How to Deal With a Lost Key in Your Car

It's a nightmare to lose your car keys. However, it's not the end of the world, when you know what to do.

The first step is to locate an extra key and store it in a safe location, or bring proof of ownership to the dealership to have a new one programmed. Keys can get lost in different ways, which will impact 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 can lose their shape and won't fit in the cylinder of ignition. The key will either be stuck or not turn when this happens. It can be frustrating in both cases.

Fortunately, it's simple to avoid this from happening by creating duplicate copies of your vehicle key when it is new. Then, you can rotate them to reduce the amount of wear each one undergoes. You can also make use of the spare key in case you have lost key car your car keys.

It is also possible to replace your key fob in case it has stopped working properly. As you know that they are extremely handy to have, and they can do a variety of jobs including unlocking your doors and launching your engine to activating the alarm. This could be due to various reasons but the most frequent is that they've worn out from regular use. They are small, delicate and often jostled in your bag or pocket. The buttons are prone to be broken or worn down.

If this happens the first thing you need to do is thoroughly check all the places it could be, including your bag or jacket, and even in places you wouldn't normally store them (like inside a box for shoeshine). Next, contact your dealer to see if they have an extra key in stock. If not, they'll order one for you and have it paired with your vehicle. This can be expensive, but it's much better than the alternative.

You can also lower the risk of this happening by not adding anything else to your key ring and regularly lubricating your keys and lock. This will ensure that they both last longer and work properly. It's also a good idea to keep a spare key in a safe location such as with your family or friends, so you can always have it available when you need it.

2. Damaged Lock

If the key fits in the lock but you can't turn it, it might be an issue with the lock itself. The lock tumblers may be blocked by dirt and debris. This could cause the mechanism to feel stiff. Locksmiths can employ an oil-based tool to clean and lubricate the lock. This will make it feel more comfortable.

A car lock that doesn't turn could have been jammed by force. A thief may have tried to pry open the door using a tool, such as the pick or bump key. If you find evidence of this on the door handle, you should take your vehicle to an experienced locksmith as quickly as possible. The locksmith can repair the damage and prevent future issues.

Certain locksmiths may provide a service to disable your old keys in the vehicle, which makes it much more difficult for someone to steal your car. However, you'll need proof of identity and proof that you are the owner of the vehicle to have this done. A V5C form with your name on it is likely to be accepted.

It's recommended to keep an extra key on your person or in the trunk of your car, in case you misplace yours. Having a spare will allow you to get back on the road quickly and also prevents you from having to pay for locksmith services.

You may have to call a professional locksmith to change the key depending on the vehicle. Dealerships can provide you with a replacement key, but it could cost you towing fees and take several days to order. A professional locksmith can create a key in a shorter time and at a lower cost. They may even be able program it to work with your vehicle automatically. They also provide a range of additional services to help keep your car secure like an re-sealing kit for doors or anti-theft alarms. Visit PolicyBachat to find out more about the services they offer.

3. Clogged Ignition Cylinder

Over time your ignition key and cylinder may wear out. A worn-out cylinder may be stuck or jam when it is removed, inserted or turned, Online which can cause problems starting and powering up your car. It is typical for these problems to develop slowly and then become more noticeable over time as the cylinder wears out.

This problem is most often manifested by the inability of insert the key into the lock or turn the ignition cylinder. This is a clear indication that the cylinder is worn out and needs to be replaced. You can attempt to replace the cylinder on your own, but it is usually better to have this done by professionals.

The ignition cylinder is a small metal cylindrical piece that is housed inside the lock housing for the cylinder. It contains two tumblers. Each tumbler is assigned a specific location that is suited to the appropriate key bumps. Over time the tumblers may be worn out or blocked with dirt. To get rid of this issue, you'll need to clean the ignition port. This can be accomplished with the use of a small bottle of graphite lubricant. You can buy this product at your local auto parts store. Follow the directions on the bottle.

Take off the dashboard and steering wheel covers from your car. This will allow you to have an easier view of the port on the cylinder. Look for a pin which is inserted into the cylinder's back. This is a security feature that protects your vehicle from being stolen. If the ignition cylinder does not rotate, you'll need to remove the pin that holds it to let it slide out of the housing.

The process is simple enough, but requires some time. Make sure that the pin is in the accessory position prior to drilling. It is also important to note that there is a chance of damaging the car's electronic and electrical systems by drilling in the wrong location. Before drilling, make sure to mark the portion of the drill bit protruding out of the keyway with tape. This acts as a signal to prevent you from drilling too deeply and causing damage to the cylinder housing.

4. Locked Out

When you accidentally lock your keys in your car, the first thing to do is try not to get scared. You may think that you're in a big mess, but it's essential to be calm because there are many solutions and methods you can get back in your vehicle without breaking the window or calling an emergency tow truck. You can use shoelaces packaging tape, bobbypins or Slim Jims to get into your vehicle. It's important to remember that not all methods be effective, and you may require help from a professional in some instances.

It is crucial to choose the least destructive option first. If you're in a situation that requires immediate attention you might not be a fan of the idea that a stranger will open your vehicle for you, but it is the best choice. It's worth noting that a lot of roadside assistance plans, such as the NRMA provide members with the option of entering their vehicle without having a key.

Another excellent idea is to take an inhale and walk around the exterior of your car to see whether your keys are located in any other door or in the trunk. When you're in a hurry it's easy to miss something that is as simple as the door handle or the rearview mirror. Make sure to look everywhere.

If you're unable to get your car open Try to remain calm and ask for help from a friend or neighbor who is near. A stranger may be willing to assist you should they not want to leave you stranded. If they are unable to help you and you are stuck, it is best to contact roadside assistance. You can also check whether your insurance will cover this.

To avoid losing a key in the future, make sure to check your car manufacturer's app or use a smart device turn your phone into a car key fob. You can also purchase a magnetic keysafe to store keys you have left over, which will keep them out of sight and safe from theft.