Car Key Repair Tips
Car key repair is easy if you follow the right guidelines. You can avoid a variety of problems by making sure your locks and keys well-lubricated.
Before you call a locksmith, or go to the dealership, try using pliers with needles and penetrating oil to remove a broken piece of key from the cylinder of your ignition. Be sure to avoid causing more damage by being gentle and patient.
1. Knock the key ignition
You're at a gas station, buying groceries or heading home after an exhausting day at work when your car isn't starting. It can be extremely frustrating especially if you're behind on your appointment.
There are several things that could cause problems with your car keys. Fortunately, the majority of these issues can be solved. First, check to see if the key isn't stuck. It's not uncommon for people to grab the wrong key off the table or on the keychain. If the key is securely in the cylinder and not dirty or loose, it should function.
If it doesn't work try using graphite lubricant. If this doesn't work try graphite grease. Spray it on the cylinder and insert and take the key out several times to push the lubricant into all the wards of the cylinder.
If you're still unable to get your vehicle to start, it might be time to change your key. If the teeth of your key are worn it will be difficult to get them to engage the pins inside the cylinder. A new key will not cost much but it's well worth the money if your key keeps getting stuck in the ignition.
One other issue that could hinder your car's start is when the gear selector is on "P" (park). In this situation, you'll need to check the shift lever and make sure it's in the right position to turn the key. If you're not confident about fixing the problem yourself, ask a professional you trust at your local AutoZone store to diagnose and repair the issue.
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 using a screwdriver and see whether it will move. If not, you'll have to replace it.
Another reason why your key might not turn is because it's not the right key for your car. This is a common error that many make and it's easy to fix. Check whether the key hasn't been damaged or dropped.
If you're certain that the key is the correct one, then lubricate it. This will eliminate any dirt particles which may hinder it from turning. It is best to use a silicone-based lubricant, since this will prevent dirt from accumulating and obstructing the keyhole. If this doesn't work, the key cylinder might be blocked or worn. If so, you'll have to get a new car key or replace the lock cylinder.
You can also try spraying a bit of grease into the keyhole, and jiggling it gently. This will loosen any dirt hindering the key from entering the lock cylinder, so it's worth a try.
In the end, if you haven't changed the battery in your key fob in the last few months then it's time to do so. Change the battery on modern key fobs is quite simple, and it's usually just a matter of prying the halves open with an screwdriver to their seams and removing the old one. Insert the new battery in the same way and test it.
Ace Hardware is the best place to go when you need a new car key. In addition to traditional keys and key fobs, you can find a full range of auto accessories and maintenance tools, too.
3. Check the Gear Selector
When it comes to your vehicle having a spare key is a good idea. You don't know when you could lose your primary key, or lock it in the car. A spare key will help you get back on the road faster and also save you money in the end. In the past, you could have a spare key made at a local hardware store or even the department of auto parts of your dealership. It's more convenient and cost-effective to have a spare cut by an automotive locksmith today.
One of the most important things you can do to keep your Mercedes Benz in optimal condition is to take regular maintenance seriously. This means taking your car to a mechanic for regular maintenance and paying attention to your driving habits. This means that you should always stop completely prior to changing gears, and follow the correct method when using the drive-away function.
Another crucial aspect to take care of your Mercedes Benz is to be aware of any issues that may arise with the gear selector bushing. This tiny component is essential for the automatic transmission and plays a major part in ensuring you get the best performance from your vehicle. If you are noticing it's getting harder to change gears, or you're finding that your vehicle is having difficulty translating your actions into the transmission the selector bushing could need to be replaced.
If your keys are beginning to wear out or stop working it's a good idea for you to have a spare set made. This might seem like an inconvenience, but it's better than having your vehicle stolen or locked inside the trunk.
4. Check the Battery
The battery inside the fob's key has a limited life span and will eventually have to be replaced. The fob's power is used to send signals from the fob to the key cylinder.
If the key fob's buttons do not respond quickly to a press, it could be time to replace it. car key repair service will bring back the functionality of the key's button functions. It is essential to ensure that the new battery has been properly inserted. To do this take care to open the key fob with the flat screwdriver or coin and examine the battery that was used to ensure correct orientation. The battery should resemble a coin with an plus sign and a minus sign. The new battery should be placed in the same way as the previous one to avoid any damage.
One of the most common issues that hinder the key from turning in the ignition is a misalignment of the tumblers in the key cylinder. By gently tapping the key with a mallet made of rubber or the screwdriver's handle can adjust these tumblers, allowing the key to turn.
Over time, the cylinder for the key can also get blocked or stuck. A small amount of penetrating oils can help to remove any obstructions and increase the flow of the key inside the lock cylinder. It is recommended to use silicone spray or graphite lubricant while trying to solve this issue. If the issue persists, it may be a serious problem with the ignition switch. A certified auto technician should inspect the switch in a professional manner when this happens. Attempting to repair this part without proper training could result in further damage and costly repairs. It is crucial to hire a professional auto locksmith who is licensed and experienced.
5. Examine the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylinder, if working correctly, ensures the key fits perfectly into the ignition socket, allowing the vehicle to start. However, various problems can impede proper ignition cylinder function. From mechanical issues like the lock on the steering wheel or a malfunctioning electronic anti-theft component to electrical issues, like a power failure or a dead battery inability to turn the car key can be a huge hassle. This issue must be resolved immediately to avoid further complications like being stranded and incurring expensive repairs. It also helps ensure that the car is reliable and secure.
A car key that doesn't turn in the ignition usually signals underlying problems with either the ignition or the key switch. There are several solutions to the issue. This includes jiggling the steering wheel to check the gear selector's position, inspecting and possibly replacing the key, checking the battery voltage, and cleaning the ignition cylinder to clear obstructions. These simple steps will help you fix many of the common issues.
In rare instances the ignition cylinder might require re-alignment to restore normal operation. Fortunately, locksmiths who are professionals and mechanics have the skills and tools that are specifically designed to perform this delicate task. This process involves meticulously adjusting the internal components of the cylinder to ensure that they are in the right alignment, allowing the key to slide into and smoothly inside the ignition. This can extend the longevity of your ignition system and maintain optimal performance. If you have an extra key, you can try using it to determine if the issue is related to the original key or the ignition cylinder.