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6 Possible Reasons Why Your Car Keys Don't Work

Admin • Jul 28, 2023

Car keys failing to unlock the doors or start your car can be frustrating. But why would your car keys stop working without warning? Below are some explanations of why car keys fail to work.


1. Damaged Lock

Damaged car locks can prevent your keys from working. The car lock is likely faulty if the key turns without opening the lock. Alternatively, the key may fail to turn if the lock is damaged.


Locks become faulty due to old age, extreme temperatures, or dirt blocking the keyway. Moreover, the impact of car collisions can also damage your locks.


If you suspect the lock is faulty, engage a locksmith. An auto locksmith can tell whether the problem lies with the lock assembly or the lock cylinder. Your local locksmith can repair the lock on-site. Alternatively, they can replace the lock if the damage is irreversible.


2. Worn-Out Keys

Unlocking door locks and starting the ignition every day can take a toll on your car keys. With time, the keys will have dings and scratches. The dents may seem minor, but one day, your worn-out keys will get stuck in the ignition or fail to open the door.


Replace worn-out keys before they leave you stranded or damage your ignition. If you spot dings or scratches on the key, ask your local auto locksmith to replace it.


3. Faulty Ignition

Constant wear and tear also affect your car ignition. The friction from the key can damage the internal parts of the ignition. So, don't always blame your keys if the car fails to start. You must have a professional check the ignition cylinder to confirm if it's faulty.


You can tell whether the ignition cylinder is faulty if your keys open your car door but fail to start the car. Also, check for the immobilizer warning light, as it may indicate a problem with the ignition system.


An automotive locksmith can help you deal with faulty ignition cylinders. The locksmith will either repair the ignition cylinder or replace it entirely.


4. Drained Key Fob Batteries

Your car key fob can only work with fully charged batteries. The key fob will give you the following warning signs when the batteries get drained:


  • The key fob doesn't work at all.
  • The fob only works on occasion.
  • You must click the buttons multiple times.
  • You have reduced signal strength.


The transponder chips in the car locking system and the fob can't communicate if the batteries have no charge. So, once you notice these signs, change the batteries and test whether the key fob will work.


5. Damaged Key Fob

If the battery replacement doesn't work, your key fob is probably faulty. A key fob won't work if the transmitter or receiver is defective. Any damage to the transmitter or receiver cuts off communication between the key fob and the car locking system.


Key fobs can become faulty due to old age or when you drop them. Besides, the constant pressing of buttons can cause wear and tear.


Car dealerships and auto locksmiths can fix most key fob problems. But if the experts can't salvage the key fob, they'll recommend a proper replacement.


6. Unprogrammed Key

A key fob can only work if a dealership or locksmith has programmed it to work with your car. Unfortunately, key fobs lose data or reset themselves due to security reasons. If that happens, you must reprogram your key fob once more. Programming is also necessary when you replace the key fob.


The Lock Shop can help you fix your car keys, ignition system, or car locking system. 
Contact us today for a quick resolution.

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Locksmiths are well-trained professionals who deal with locks and keys. Locksmiths can duplicate keys, break a lock and replace your keys. Thus, should you have any issues with your locks or keys, you should reach out to a professional locksmith. The guide below outlines the tips you should follow when you want to identify the best locksmith. Research and Ask for Recommendations Instead of waiting until the time you lose your keys, or you need your locks replaced, take charge to find one locksmith you can rely on in advance. Research online on sites like Google to find locksmiths near you. Read their reviews and see whether their services satisfied their previous clients. You can also ask your friends and family members to give referrals of the best locksmiths if they know of any. Once you get a few names from the internet or referrals, you can get more information about the locksmiths on findalocksmith.com , made available by Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA). Know the Services You Need Before reaching out to a locksmith, identify the service you need from them. Having an idea of the service you want will save you and the locksmith time and give the technician adequate time to prepare before visiting you. Some of the services that you may require are: Lock replacement or repair Key duplication Installation of new mechanical or electrical locks Replacing keyless control systems. Ask for a Cost Estimate Request different locksmiths to give you the cost estimate of the services you want in advance, then compare their prices. If a locksmith charges more and has good reviews, you should consider getting their services since they could be satisfactory. Check the Locksmith’s Certifications In most states, locksmiths require certification and no criminal record for them to have licenses to work as locksmiths. Therefore, ask the locksmith to show you their licenses before they start working on your premise. Also, check out whether the locksmith has ALOA certification. ALOA certification shows that the locksmith has the necessary professional knowledge and skills to execute locksmith work. Be sure to also check the car the locksmith is driving and their business card. Professional locksmiths often move around in a company vehicle with a logo similar to the logo on their business cards. Matching logos imply that the locksmith company is genuine. Wait for the Locksmith to Ask for Your Identification Before a locksmith starts any work at your property, they should ask you to identify yourself. You should identify yourself by providing your Identity Card (ID). The identification is for purposes of ensuring the locksmith met with the correct property owner. The locksmith may require you to fill out an authorization form that shows you are giving the locksmiths permission to perform the duties that brought them to your home. The authorization form contains information such as: Your name Your ID number Your residence address Your contact details You requested services Your signature Ask for an Invoice After the locksmith finishes fixing the locks on your property, ask them to give you a written invoice. The invoice should contain the prices for all items purchased, the labor cost, and any other costs you paid for their service. If you have insurance for the property the locksmith worked on, you can present the invoice to your insurance company and you may get compensation for your incurred costs. Hiring the right locksmith requires you to be thorough and keen to get your work done well. With a little advance work, you can have the assurance that your locks and keys are with a trustworthy locksmith — so your valuables are safe. Contact us today to hire the best locksmiths.
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