How to Deal With a Lost Key in Your Car
Losing car keys is an incredibly stressful situation. However, it's not the end of the world, provided you know what to do.
You can bring proof of ownership or bring in a spare key to the dealer for a new one programmed. There are several ways you can lose keys, which will determine how simple or difficult it is to replace them.
1. Worn Out Key
Over time, keys to cars are subjected to a lot of wear. They are often jingled in pockets, rubbing against each other, and inserted into locks repeatedly again. They can lose their shape and no longer fit inside the ignition cylinder. If this happens, the key could either get stuck or it won't turn. It can be frustrating in both cases.
It's simple to avoid this by creating multiple copies of your new car key. Then you can rotate them, reducing the amount of wear each one undergoes. Additionally, if you do lose your car keys, there's a spare to use.
You may also need to replace your key fob if it has been unable to function properly. They are extremely useful and can do many things, including unlocking doors, launching the engine, and activating your alarm. This could be due to a few reasons, but the most common is that they've damaged from use. They are small delicate and are often tossed around in your pocket or bag. The buttons could easily break or wear down.
If this occurs the first thing you need to do is thoroughly check all places that you might find it, including your bag or jacket, and even places where you wouldn't normally store them (like inside a shoeshine box). Contact your dealer and ask if they have spare keys available. If not, they can make one for you and then have it fitted to your vehicle. This can be expensive but it's a lot better than the alternative.
You can lower the risk by avoiding adding any other items to your key ring, and by regularly lubricating both your lock and key. This will ensure that they both last longer and function properly. Also, keep the spare in a secure area, like with your family or friends. This way, you will always have the key in case you require it.
2. Damaged Lock
If you can turn the key but it isn't able to fit into the lock, there may be an issue with the lock. The lock tumblers could be clogged by dirt and debris, which can make the mechanism feel stiff. Locksmiths can make use of an oil-based tool to clean and lubricate the lock. This will allow it to feel more smooth.
A car lock that won't turn could have been jammed by force. A burglar might have employed a tool like a bump key or a pick to open the door open. If you see any evidence of this on the door handle, take your vehicle to an experienced locksmith as quickly as you can. The locksmith can fix the issue and prevent future problems.
Some locksmiths provide services that disable your old key inside your vehicle. This makes it much more difficult for thieves to take your vehicle. You will need to provide proof of your identity as well as proof that you own the vehicle before this can be done. A V5C form that has your name on it is likely to be accepted.
It's recommended to carry a spare key on your person or in the trunk of your car in case you misplace yours. A spare key can allow you to get back on the road in a hurry 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 replace it. Dealerships will provide you with a replacement key, but it could cost an additional towing fee and can require several days to get. A professional locksmith can usually create a new key faster and cheaper and could be capable of programming it to your vehicle automatically. They also offer various services to keep your car secure, including an resealing kit for doors and anti-theft alarms. Visit PolicyBachat to find out more.
3. Clogged Ignition Cylinder
Over time, the ignition cylinder and key may wear out. A worn-out cylinder could jam or bind when it is removed, inserted, or turned. This can cause issues with the powering-on and starting of your vehicle. It is typical for these issues to progress slowly and get more severe over time as the cylinder wears out.
One of the most typical signs of this problem is when the key can't be inserted into the lock, or is incapable of rotating in the ignition cylinder. This is a sign that the cylinder needs to be replaced. It is possible to replace the cylinder on your own however it is generally recommended to get a professional.
The ignition cylinder consists of a small metal cylindrical piece that is located inside the lock housing of the cylinder. It has two tumblers. Each tumbler is assigned a specific location that is suited to the key bumps that are appropriate. Over time, tumblers may get worn out or clogged with dirt. To fix this problem, you'll need to clean the ignition port. This can be done with the use of a small bottle of graphite lubricant. You can buy this at your local auto parts store and follow the directions on the label.
The first step is to remove the dashboard and steering wheel covers from your vehicle. This will provide you with an easier view of the port for the cylinder. Look for a pin that is inserted into the cylinder's back. lost keys to car is a security measure that protects your vehicle from being taken. 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 easy enough, but it requires a bit of patience. Before drilling the pin, make sure that the pin is in the accessory position. It is also important to note that there is a chance of causing damage to the car's electronic and electrical systems if you drill into the wrong spot. Make sure you mark the portion of the drill that protrudes from the keyway before drilling. This will act as a signal to prevent you from drilling too far and causing damage to the cylinder housing.
4. Locked out
If you've accidentally locked your keys in 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 essential to stay calm because there are plenty of solutions and methods you can get back into your vehicle without damaging the window or calling an emergency tow truck. You can use shoelaces, packaging tape, bobbypins, or Slim Jims to get back into your vehicle. It's important to remember that there are many different methods that work, and you might need professional help in certain cases.
The key is to always look for the least destructive solution first. If you're in an emergency, you may not like the idea that a stranger will open your car for you, but it's the best option. Many roadside assistance plans offer their customers the option to enter their vehicle without a car key.
Another idea is to take a deep breath and walk around the exterior of your vehicle to determine 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 the rearview mirror. Make sure to look everywhere.
If you're still struggling to get your car open, try to remain calm and seek assistance from a family member or friend who's nearby. Most of the time someone will be willing to help you to get out of the jam because they don't want to be left without a home. If they're unable to help you, you must consider calling roadside assistance or checking if your car insurance covers it.
Check the app of your car's manufacturer or use a smart phone to convert your phone into a key fob in order to keep your keys from being locked out in the future. You can also purchase an electronic key safe to store your spare keys in the safe, keeping keys safe from thieves and out of view.