How to Deal With a Lost Key in Your Car
Losing car keys is an unimaginable scenario. But it's not the end of the world if you know what to do.
You can either bring proof of ownership or a spare key to the dealer to have a new one programmed. There are several ways to lose your keys, and this will determine how easy or difficult it is to replace them.
1. Keys that are worn out
Over time, keys for cars are subjected to a lot of wear. They are jingled in pockets, rubbing against one with each other, and then inserted into locks over and over again. They can lose their form and not fit into the ignition cylinder. The key will either be stuck or not turn if this happens. It can be frustrating in both cases.
It's easy to avoid this by creating multiple copies of your brand new car key. You can then rotate them, reducing the amount of wear each one experiences. Additionally, if you do lose your car keys, you have a spare to use.
It is also possible to replace your key fob in case it has stopped working properly. They are extremely useful and perform a variety of functions, such as unlocking doors, launching the engine, and triggering your alarm. It can happen due to several reasons, but the most common is that they've worn out from regular use. They are small fragile and can be easily smashed in your purse or pocket. The buttons can easily be broken or worn down.
In this case you should look into every possible place like your bag, jacket, and other places where you would normally keep them (like in the shoe shine box). Next, call your dealership to see if they have 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 however it's far better than the alternative.
You can also reduce the risk of this happening by avoiding adding any other items to your key ring, and regularly lubricating your keys and lock. This will ensure that they both last longer and perform as they should. Also, keep an extra in a secure area, like with your family or close friends. This ensures that you always have the key at hand when you require it.
2. Damaged Lock
If the key fits inside the lock but you're unable to turn it, it could be an issue with the lock itself. The tumblers of the lock could be clogged up with dirt and debris. This could cause the mechanism to feel stiff. Locksmiths can make use of a specific tool to clean and lubricate the lock, helping it to feel more smooth.
Another possible reason the lock on your car doesn't turn is that it was forced to close. The thief could have used a tool, such as bump keys or a hammer to force the door open. If you notice evidence of this on the door handle, take the car to a locksmith immediately. The locksmith will be able to repair the issue and prevent future issues.
Certain locksmiths offer a service that disables your old keys inside your 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 have ownership of the vehicle before you can do this. Usually, a V5C bearing your name will be accepted.
It is also advisable to keep a spare car key in your trunk or on your person in case you lose it. A spare key will allow you to get back on the road swiftly and also prevents you from needing to pay for a locksmith.
Based on the type of vehicle and the key, you may need to contact a locksmith to repair it. Dealerships will give you keys to replace, however it could cost an additional towing fee and can take several days to order. A professional locksmith can usually produce a new key much faster and cheaper and could be able to program it to your vehicle on autopilot. They also offer a range of services to keep your vehicle safe, such as the door seal kit and alarms against theft. Find out more on PolicyBachat.
3. Clogged Ignition cylinder
Over time, the ignition cylinder and key will wear out. A worn out cylinder may jam or bind when it is removed, inserted, or turned, which could cause problems with the powering-on and starting of your vehicle. It is typical for these problems to develop slowly and become more pronounced over time as the cylinder wears out.
This problem is most often indicated by the inability to insert the key into the lock, or rotate the ignition cylinder. This is a clear indication that your cylinder has gotten worn out and needs to be replaced. You could try replacing the cylinder by yourself, however it is generally better to get it done by a professional.
The ignition cylinder is a small, cylindrical piece of metal which is contained within the lock housing of the cylinder. It is comprised of two tumblers. Each tumbler has a distinct position and only fits the correct key bumps. In time, tumblers could be worn out or blocked with dirt. To get rid of this, you will have to clean the ignition cylinder port. This can be done using the smallest bottle of graphite oil. You can purchase this at your local auto parts store and follow the directions on the label.
First, take off the dashboard and steering wheel covers from your vehicle. This will let you see the cylinder port more clear. Look for a pin in the back of the cylinder. This is a security measure that stops your vehicle from being stolen. If the ignition cylinder does not turn, you will need to remove the retention pin in order to allow it to slide out of the housing.
https://www.g28carkeys.co.uk/replace-lost-car-keys-near-me/ is easy but it requires patience. Before drilling the pin, ensure that the pin is in the accessory position. It is also important to remember that there is a possibility of damaging your vehicle's electronics and electrical systems if you drill in the wrong location. Make sure you mark the portion of the drill that is protruding from the keyway prior to drilling. This acts as a warning to stop you from damaging the cylinder by drilling too deeply.
4. Locked out
If you've accidentally locked the keys to your vehicle, the first step is to try not to panic. You may think that you're in a huge mess, but it's important to stay calm because there are plenty of solutions and methods you can get back into your vehicle without damaging the window or calling a tow truck. You can use shoelaces bobbypins, packaging tape or Slim Jims to get into your vehicle. However, it's important be aware that not every method will work and that you may need to contact a professional for assistance in certain situations.
It is important to always choose the least destructive option first. You might not like the idea of a stranger helping you get into your car, however if you're in an emergency situation, it may be the best option. Many roadside assistance plans provide their customers the option to enter their vehicle without a car key.
Take a deep breath 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 rush it's easy to miss something that is as simple as the door handle or the rearview mirror. Be sure to check everywhere.
If you're not able to unlock your car, be calm and contact a neighbor or friend who is nearby to help. A stranger might be able to help you in the event that they don't want to leave you stranded. If they're unable to help you, then you should take a look at calling roadside assistance, or checking if your car insurance will cover it.
Use the app of your car's manufacturer or use an android phone to convert your phone into a key fob to avoid having your key locked out in the future. You can also purchase a key safe that is magnetic to store your spare keys in the safe, which will keep them safe from thieves and hidden from.