What to Do When Your Car Keys Are Damaged

It's not common to lose or damage car keys. Auto locksmiths are able to resolve these problems.

Adjusting buttons can help bring back functionality to key fobs that have been jostled. If replacing key repairs does not help, the fob may need to be replaced entirely.

Dead Key Fob Batteries

Although it might seem that keys that jingle are long gone, many automobiles still have key fobs. These fobs are useful however, should their batteries go out they could become a problem. It is crucial to keep them fully charged throughout the day. Unfortunately, this can be difficult and an uncharged key fob battery could leave you in the middle of nowhere.

The good news is that there are options to escape this situation. Based on the model and make, there is often a mechanical key in the fob that you can use to unlock the door. Some models have an additional key that can be used to start the vehicle. This is a last resort usually only meant to get you to your destination, but can be useful in certain circumstances.

If you're unable to start your car with this method, then the next best option is to lift the front of your vehicle off the ground with set jumper cables. Connect the red cable to the large terminal of the starter and the black cable to the ground nearby. This will give the fob battery enough juice to start your vehicle, or at least take you home or to the mechanic.

Another alternative is to take the fob's key to an Interstate All Battery Center location for a new replacement battery. To replace the battery, you'll require an incredibly small screwdriver with a flat head or butter knivescrew, or other pry tools. Do not apply too much force to the case, or it will break and scatter bits of the fob throughout your living space.

After opening the case, use your pry tool to wedge around the fasteners like you would with an orange or an apple and start separating the halves. Be cautious not to pull on the circuit boards or antennas that contain the electricity that keeps the key fob plugged in to your vehicle. If you disturb these devices, you'll need to go to your dealer or an auto repair shop to have it programmed again.

Locked keys in the trunk

Sometimes, it's simple to lock your keys inside your trunk, especially if you're in a hurry or distracted. There are many people who keep spare car keys indoors or in their wallets, so this isn't always a problem. In this instance you should contact an emergency roadside service or a locksmith to get your keys. They will be able to unlock the trunk without harming your car, and they may even be able to repair any damaged locks that caused this incident.


Depending on your situation You can also ask someone else to bring you your spare key or call the dealership to ask them to create an entirely new key for you. Of course, a better option is to keep an extra key in your wallet or home and keep it in case you need to lock your keys inside the trunk again.

If you don't have a spare key, then you could try opening the trunk by overriding the locking mechanism. This involves shorting the fuse that controls the trunk release. This process can be complex, and it's important to follow safety guidelines. Check the owner's manual for specific instructions on how to complete this. This method is not recommended for those who do not have much automotive experience.

If the traditional methods for locksmithing aren't working, you can employ household items such as the screwdriver or rod made of steel. A spatula or other kitchen tools can be used to force the trunk open or create space. Unfortunately, some cars come with advanced security features which prevent these techniques from working. A professional will be required to open your trunk. These specialists can also perform the jiggle or rekeying method to disable the locking mechanism, or they might have to drill the actuator of the trunk lock and make a hole in the door. These methods can be costly, so it's a good idea to keep an emergency key in your possession or contact your dealership to request a rekeying service. This should aid you in avoiding any future issues.

Damaged Ignition

It might seem easy to turn the key, but there are many elements and steps that must work together to get the car running. If a component fails or if a single step is not properly executed you could lose the power or control you drive. Knowing the signs that your ignition is not working properly can help you avoid bigger problems, and help you find the right solutions.

A mobile mechanic can examine the ignition system for damage if it is becoming difficult to turn. They can remove the cylinder of ignition using automotive lock picks to fix any damage that might have caused the issue. The problem can be fixed by reprogramming either the ignition or the key on the spot. This will allow you to drive away with the full function of your vehicle.

If your car stops while you drive it could be a sign you need an ignition repair. It could be dangerous for other drivers in the event that your engine ceases to function while you are driving. You could also be at risk of an accident. Broken ignition switches, ignition cylinders, and other parts can cause these kinds of issues and fixing them soon is essential.

Sometimes, you could encounter more issues than an ignition switch that is jammed and require an entire replacement instead. In such cases, a mobile mechanic will typically be capable of performing an ignition replacement on the on the spot. They'll be able to do this by disassembling the steering column and removing the old ignition assembly, then installing the new one to make it easier to insert the key and operate your vehicle. This kind of replacement could save your time and money compared to a completely new car, and will be a lot quicker than waiting for an automotive shop to open up at a time that is convenient for you.

Damaged Locks

There are a variety of reasons that your car locks might be damaged. Some of these issues can be solved by simple swapping of the battery on the key fob while others require a more precise repair to fix the mechanical components or electronic locking system.

Weather Damage

Extreme temperatures, sun exposure and even dust can be a significant issue for locking systems. These environmental conditions can lead to corrosion, discoloration and wear over time which can ultimately result in the lock becoming inoperable. Regular inspections are essential to avoid this.

If you are having difficulty making the key turn in the lock on your door, this could indicate that the mechanism has jammed. This is likely due to grime and dirt accumulation and can be resolved by a couple of simple DIY methods, such as using a damp q-tip or cotton swab and spraying the lock with graphite or silicone spray.

The pins in the cylinder may also be misaligned. The problem can be corrected by taking the lock off and manually aligning the cylinder with the keyhole on the door. Once the cylinder has been relocated, the screws should be used to secure it.

The key itself can be damaged in some way. This can be caused by excessive force when turning the key or the key was cut incorrectly. If you suspect this to be the case, you can try using an alternative key to see whether it is working without problems. Ultimately, the best way to address any damage is to consult with a professional locksmith. These experts will conduct a thorough diagnosis to determine the cause of the issue. They will use specially designed tools to remove any obstruction or misalignment that may be present in the lock mechanism. They will then replace the damaged parts with new ones to restore function. A locksmith can also make recommendations on how to protect your lock from further damage. This can include weather resistant covers or shields that protect your lock from harsh elements.