Car Key Repair Tips
With the right advice the repair of your car keys is easy. You can avoid a lot of issues by keeping your locks cylinder and keys well-lubricated.
Before you contact a locksmith or visit the dealership, you can try using pliers with needles and penetrating oil to remove a broken piece of key from your ignition cylinder. Be gentle and patient to avoid causing additional damage.
1. Knock the key ignition
You're at the station, picking up groceries or just headed home after a long day, when you put your car key in the ignition and it doesn't turn. It can be frustrating especially if your appointment is already late.
There are many things that could be wrong with your car keys. Fortunately, many of these issues are easy to solve. First, check to see if the key isn't stuck. It's not uncommon for people to mistakenly take the wrong key off the table or their keychain, however, if the key fits snugly in the cylinder and isn't soiled or loose, it should be able for you to start your car.
Wiggle the key a few times inside the ignition, making sure not to damage it with too much pressure or force. If it still doesn't work, try using some graphite oil. Spray it on the cylinder and then insert and take off the key a few times to work the lubricant into all parts of the cylinder.
If you can't start your car, it may be time to change the key. If the teeth on your key are worn, they'll have a hard time engaging the pins on the cylinder. A new key will not cost a lot however it's worth it if your key keeps getting stuck in the ignition.
If the gear selector is set to "P" (park), this can also stop your car from being started. In this case you'll need check the shift lever to ensure that it's in the proper position for turning the key. If you're not comfortable repairing the issue yourself, you can ask a trusted professional at your local AutoZone store to identify and fix the problem.
2. Lubricate repair car keys could be stuck and is preventing it from turning. If this is the case, you can apply pressure to it with a screwdriver to see if it will budge. If not, you'll have to replace it.
Another reason why your key may not turn is that it's not the right key for your car. This is a mistake that many people make, however it's easy to repair. Check whether the key hasn't been damaged or dropped.
If you are sure that the key is in the correct position then lubricate it to remove any dirt particles that may hinder it from turning. A silicone-based lubricant works best because it prevents dirt from building up and blocking the keyhole in the future. If this isn't working, it could be that the cylinder for your key is damaged or blocked. If this is the case, you will need to replace the lock's cylinder or get a new key made.
You might also try spraying a bit of grease into the keyhole, and jiggling it gently. It is worth trying to remove any dirt that could hinder the key from getting into the lock cylinder.
In the end, if you haven't replaced the battery in your key fob recently, it might be time to do so. It's easy to change the battery in modern fobs. You simply need to break the two halves with an screwdriver and remove the old one. Then, insert the new one in the same manner and test it.
If you're in the market for a car key or replacement, go to your local Ace hardware store. In addition to traditional keys and key fobs you'll find a wide selection of automobile accessories and maintenance tools too.
3. Check the Gear Selector
When it concerns your car having a spare key is an excellent idea. You never know when you'll lose your primary key or lock it inside the vehicle. A spare key can allow you to get on the road faster and can save you money over the course of time. In the past, a spare key could be made at your local hardware store or the auto parts department of the dealership. Nowadays it's usually more cost-effective and convenient to have a spare key made at an automotive locksmith.
One of the most important ways to keep your Mercedes Benz in optimal condition is to take routine maintenance seriously. This means taking your car to the mechanic regularly and ensuring you are following your driving habits. This includes ensuring that you always stop completely before changing gears and employing the correct technique when using the drive-away feature.
Another important aspect of taking care of your Mercedes Benz is to be aware of any issues that may arise with the gear selector bushing. This small component is crucial to the functioning of your automatic transmission, and plays a major part in ensuring that you get the best performance out of your vehicle. If you're noticing that it's becoming more difficult to switch gears or your car is beginning to be struggling to translate your actions into the transmission, this is an indication that your selector bushing is in need of replacement.
It's also a good idea to have spare keys cut for your vehicle if the original keys wear out or become damaged. It may be a hassle, but it's better than having your vehicle taken away or locked in the trunk.
4. Check the Battery
The battery in the key fob has a life-span that is limited and will eventually have to be replaced. A car's ignition system relies on the fob's battery in order to transmit signals to the key cylinder.
If the key fob's buttons aren't responding quickly to a press, it could be time to replace it. A new battery can bring back the functionality of the button functions of the key. It is crucial to ensure that the new battery has been properly inserted. To do this, carefully remove the keyfob using a flat-headed screwdriver or coin and examine the old battery to ensure it's positioned correctly. The battery should resemble an actual coin with the plus sign and the plus sign. Place the new battery in the same way as the original one to prevent any damage.
A misalignment of the tumblers of the key cylinder is a frequent issue that may prevent the ignition key from turning. The key can be re-aligned by gently tapping it with a rubber mallet, or the screwdriver's handle.
The key cylinder can also become gummed up or stuck with time. A small amount of lubricant that penetrates can help clear out any obstructions and improve the movement of the key inside the lock cylinder. It is recommended to use a silicone spray or graphite lubricant when trying to solve this problem. It is crucial to note that if the issue continues after following these suggestions there is an issue with the ignition switch itself and should be examined by a certified auto technician. It's risky to fix this part yourself if you don't have the right instruction. This could lead to further damage and costly repairs. It is crucial to hire an auto locksmith that is licensed and has experience.
5. Check the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylinder, when functioning properly, ensures that the key fits perfectly into the ignition socket and allows the vehicle to be started. However, various problems can impede proper ignition cylinder function. The inability to turn a car key can be frustrating. It could be due to mechanical issues, such as a steering lock an electronic component that has failed and prevents theft, or electrical issues, like a power failure or a dead battery. Taking care to address this issue promptly can help avoid further problems like being stranded or incurring costly repairs, while also ensuring that the car remains reliable and safe to drive.
A car key that doesn't turn in the ignition usually suggests underlying issues with the ignition switch or the key switch. Fortunately, there are many practical solutions for addressing the issue. For instance, moving the steering wheel around and confirming the position of the gear selector as well as inspecting and replacing the key, checking the battery voltage, and cleaning the ignition cylinder to clear any obstructions. These simple steps can help you solve many common problems.
In rare instances, the ignition cylinder may need to be realigned to restore normal functionality. Fortunately, locksmiths who are professionals and mechanics possess the knowledge and the right tools to complete this delicate task. This process involves meticulously changing the internal components of the cylinder to ensure that they are aligned properly so that the key can fit into and turn smoothly within the ignition. This can extend the lifespan of your ignition system, and help maintain optimal performance. If you have a spare key, try using it to determine if the issue is with the key that was originally used or the ignition cylinder.