Car Key Repair Tips
Car key repair can be easy if you follow the right guidelines. You can prevent a lot of issues by keeping your locks and keys well-lubricated.
Before you call a locksmith or go to the dealership, try using needle-nosed pliers and penetrating oil to remove the broken key from your ignition cylinder. Be sure to avoid causing more damage by being patient and gentle.
1. Knock the Key Ignition
You're at a gas station, buying groceries or going home after a long workday when your car will not start. It can be very frustrating especially if you're late for your appointment.
There are a few different possibilities for problems with your car keys. Fortunately, a lot of these issues are easy to solve. First, ensure that the key is actually stuck. It's common for people to pull the wrong key off of the table or on the keychain. If the key is securely in the cylinder, and isn't dirty or loose, then it should function.
If this does not work, try using some graphite lubricant. If this doesn't work, try some graphite grease. Spray it on the cylinder and insert and take the key out several times to spread the lubricant through all sides of the cylinder.
If you're still unable to get your car to start, it might be time to replace your key. If the teeth on your key are worn, they will have a hard time engaging the pins on the cylinder. The purchase of a new key isn't costly, and it will be worth the investment if you're constantly getting your car key stuck in the ignition.
If key repairs is set to "P" (park), this may also stop the car from starting. In this instance you'll need check the shift lever to ensure that it's in the proper position for turning the key. If you are not sure about fixing the issue on your own, ask an experienced professional from an AutoZone store identify and repair the issue.
2. Lubricate the Ignition Socket
The ignition switch may be stuck, which prevents it from turning. If this is the case, you can try applying pressure to it with a screwdriver to see if it will budge. If not, you will need to replace it.
Another reason why your key may not work is because it's the wrong key for your car. This is a mistake many people commit, but it's simple to fix. Make sure the key is of the correct type and hasn't been compromised due to being damaged or dropped.
If you're confident that you have the correct one, you can lubricate it. This will eliminate any dirt particles which may hinder it from turning. A silicone-based lubricant is ideal to prevent dirt from building up and blocking the keyhole in the future. If this doesn't work, the key cylinder might be blocked or worn out. If this is the case, you'll have to replace the lock's cylinder or get a new key made.
You could also spray a small amount of grease into the keyhole and gently move it. It's a good idea to try loosening any dirt that could hinder the key from entering the lock cylinder.
In the end, if you haven't changed the battery in your key fob lately then it's the time to do so. It's easy to change the battery in modern fobs. It's as simple as pry the halves apart with a screwdriver and pop out the old one. Insert the new battery in the same manner and test it.
Ace Hardware is the place to go if you need a new car key. In addition to traditional keys and key fobs you can find a full range of tools for maintenance and auto repair as well.
3. Check the Gear Selector
A spare key for your car is a good idea. After all, you never know when you'll lose your primary key or lock it inside the vehicle. A spare key can help you get on the road faster and save you money over time. In the past keys for spares could be cut at your local hardware store, or at the auto parts department at the dealership. Today, however it's more economical and convenient to have a spare key cut at an automotive locksmith.
Make sure you are taking regular maintenance seriously to keep your Mercedes Benz running at its highest performance. This means going to the mechanic regularly for maintenance and paying attention to your driving habits. This means you must always stop completely before changing gears and using the correct method when using the drive-away feature.
Be aware of any problems regarding the gear selector bushing when you take care of your Mercedes Benz. This small component is crucial to the functioning of your automatic transmission, and it plays a significant part in ensuring you're getting the most efficient performance from your vehicle. If you notice it's becoming harder to shift gears or your car is beginning to be struggling to translate your actions with the transmission, this is an indication that the selector bushing is in need of replacement.
If your keys are beginning to wear out or fail it's a good idea for you to make a spare. Although it may seem like an inconvenience, it's actually an alternative to having your car stolen or locked in the trunk!
4. Check the Battery
The battery of the key fob has a limited life span, and it eventually needs to be replaced. The fob's power is used to transmit signals from the fob to the key cylinder.
If the buttons on the key fob do not respond quickly to a press, it could be time for a replacement. A new battery will restore functionality to the key's button functions. It's essential to make sure that the new battery is inserted correctly. To do so you must carefully open the key fob with an abrasive screwdriver or a coin and then examine the old battery for the correct orientation. The battery should be shaped like an actual coin and include the plus and minus signs. Replace the battery using the same orientation to prevent external or internal damage.
One common issue that can prevent the key from turning the ignition is a misalignment in the tumblers in the key cylinder. The key can be realigned by tapping it gently using a mallet made of rubber, or the handle of the screwdriver.
The key cylinder may become gummed up or stuck over time. A small amount penetrating oil can help remove any obstructions and help improve the flow of the key inside the lock cylinder. It is advised to use silicone spray or graphite when addressing this issue. If the issue continues, it may be a serious issue with the ignition switch. A qualified auto technician should examine the switch in a professional manner in the event that this is the case. It's a risk to repair this part yourself without the proper training. This could lead to further damage and costly repairs. This is the reason it's so important to seek the assistance of an experienced and licensed professional auto locksmith.
5. Examine the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylinder, when functioning correctly, makes sure that the key fits snugly in the ignition socket which allows the vehicle to start. However, various problems can impede proper ignition cylinder function. 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 hinders theft, or electrical issues such as a power outage or a battery that is dead. Taking care to address this issue promptly can help prevent further complications that could result in being stranded or incurring expensive repairs, while making sure that the vehicle remains reliable and safe to drive.
If your car's ignition key doesn't turn, it is usually a sign that there is a problem with the ignition switch or the key. There are several solutions to the issue. This includes using the steering wheel to jiggle to check the position of the gear selector as well as inspecting and replacing the key, evaluating the battery voltage, and cleaning the cylinder of the ignition to remove obstructions. These simple solutions can resolve many of the common issues and get you back on the road quickly.
In rare cases it is possible to re-align the cylinder of ignition to restore normal function. Professional mechanics and locksmiths are armed with the appropriate tools and know-how to complete this delicate task. This involves meticulously adjusting the internal components of the cylinder, making sure that they are in the right alignment and allow the key to be inserted and smoothly turn inside the ignition. This can greatly prolong the life of your ignition system while ensuring maximum performance and reliability. If you have a spare key, try using it to determine if the problem is related to the key that was originally used or the ignition cylinder.