A car accident can be a stressful and frightening experience. An often less-considered issue that may come with an accident is lock damage or loss. For example, your car key gets broken in the door’s lock cylinder or you lose your keys entirely. In these situations, an auto locksmith can help.
Should I Call an Auto Locksmith After an Accident?
You may be wondering if it’s worth it to call an auto locksmith after an accident. The answer is yes! Here are some potential services a locksmith can offer you:
1. Repairing or Replacing Your Car Locks
Your car locks are susceptible to damage in an accident. That can make them less effective or even render them completely inoperable. Since the locks are a key part of keeping your car secure, you need to get them replaced quickly. An auto locksmith can assess the damage and determine if the existing locks can be repaired. If not, they can replace them and restore the safety of your vehicle.
2. Replacing Your Car Keys
Not only can locks be damaged in an accident, but car keys can too. If your ignition key breaks in the cylinder, you may not be able to start your vehicle. An auto-lock professional can remove the broken key and replace it with an identical or new one, depending on the age and model of your vehicle. A replacement may also be necessary if you lost your keys in the accident. You can rest assured the locksmith will have your new car key made as fast as possible so you can get back on the road.
3. Repairing Your Ignition Cylinder
Sometimes an accident can cause the ignition cylinder to become misaligned or jammed. If this happens, you may have challenges starting your engine. A professional auto locksmith can remove and repair the ignition cylinder, allowing your vehicle to be operational again. If the cylinder is beyond repair, they can replace it with a new one. They can do the wiring work necessary to make sure the new cylinder is properly integrated into your car. However, note that replacing your ignition cylinder can be complicated and time-consuming. That means it may take a few hours or even days to complete the job, depending on your car’s make and model.
4. Opening Your Locked Car
In the panic of getting out of your car after an accident, you may forget your keys and lock the door behind you. That can cause problems when you need to get back inside. A locksmith can help you open the door without damaging your vehicle’s locks or the car’s body. They can also help you if your child’s locks are activated and you cannot open the door from the inside.
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5. Reprogramming Your Transponder Key
Transponder keys are a security measure for many modern cars. They contain a chip programmed into the car’s ignition. That chip communicates with the car’s computer, allowing it to start. If you lose your transponder key or becomes damaged, you need to get a new one. An auto locksmith can reprogram the replacement key to work with your car’s security system. That will allow you to start the engine and use your vehicle again.
Whether it’s replacing your car keys or repairing damaged locks, auto locksmith professionals can help get your car back on the road after an accident. They can also advise you on the best ways to improve your vehicle’s security. Keep an experienced auto locksmith’s contact information on hand in case of future car lock issues. Doing so can be a lifesaver after a car accident.
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