Car Key Repair Tips
With the right tips, car key repair is simple. Keep your locks and keys well-lubricated to avoid a variety of issues.
Use pliers with a needle-nose to remove the damaged piece of key from the cylinder of your ignition before you call a dealer or a locksmith. Be sure to avoid causing more damage by being gentle and patient.
1. Knock on the ignition key
You're at the gas station, you're getting groceries or going home after an extended day of work, and your car will not start. It can be a frustrating experience particularly when your appointment is overdue.
There are many issues that could be causing problems with your car key. Fortunately, a lot of these problems are easy to fix. First, make sure the key is actually stuck. It's not common for people to grab the wrong key from the table or their keychain however, if the key fits snugly in the cylinder and isn't soiled or loose, it should be able to start your vehicle.
Make sure to turn the key a few times inside the ignition, making sure not to scratch it with excessive force or pressure. If it still doesn't work, try using some graphite oil. Spray it on the cylinder and insert and take the key out several times to push the lubricant into all the parts of the cylinder.
If you are unable to start your car, it may be time to change the key. If the teeth of your key are worn it will be difficult to get them to engage the pins in the cylinder. Getting a new key isn't costly, and it is well worth the expense If you're constantly having your car key stuck in the ignition.
If the gear selector is set to "P" (park), this could also prevent the car from starting. In this situation you'll need check the shift lever and make sure it's in the correct position to turn the key. If you're not confident about fixing the issue yourself, consult an expert at your local AutoZone store to diagnose and fix the issue.
2. Lubricate the Ignition Socket
The ignition switch may be stuck, it isn't able to rotate. If this is the case, you can try applying pressure to it using a screwdriver and see whether it moves. If not, you'll need to replace it.
Another reason your key might not turn is that it's the wrong key for your vehicle. This is a blunder that many people make, but it's simple to fix. Make sure that the key has not been damaged or dropped.
If you're confident that the key is the correct one, lubricate it. This will release any dirt particles that could be hindering 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, it could be that the cylinder for your key is damaged or blocked. If this is the case, you'll need to replace the lock's cylinder, or get a new key made.
You can also spray a bit of grease into the keyhole and gently move it. This will loosen any dirt that might be blocking the key from getting into the lock cylinder, and it's a good idea to give it a go.
It's time to replace the battery if you haven't done it in a while. Change the battery on modern fobs is relatively easy and is usually a a matter of prying the two halves open using the help of a screwdriver and removing the old one. Then, insert the new one the same way and test it.
If you're in the market for car keys or replacement, go to your local Ace hardware store. You can also find auto accessories and maintenance equipment, as well as traditional keys and key fobs.
3. Check the Selector of the Gear Selector
A spare key for your car is a good idea. You never know when you'll lose your primary key or lock it inside the vehicle. A spare key can help you get to the road more quickly and can save you money over time. In the past, you could have an extra key cut at the local hardware store, or even the department for auto parts at your dealership. It's much more convenient and cost-effective to have a spare key cut by an automotive locksmith today.
Take routine maintenance seriously to keep your Mercedes Benz running at its best. This means taking your car to the mechanic for regular maintenance and paying close attention to your driving habits. This means you must always stop completely prior to changing gears, and follow the correct technique when using the drive-away feature.
Be aware of any issues with the bushing for the gear selector when taking care of your Mercedes Benz. This tiny component is essential to the functioning of your automatic transmission and plays a crucial role in ensuring you're getting the most efficient performance from your vehicle. If you notice it is becoming harder to shift gears, or your vehicle is having difficulty translating your actions into the transmission the selector bushing could need to be replaced.
It's also a good idea to have spare keys cut to fit your vehicle when the original keys wear out or become damaged. This might be a hassle but it's much better than having your vehicle stolen or locked inside the trunk.
4. Check the Battery
The battery in the key fob's key fob has a short lifespan, and it eventually needs to be replaced. A car's ignition system relies on the fob's batteries to transmit signals to the key cylinder.
It might be time to replace the key fob in case its buttons are no longer responsive. A new battery can bring back the functionality of the button functions of the key. It's essential to ensure that the new battery is inserted correctly. To do so you must carefully open the key fob using a flat screwdriver or a coin and examine the old battery to determine the proper orientation. The battery should look like a coin and have the plus and minus signs. The new battery should be placed in the same direction as the old one to avoid damage.
One common issue that can hinder the key from turning in the ignition is a misalignment of the tumblers of the key cylinder. A gentle tapping of the key with a mallet made of rubber or the handle of a screwdriver can align these tumblers and allow the key to turn.
Over time, the key cylinder may also become clogged or stuck. A small amount of lubricant that penetrates will help remove any obstructions, and help improve the key's movement inside the lock cylinder. It is recommended to use a silicone spray or graphite lubricant when addressing this issue. If love it persists, it may be a serious problem with the ignition switch. A qualified auto technician should examine the switch in a professional manner when this happens. Attempting to repair this part without proper training can lead to additional damage and costly repairs. This is why it's crucial to enlist the services of an experienced and licensed auto locksmith.
5. Check the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylinder is a complicated piece of machinery that, when functioning correctly, makes sure that the key fits snugly into the ignition socket, allowing the vehicle to start. However, various problems can impede proper ignition cylinder function. From mechanical issues like a steering wheel lock or a dead electronic anti-theft component to electrical issues, including a power outage or a dead battery, inability to turn the car key can be a major hassle. This problem should be addressed immediately to avoid further problems like being stuck and requiring costly repairs. It will also ensure that the car is reliable and safe.
A car key that doesn't turn on normally signals underlying problems with either the ignition switch or the key switch. Fortunately, there are many practical solutions to fix the problem. These include using the steering wheel to jiggle and confirming the gear selector's position and then inspecting and possibly replacing the key, examining the battery's voltage, and cleaning the cylinder of the ignition to remove obstructions. These simple solutions can assist you in fixing numerous common problems.
In rare cases the ignition cylinder might require re-alignment to restore normal function. Professional locksmiths and mechanics are equipped with the specialized equipment and skills to carry out this delicate job. This involves carefully adjusting the internal components of the cylinder to ensure that they are properly aligned so that the ignition key to rotate smoothly and easily into the ignition. This task can extend the life of your ignition system and maintain its optimal performance. If you have an extra key, you can try using it to determine if the problem is with the original key or the ignition cylinder.