You have your car key in your hand and you try to open your car but you can’t. What happened? You can’t believe that you’ve been locked out of your car even if you got the keys to your car in the palm of your hands.
When we think about car lockout scenarios, we often picture someone leaving the keys locked inside the vehicle. However, you can also get locked out of your vehicle even if you have the keys if your keys don’t work. So why do car keys fail and what can you do about it?
Different Kinds Of Car Keys
Before we troubleshoot why your car keys aren’t working, let’s first take a closer look at your car keys. Did you know that there are different types of car keys?
The most common types of car keys are the traditional car key and the remote car key. The traditional car key is just a key that you insert into the ignition and turn in order to start the engine. It’s a mechanical key that you use to turn to lock or unlock your car.
The remote car key, on the other hand, comes with a remote that you use to unlock and lock your car. They are usually battery-operated.
Why Are My Car Keys Not Working?
So why do car keys fail? Here are some of the most common reasons:
The Battery Is Dead
One of the most common reasons why car keys don’t work is because the battery is dead. If your remote car key isn’t working, it’s probably because the battery is dead. Try replacing the battery in your key fob and see if that fixes the problem.
The Transponder Chip Is Damaged
Another common reason why car keys don’t work is that the transponder chip is damaged. The transponder chip is a small chip that’s embedded in your car key. It emits a signal that’s recognized by the car’s immobilizer. If the transponder chip is damaged, the immobilizer won’t recognize the signal and your car will not start.
There’s A Jam In The Lock
If your traditional car key isn’t working, it’s probably because there’s a jam in the lock. Try using a metal hanger or a paper clip to try to dislodge the jam. If that doesn’t work, you may have to call a locksmith.
The Lock Is Frozen
If the lock on your car is frozen, it won’t open no matter how hard you try to turn the key. Try using a hairdryer to melt the ice and see if that fixes the problem.
Your Car Keys Aren’t Working: The Solutions
Hopefully, now you have a better understanding of why your car keys may not be working. Here are some solutions for the most common problems:
If The Battery Is Dead, Replace It
If the battery in your remote car key is dead, replace it with a new battery and see if that fixes the problem.
If The Transponder Chip Is Damaged, Get A New Key
If the transponder chip is damaged, you’ll need to get a new key. Contact your car dealership or locksmith to have a new key made.
If There’s A Jam In The Lock, Try To Clear It
If there’s a jam in the lock, try using a metal hanger or paper clip to clear it. If that doesn’t work, you may have to call a locksmith.
If The Lock Is Frozen, Melt It With A Hairdryer
If the lock on your car is frozen, try melting it with a hairdryer. Once the ice has melted, the lock should open.
Call A Mobile Locksmith
When you’ve exhausted all your options, it may be time to call a mobile locksmith. They can help you with all your lockout needs and they usually have a 24-hour emergency service.
So there you have it: a few reasons why your car keys may not be working and some solutions to fix the problem. If you’re having trouble getting into your car, don’t panic! Try one of the solutions listed above and you’ll be on your way in no time.
Whether you left your car keys inside the vehicle or you find that they aren’t working, you need a reliable mobile locksmith to help you gain access to your car again. When that happens, call Trustworthy Towing Service for their mobile locksmith service anywhere in Memphis TN….
