Car Key Repair Tips
With the right advice fixing your car keys is simple. You can prevent a lot of issues by keeping your keys and lock cylinder well-lubricated.
Use pliers with a needle-nose to remove the broken piece of key from your ignition cylinder before calling a locksmith or a dealer. Be gentle and patient to avoid causing more damage.
1. Turn off the Key Ignition
You're at the gas station, picking up groceries or just headed home after a long day, when you insert your car keys in the ignition, but it won't turn. It can be extremely frustrating especially if you're late for your appointment.
There are a variety of things that can go wrong with your car keys. Fortunately, most of these issues can be fixed. First, check to see whether the key is stuck. It's not uncommon for people to mistakenly pick the wrong key from the table or their keychain however, if the keys is snugly inserted into the cylinder and isn't soiled or loose, it should be able for you to start your vehicle.
If it still does not work Try using graphite lubricant. If the key is still not working, try using some graphite lubricant. Spray the lubricant into the cylinder, insert the key and then take it out again to spread the lubricant over the cylinder.
If you're still having trouble getting your car to start, it may be time to change your key. If your key teeth are worn, they will struggle to engage the pins on the cylinder. A new key will not cost a lot however it's worth it if the key is stuck in the ignition.
If the gear selector is set to "P" (park), this may also stop the car from starting. In this situation you'll need check the shift lever and ensure that it's in the proper position for turning the key. If you're not sure about fixing the issue yourself, have an experienced professional from an AutoZone store diagnose and repair the problem.
2. Lubricate the Ignition Socket
The ignition switch may be stuck, preventing it from turning. If this is the case, you can try applying pressure to it with a screwdriver to see whether it will move. If it isn't moving then you'll need to replace it.
It's possible that you have the wrong key. This is a common mistake that many make and it's easy to repair. Check whether the key hasn't been damaged or dropped.
If you're sure the key is the correct one, you can lubricate it. This will release any dirt particles that could be preventing it from turning. A silicone-based lubricant is ideal to prevent dirt from accumulating and blocking the keyhole in the future. If this doesn't work it could be because the cylinder for your key is damaged or blocked. If so, you'll need to get a new car key made or replace the lock cylinder.
You could also spray a small amount of lubricant in the keyhole, and gently play with it. This can remove any dirt keeping the key from entering the lock cylinder, so it's worth a try.
It's time for you to change the battery if it hasn't been done so in the past few months. Changing the battery on modern fobs is fairly simple and usually just a matter of prying the two halves open using the help of a screwdriver and then removing the old one. Insert the new battery in the same manner and then test it.
Ace Hardware is the place to go when you need an entirely new car key. In addition to traditional keys and key fobs, you'll find a broad range of tools for maintenance and auto repair, too.
3. Check car key repairs for your car is a fantastic idea. You never know when you'll lose your primary key or have it locked inside the vehicle. A spare key can allow you to get on the road faster and also save you money over time. In the past keys for spares could be cut at your local hardware store or the auto parts department of the dealership. Nowadays, however it's usually more cost-effective and practical to have an extra key cut by an automotive locksmith.
Regular maintenance is essential to keep your Mercedes Benz running at its highest performance. This means taking your vehicle to the mechanic regularly and ensuring you are following your driving habits. This includes making sure that you always stop completely before shifting gears, and following the proper technique when engaging the drive-away feature.
Another essential aspect of taking care of your Mercedes Benz is to be aware of any issues with the bushing for the gear selector. This small component is crucial to the functioning of your automatic transmission, and it plays a significant part in ensuring you're getting the best performance out of your vehicle. If you notice it is becoming harder to shift gears, or your vehicle isn't able to translate your actions to the transmission, the selector bushing may need to be replaced.
It's also recommended to cut spare keys for your vehicle if the originals begin to wear out or become damaged. While this may seem like an inconvenience, it's actually much better than having your vehicle stolen or locked in the trunk!
4. Check the Battery
The battery in the key fob's key fob has a short lifespan and eventually has to be replaced. The ignition system in a car depends on the fob's batteries to send signals to the key cylinder.
If the key fob's buttons no longer respond promptly when pressed, it could be time to replace it. A new battery can bring back functionality to the button functions of the key. It is essential to ensure that the new battery has been installed correctly. To do this you must carefully remove the key fob with an abrasive screwdriver or a coin and then examine the old battery to determine the proper orientation. The battery should look like the shape of a coin, and also have a plus and minus sign. Insert the new battery with the same orientation to prevent external or internal damage.
A common issue that can stop the key from turning the ignition is a misalignment of the tumblers inside the key cylinder. The key can be adjusted by tapping it gently with a rubber mallet, or the handle of the screwdriver.
Over time, the key cylinder may also become clogged or stuck. A small amount of lubricant with penetrating properties will help remove any obstructions, and help improve the movement of the key inside the lock cylinder. It is advised to use silicone spray or graphite lubricant while dealing with this issue. If the problem persists it could be a serious problem with the ignition switch. A certified auto technician should examine the switch in a professional manner if this is the case. It's risky to fix this part yourself without proper instruction. This can result in further damage and costly repairs. This is why it's crucial to seek the assistance of a licensed and experienced professional auto locksmith.
5. Check the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylinder, if functioning correctly, makes sure that the key fits perfectly into the ignition socket, allowing the vehicle to start. However, various problems can impede proper ignition cylinder function. The inability to turn a car key is a hassle. It could be caused by mechanical issues such as a steering lock or an electronic component that has failed and prevents theft, or electrical issues like a power loss or a dead battery. This issue should be addressed promptly to avoid any further issues like being stuck and incurring expensive repairs. It will also ensure that the car is safe and secure.
If your car key won't turn, it is usually a sign that there is a problem with the ignition switch or key. There are several solutions to the problem. You can clean the cylinder for ignition and clear any obstructions by jiggling your steering wheel, checking the position of the gear selector, checking the key, and possibly replacing it, examining the voltage and inspecting the key. These simple steps can solve 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 operation. Fortunately, locksmiths who are professionals and mechanics have the skills and tools that are specifically designed to complete this delicate task. This process involves meticulously changing the internal components of the cylinder, making sure that they are in the right alignment, allowing the key to be inserted and smoothly turn inside the ignition. This task can extend the longevity of your ignition system, and help maintain its optimal performance. If you have an extra key, you can try using it to determine if the problem is related to the original key or the ignition cylinder.