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 that could happen when you know how to deal with it.
You can either bring proof of ownership or bring in a spare key to the dealer for a new one programmed. You can lose your keys in various ways, which can affect how easy or hard it is to replace them.
1. Worn Out Key
Over time, keys for cars get a lot of wear. They are jingled around in pockets, rub against each with each other, and then inserted into locks over and over again. They may lose their shape and won't fit into the ignition cylinder. The key may be stuck or not turn when this happens. Either way, it can be extremely frustrating.
It's easy to avoid this by making multiple copies of your new car key. Then, you can rotate them and reduce the amount of wear each one undergoes. You can also use the spare key if you lose your car keys.
It is also possible to replace your key fob in case it has been unable to function properly. These are extremely useful and can perform a variety of functions, such as unlocking doors, launching the engine, and triggering your alarm. It can happen for many reasons, but most commonly it is due to the button has worn out. They are tiny and delicate, usually being tossed around in your pocket or bag and are able to be worn down or have buttons broken off.
In this situation you should look into all possible locations like your bag, jacket and other places where you would normally put them (like in the shoe shine box). Contact your dealer and ask whether they have spare keys in stock. If not, they'll order one for you and have it fitted to your vehicle. This process can be costly however it's far superior to the alternatives.
You can lower the risk by avoiding adding any other items to your key ring, and also by regularly lubricating your lock and the key. This will help them last longer and perform as they should. It's also a good idea to keep a spare key in a safe place such as with your family or with your friends, so you'll have it when you need it.
2. Damaged Lock
If you can turn the key, but it doesn't fit in the lock, there may be a problem with the lock. The lock tumblers may be blocked by dirt and debris. This can cause the mechanism to feel stiff. Locksmiths can employ an instrument that is specifically designed to clean and lubricate the lock, making it feel smooth once more.
A car lock that isn't able to turn could have been jammed by force. A burglar might have employed a tool like bump keys or a pick to open the door open. If you notice evidence of this on the door handle, bring your vehicle to a locksmith right away. The locksmith can repair the damage and prevent further issues.
Certain locksmiths may offer a service to disable your old key in the vehicle, which makes it more difficult for anyone to steal your vehicle. You will need to provide proof of your identity and that you have ownership of the vehicle before the process can begin. A V5C form with your name on it will usually be accepted.
It's recommended to keep an extra key on your person or in the trunk of your car just in case you lose your key. A spare key can help you get on the road faster and can save you money by preventing from calling locksmith.
Depending on the model of car and key, you may have to contact a locksmith in order to replace it. Dealerships will give you a replacement key, but it could cost you a towing fee and take several days to order. A professional locksmith will typically produce a new key much more quickly and at a lower cost, and may even be able to program it to your vehicle on autopilot. They also provide a range of additional services that can help you keep your car secure, such as a door re-sealing kit or alarms to prevent theft. replace lost key to find out more.
3. Clogged ignition cylinder
Over time the ignition cylinder as well as key can wear out. A worn-out cylinder can be stuck or jammed when it is it is removed, inserted or turned, which could cause problems with powering on and starting your vehicle. It is typical for these problems to develop slowly and become more pronounced over time as the cylinder continues to wear.
One of the most typical symptoms of this problem is when the key can't be put into the lock or incapable of rotating in the ignition cylinder. This indicates that the cylinder needs to be replaced. It is possible to replace the cylinder yourself, but it's usually best to hire a professional.
The ignition cylinder consists of a small metal cylindrical piece that is located inside the lock cylinder housing. It contains two tumblers. Each tumbler is assigned a specific position that is only compatible with the correct key bumps. As time passes, tumblers can become worn or clogged up with dirt. In order to fix this issue, you'll have to clean the cylinder port of the ignition. This can be accomplished with the use of a small bottle of graphite lubricant. You can purchase this product from your local auto parts store. Follow the instructions on the bottle.
The first step is to remove the dashboard and steering wheel covers from your vehicle. This will let you observe the cylinder port clear. Look for a pin which is placed in the cylinder's back. This is a security feature that protects your vehicle from being taken. If the ignition cylinder doesn't rotate, 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 but it requires patience. Make sure the pin is in the accessory position before drilling. You could also cause damage to your car's electrical or electronic systems when you drill in the wrong place. Make sure you mark the portion of the drill that protrudes from the keyway before drilling. This will serve as a warning to stop you from drilling too deep and damaging the cylinder housing.
4. Locked Out
The first thing you should do when you lock your keys inside your car is not to panic. Be calm. You may think that you're in a bind, but there are many options to get back into your car without damaging the windows or calling a tow truck. You can use shoelaces, bobbypins, packaging tape or Slim Jims to get into your vehicle. But, it's important to keep in mind that not all methods will work and that you might need to contact a professional for help in certain instances.
The key is to take the most non-destructive approach first. It's possible that you don't like the idea of someone else helping you open your car, but in an emergency situation, it may be your best option. It's also worth noting that many roadside assistance plans, including the NRMA provide members with the option of getting into their vehicle without keys.
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 in the trunk. It's easy to lose something as simple as the handle on a door or rearview mirror when you're in a rush So, make sure you look everywhere.
If you're unable to open your car, try to remain calm and ask for help from a family member or friend that is nearby. A stranger may 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 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 your car manufacturer's app or utilize a smart device to convert your phone into a car key fob. You can also purchase an electronic keysafe to keep keys you have left over and keep them out of sight and safe from theft.