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 handle it.
First, find a spare key and keep it in a safe place or take evidence of ownership to the dealer to have a new one programmed. You can lose your keys in different ways, which will affect the ease or difficulty it is to replace them.
1. Keys that are worn out
Over time, keys to cars get a lot of wear. They are repeatedly inserted into locks and pockets, jiggling around and smacked against one another. They may lose their shape and won't fit into the ignition cylinder. If this happens, the key will either get stuck or it won't turn. Whatever the case, it could be extremely difficult.
It's easy to avoid this by making multiple copies of your new car key. Then you can rotate them, reducing the amount of wear and tear each one goes through. In addition, if you lose your car keys, there's a spare to use.
Another reason you might need a replacement is that the key fob you have is not functioning properly. They are extremely useful and can do many things, including unlocking doors, launching the engine, and triggering your alarm. It can happen for many reasons, but most often it is because the button has been worn out. They are small delicate and are often tossed around in your purse or pocket. The buttons could easily be broken or worn down.
If this happens, the first thing you should do is to thoroughly examine all the places it could be, including your bag or jacket and even places where you wouldn't normally put them (like inside a shoeshine box). Next, call your dealership to see if they have an extra key available. If not, they'll make one for you and have it installed in your vehicle. It's not cheap however it's better than the alternative.
You can lower the risk by not putting 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 recommended to keep the spare key in a safe location in your home, such as with family or with your friends, so you can always be prepared for the time you require it.
2. Damaged Lock
If you can turn the key, but it doesn't fit in the lock, it could be an issue with the lock. The tumblers in the lock may be clogged by dirt and debris, which can make the mechanism feel stiff. A locksmith can use an oiled tool to clean and lubricate the lock. This will allow it to feel more smooth.
A car lock that doesn't turn might have been jammed by force. Someone may have attempted to the door open using a tool, such as the pick or bump key. If you see evidence of this on your door handle, take the car to a locksmith right away. The locksmith can fix the damage and avoid future issues.
Some locksmiths can offer a service that disables your old key inside the vehicle, making it much more difficult for someone to take your car. You will need to provide proof of your identity as well as proof that you own the vehicle before the process can begin. Usually, a V5C that bears your name will be accepted.
You should also keep a spare car key in your trunk or on your person in case you lose it. Having a spare can help you get back on the road in a hurry and avoid having to spend money on locksmith services.
Depending on lost my car key of car and key, you may have to contact a locksmith to repair it. Dealerships are able to provide replacement keys, however they'll need a towing cost and you may have to purchase one for you, which can take days. A professional locksmith will typically produce a new key much more quickly and at a lower cost and could be able to program it to your vehicle automatically. They can also provide various services to ensure your vehicle is safe, including the door seal kit and alarms that prevent theft. Visit PolicyBachat to learn more.
3. Clogged Ignition Cylinder
Over time the ignition cylinder and key can wear out. A worn-out cylinder may be stuck or jam when it is removed, inserted or turned, which can cause problems starting and powering up your car. These problems can develop slowly but they will become more apparent as time passes.
This problem is most often manifested by the inability of insert the key into the lock, or rotate the ignition cylinder. This is a clear sign that your cylinder has gotten worn out and requires replacement. It is possible to replace the cylinder yourself, but it's usually best to get an expert.
The ignition cylinder is a small metal cylindrical part that is situated within the lock cylinder housing and has two tumblers. Each tumbler has a specific position and only fits the correct key bumps. As time passes, tumblers can be worn out or blocked with dirt. To resolve this issue it is necessary to clean the ignition port. This can be done with the use of a small bottle of graphite lubricant. You can buy this at a local auto parts store and follow the instructions on the label.
Remove the dashboard and steering wheel covers from your car. This will allow you to have an easier view of the port for the cylinder. Look for a pin which is inserted into the back of the cylinder. This is a security feature that keeps your vehicle from being stolen. If the ignition cylinder doesn't turn, you'll have to take off the retention pin to let it slide out of the housing.
The procedure is simple however, it takes 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 chance of damaging your vehicle's electronics and electrical systems by drilling into the wrong place. Make sure you mark the portion of the drill that extends from the keyway prior to drilling. This acts as a warning to stop you from causing damage to the cylinder by drilling too deeply.
4. Locked Out
If you've accidentally locked the keys to your vehicle, the first thing to do is not to panic. You might think you're in a mess, but it's crucial to remain calm as there are many solutions and methods you can get back into your vehicle without damaging the window or calling an emergency tow truck. Whether it's using shoelaces, bobby pins, packaging tape Slim Jims, or modified coat hangers made of wire Most of these strategies will work with the correct tool or trick. However, it's important to keep in mind that not all methods will work and that you may need to contact a professional for assistance in certain instances.
It is essential to select the least damaging option first. You may not like the idea of a stranger helping you get into your car, however when you're in a crisis situation, it might be the best option. It's also worth noting that many roadside assistance plans, including the NRMA offers members the option of entering their vehicle without keys.
Another tip is to take an inhale and walk around the entire exterior of your vehicle to see if your keys are inside any other door or in the trunk. When you're in a hurry, it's easy to overlook something as basic as the door handle or rearview mirror. Be sure to check everywhere.
If you're unable to open your car keep your cool and seek help from a family member or friend that is nearby. A stranger might be able to assist you should they not want to leave you stranded. If they're not able help you, you must take a look at calling roadside assistance, or checking if your car insurance covers it.
To avoid having a locked out key in the future, make sure you check the app of your car's manufacturer or use a smart device transform your phone into a car key fob. You can also buy a key safe that is magnetic to keep your keys in the safe, which will keep them away from thieves and hidden from.