Car Key Repair Tips
If you follow the right guidelines the repair of your car keys is simple. Keep your locks and keys well lubricated to avoid many issues.
Before you contact a locksmith or visit the dealership, try using pliers with needles and penetrating oils to remove the broken key from your ignition cylinder. Be gentle and patient to avoid causing further damage.
1. Knock the key ignition
You're at a gas station, you're buying groceries, or you're heading home after a long workday when your car won't start. It can be a huge hassle especially if you're late for your appointment.
There are several things that can cause problems with your car keys. Fortunately, most of these issues can be repaired. First, ensure that the key is actually stuck. It's not uncommon for people to mistakenly take the wrong key off the table or their keychain, but if the key fits well in the cylinder and isn't dirty or loose, it is likely to be able to start your vehicle.
If it still doesn't work try using graphite lubricant. If this doesn't work then try a graphite-based grease. Spray it on the cylinder and insert and take the key out several times to spread the lubricant into all wards of the cylinder.
If you are unable to start your vehicle, it might be time to replace your key. If the teeth of your key are worn down, it will be very difficult to get them to engage the pins of the cylinder. A new key won't cost a lot, but it's worth the money if your key is stuck in the ignition.
Another issue that can stop your car from starting is when the gear selector is in "P" (park). In this situation, you need to examine the shifter and make sure it's in the proper position to turn the key. If you're not confident in fixing the problem yourself, ask an expert at your local AutoZone store to pinpoint and fix the issue.
2. Lubricate the Ignition Socket
The ignition switch could be stuck, it isn't able to rotate. If this is the case, you can apply pressure with an screwdriver and check whether it moves. If it doesn't move, you will have to replace it.
Another reason your key might not turn is that it's not the right key for your vehicle. This is a common error that many make and it's easy to repair. Check that the key is of the right kind and isn't damaged due to being dropped or damaged.
If you are sure that the key is working make sure to lubricate it in order to eliminate any dirt particles that may be preventing 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 could be blocked or worn out. If this is the case, you'll have to replace the lock's cylinder, or have a new key made.
You can also spray a bit of grease into the keyhole and gently move it. It is worth trying to remove any dirt which might be preventing the key from entering the lock cylinder.
It's time for you to change the battery if it hasn't been done it in a while. It's easy to change the battery in modern fobs. You just need to pry the halves apart with the help of a screwdriver, and then remove the old one. Then, insert the new one the same way and test it.
Ace Hardware is the best place to go if you need an entirely new car key. In addition to traditional keys and key fobs you'll find a wide range of automobile accessories and maintenance tools too.
3. Check the Gear Selector
A spare key for your car is a great idea. In the end, you don't know when you'll lose your primary key or lock it inside the vehicle. A spare key will allow you to get back on the road faster, and it can also save you money in the long run. In the past, you could get 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.
This Web page of the most important things you can do to keep your Mercedes Benz in optimal condition is to treat routine maintenance seriously. This means taking your car to the mechanic regularly and taking care of your driving habits. This means that you should always stop completely prior to changing gears and using the correct method when using the drive-away function.
Another essential aspect of taking care of your Mercedes Benz is to be aware of issues with the bushing for the gear selector. This tiny component is essential for the automatic transmission and plays an important part in ensuring you get the best performance out of your vehicle. If you notice that it's becoming harder to change gears, or your car appears to struggle to translate your actions to the transmission, it's a sign that the selector bushing is required to be replaced.
When your original keys start to wear out or stop working it's a good idea for you to make a spare. This might be a hassle but it's better than having your car stolen or locked in the trunk.
4. Check the Battery
The battery inside the key fob has a life-span that is limited and eventually will need to be replaced. A car's ignition system relies on the fob's batteries to transmit signals to the key cylinder.
If the key fob's buttons no longer respond promptly to a press, it could be time to replace the battery. A new battery can bring back functionality to the button functions of the key. It is crucial to ensure that the new battery is inserted correctly. To do this, carefully remove the keyfob using a flat-headed screwdriver or coin and examine the battery that was used to ensure it's positioned correctly. The battery should look like the shape of a coin, and also have the plus and minus signs. The new battery should be inserted with the same orientation to prevent external or internal 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 adjusted by tapping it gently using a mallet made of rubber, or the handle of the screwdriver.
Over time, the key cylinder could also become blocked or even stuck. A small amount of penetrating oils can help to remove any obstructions and help improve the speed of movement of the key inside the lock cylinder. If you are trying to solve this issue, it is recommended that you use graphite or silicone spray. It is important to note that if the problem persists after following these suggestions, it is likely to be a serious issue with the ignition switch itself and should be examined by a certified auto technician. It is dangerous to attempt to fix this part yourself without proper instruction. This can result in further damage and costly repairs. This is why it's essential to hire a licensed and experienced professional auto locksmith.
5. Check the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylinder, if functioning properly, ensures that the key fits snugly in the ignition socket, allowing the vehicle to be started. However, various problems can impede proper ignition cylinder function. From mechanical problems like a lock for the steering wheel or a dead anti-theft electronic component to electrical issues, like a power failure or a dead battery being unable to turn the car key can be extremely frustrating. This issue should be addressed immediately to avoid further problems like being stuck and having to pay for costly repairs. It will also ensure that the car is reliable and secure.
A car key that won't turn on normally indicates underlying issues with either the ignition or the key switch. There are fortunately, a variety of practical solutions to fix the problem. Clean the ignition cylinder and remove any obstructions by turning your steering wheel, checking the position of the gear selector, examining the key, and possibly replacing it, checking the voltage and checking the key. These simple solutions can resolve many of the common issues and help you get back on the road in no time.
In rare cases, the ignition cylinder may require re-alignment to restore normal operation. Fortunately, professional locksmiths and mechanics possess the skills and tools that are specifically designed to complete this delicate task. This involves carefully changing the internal components of the cylinder, making sure that they are aligned properly, allowing the key to slide into and smoothly inside the ignition. Doing this can dramatically prolong the life of your ignition system, while also maintaining optimal performance and reliability. If you have an extra key, make use of it to determine if the problem is with the original key.