keys can be lost in various ways, which can affect the ease or difficulty it is to replace them.
1. Keys that are worn out
Over time, car keys are subjected to a lot of wear and tear. They are jingled around in pockets, rubbing against each others, and then put into locks repeatedly again. They can lose their form and no longer fit into the ignition cylinder. The key may become stuck or not turn if this happens. It can be a hassle in both instances.
It's simple to avoid this by creating multiple copies of your brand new car key. You can then rotate them to reduce the wear on each one. You can also utilize the spare key in the event that you have lost your car keys.
You might also have to replace your key fob in case it has been unable to function properly. As you've guessed, these are very handy to have and can perform various tasks, from unlocking your doors and 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 worn out. They are tiny delicate and are often tossed around in your purse or pocket. The buttons can easily be broken or worn down.
In this situation you must check all possible places like your bag, jacket and places you would not normally keep them (like in the shoe shine box). Contact your dealership and inquire if they have spare keys in stock. If they don't have one in stock, they can order it and then pair it with your vehicle. This process can be costly however it's far better than the alternative.
You can also reduce the risk of this happening by not adding any other things to your key ring, and regularly lubricating your key and lock. This will ensure that they both last longer and perform as they should. It is also recommended to keep the spare in a secure location, such as with your family or close friends. This way, you will always have the key in case you require it.
2. Damaged Lock
If you are able to turn the key but it's not able to fit inside 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. Locksmiths can make use of an oiled tool to clean and lubricate the lock. This will make it feel smoother.
Another reason why the lock on your car doesn't turn is because it was jammed by force. A burglar might have attempted to open the door by using a device such as an axe or a bump key. If replace lost car key notice any evidence of this on the door handle, you should take your car to an experienced locksmith as quickly as you can. The locksmith can fix the issue and prevent future problems.
Some locksmiths offer a service that disables your old key inside your vehicle. This makes it much more difficult for thieves to take your vehicle. You'll need proof of your identity as well as proof that you own the vehicle before you can do this. A V5C form that has your name on it will typically be accepted.
It is recommended 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 back on the road quickly and also prevents you from having to spend money on a locksmith.
Depending on the type of vehicle and the key, you may need to contact a locksmith to repair it. Dealerships can provide you with a replacement key, but it could cost a towing fee and take a few days to make. A professional locksmith can create a key in a shorter time and cheaper. They may even be able to program it to communicate with your vehicle on autopilot. They also offer a range of services to ensure your vehicle is secure, including an resealing kit for doors and alarms that prevent theft. Visit PolicyBachat to find out more about the services they offer.
3. Clogged ignition Cylinder
Over time your ignition key and cylinder can wear out. A worn-out cylinder can be stuck or jam when it is removed, inserted or turned, which could cause issues with starting and powering up your car. These issues can be gradual but they will become more apparent as time passes.
One of the most frequent symptoms of this issue is when the key cannot be inserted into the lock or is incapable of rotating in the ignition cylinder. This is a clear indication that the cylinder has damaged and requires replacement. It is possible to replace the cylinder on your own however it is generally recommended to hire an expert.
The ignition cylinder is a small cylindrical piece of metal that is located within the lock housing for the cylinder. It contains two tumblers. Each tumbler is assigned a particular position that is only compatible with the key bumps that are appropriate. Over time, tumblers may become worn or clogged up with dirt. To resolve 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 at your local auto parts store. Follow the instructions on the bottle.
Take off the dashboard and steering wheel covers from your car. This will give you an easier view of the cylinder port. Look for a pin which is inserted into the cylinder's back. This is a security feature that keeps your vehicle from being stolen. If the ignition cylinder will not turn, you will need to remove the retention pin in order to allow it to slide out of the housing.
The procedure is simple but it requires patience. Before drilling the pin, ensure that the pin is in the accessory position. It is also important to keep in mind that there is a possibility of damaging your vehicle's electronics and electrical systems by drilling into the wrong spot. Before drilling, be certain to mark the part of the drill bit that is protruding out of the keyway with tape. This will act as a warning sign to keep you from damaging the cylinder drilling too deeply.
4. Locked Out
If you've accidentally locked your keys inside your vehicle, the first thing to do is try not to get scared. You might think that you're in a huge mess, but it's crucial to remain calm as there are plenty of options and methods that you can get back in your vehicle without damaging the window or calling the tow truck. You can make use of shoelaces, packaging tape, bobbypins or Slim Jims to get into your vehicle. However, it's important be aware that not all methods can be successful and you might need to contact a professional for help in some cases.
It is crucial to choose the least destructive option first. You may not like the idea of a stranger helping you open your car, but in an emergency situation, it may be the best option. Many roadside assistance plans offer members the ability to open their car without having a car key.
Take a deep breath, and then go around the outside of your car to see if you have your keys in any other doors or the trunk. It's easy to lose even the simplest things like the handle on a door or rearview mirror when you're in a hurry, so be sure to check everywhere.
If you're still not able to unlock your car, be calm and call your neighbor or a friend who is nearby to help. A stranger might be able to assist you if they don't wish to leave you in a bind. If they're not able to assist you, then you should take a look at calling roadside assistance, or seeing if your car insurance covers it.
To avoid having a locked out key in the future, be sure you are checking the app provided by your car manufacturer or utilize a smart device to turn your phone into a car key fob. You can also buy an electronic key safe to keep your keys in the safe, keeping keys safe from thieves and out of view.