How to Deal With a Lost Key in Your Car
It's an absolute nightmare to lose your car keys. It's not the most stressful scenario If you know how to handle it.
First, locate a spare key and keep it in a safe place or take proof of ownership to the dealership to have a replacement programmed. Keys can get lost in various ways, which will impact the ease or difficulty it is to replace them.
1. Keys That Are Worn Out
Over time, keys for automobiles are subjected to to a lot of wear. They are frequently inserted into locks and pockets, then jiggled around and smacked against one another. They can lose their form and won't fit into the ignition cylinder. If this happens, the key could either get stuck or it will not turn. Whatever the case, it could be extremely difficult.
Fortunately, it's simple to stop this from happening by creating additional copies of your car key once it's brand new. Then you can rotate them to reduce the amount of wear each one goes through. You can also make use of the spare key in case you have lost your car keys.
You might also have to replace your key fob if it's stopped working properly. As you've probably guessed they are extremely useful to have, and they can do many things such as unlocking your doors and launching your engine, to triggering the alarm. This could be due to several reasons, but the most common is that it's just worn out from regular use. They are tiny and delicate, usually being tossed around in your pocket or bag and can be easily worn down or have buttons ripped off.
If this happens, the first thing you need to do is check thoroughly in every place you might find it, including your bag or jacket and even places where you wouldn't normally put them (like in a shoebox). Next, contact your dealer to inquire if they've got a spare key in stock. If they don't have a spare key in inventory, they can request it and attach it to your vehicle. This can be expensive but it's a lot better than the alternative.
You can minimize the risk by avoiding adding any other items to your key ring and also by regularly lubricating your lock and key. This will help them last longer and perform as they should. Also, keep the spare in a secure place, such as with your family or close friends. This way, you will always have the key when you need it.
2. Damaged Lock
If you are able to turn the key, but it's not able to fit inside the lock, it could be a problem with the lock. The tumblers in the lock may be clogged by dirt and debris, which could make the mechanism feel stiff. A locksmith can use an instrument that is specifically designed to clean out and lubricate the lock, helping it to feel more smooth.
A car lock that doesn't turn may have been blocked by force. A thief might have used a tool, such as a bump key or a pick to pry the door open. If you find evidence of this on the door handle, you should take your car to a professional locksmith as soon as you can. The locksmith can repair the damage and avoid future problems.
Certain locksmiths offer the option of disabling your old keys inside your vehicle. This makes it much more difficult for thieves to take your vehicle. You'll need proof of your identity and that you own the vehicle before this can be 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 misplace your key. A spare key can allow you to get on the road faster and save you money by preventing from having to call a locksmith.
Based on the type of vehicle and the key, you may have to call a locksmith to repair it. Dealerships can supply keys for replacement, but they'll need a towing cost and you may have to purchase one for you, which could take a few days. A professional locksmith can usually make a new key more quickly and at a lower cost and could be in a position to program it to your vehicle automatically. They also offer a range of services to keep your vehicle safe, including an resealing kit for doors and anti-theft alarms. Visit PolicyBachat to learn more about the services they offer.
3. Clogged Ignition Cylinder
Over time your key and ignition cylinder can wear out. A worn-out cylinder could be stuck or jam when it is removed, inserted or turned, which could cause problems with starting and powering up your vehicle. replacing lost car keys may develop slowly, but become more noticeable as time passes.
This problem is typically indicated by the inability to insert the key into the lock, or rotate the ignition cylinder. This indicates that the cylinder needs to be replaced. You can attempt to replace the cylinder yourself, but it is recommended to have it done by a professional.
The ignition cylinder is a small metal cylindrical piece which is contained inside the lock housing of the cylinder. It has two tumblers. Each tumbler is assigned a specific position that only fits the appropriate key bumps. As time passes, tumblers can get worn out or clogged with dirt. In order to fix this issue, you'll need to clean the cylinder port of the ignition. This can be done using tiny bottles of graphite lubricant. You can purchase it at a local auto parts store and follow the instructions on the label.
First, remove the dashboard and steering wheel covers from your vehicle. This will allow you to observe the cylinder port clear. Look for a pin inserted in the back of the cylinder. This is a security feature that protects your vehicle from being stolen. If the ignition cylinder does not turn, you'll have to take off the pin that holds it in place to let it slide out of the housing.
The procedure is simple however, it takes patience. Make sure the pin is in accessory position prior to drilling. You can also harm your car's electrical and electronic systems if you drill in the wrong place. Mark the part of the drill that is protruding from the keyway before drilling. This acts as a flag to prevent you from drilling too far and damaging the cylinder housing.
4. Locked out
The first thing you should do when you lock your keys inside your car is to not panic. You might think you're in a huge mess, but it's essential to be calm because there are plenty of solutions and methods you can get back in your vehicle without damaging the window or calling the tow truck. Whether it's using shoelaces, bobby pins, packaging tape, Slim Jims or modified coat hangers made from wire Most of these strategies will work if you have the correct tool or trick. However, it's important to be aware that not all methods will work and that you may need to call a professional for assistance in some cases.
It is essential to pick the safest option first. You might not like the idea of someone else helping you open your car, but if you're in an emergency situation, it might be your best option. A lot of roadside assistance plans give their customers the option to access their vehicle without having a car key.
Another great idea is to take an inhale and walk around the entire exterior of your vehicle to check whether your keys are located in any other door or in the trunk. It's easy to forget something as simple as a door handle or a rearview mirror when you're in a hurry Be sure to look everywhere.
If you're unable to open your car keep your cool and seek help from a friend or neighbor who is near. A stranger may be able to help you should they not want to leave you in a bind. If they're not able to help you then you should call roadside assistance. You can also check whether your insurance covers this.
To avoid a locked out key in the future, make sure you are checking the app of your car's manufacturer or use a smart device to transform your phone into a key fob. You can also buy an electronic keysafe to keep keys that you don't use, which will keep them out of sight and away from thieves.