Watch Out: How Car Key Repair Is Taking Over And What To Do About It
Car Key Repair Tips
Car key repair is easy if you follow the right guidelines. You can avoid a variety of problems by keeping your locks and keys well-lubricated.
Use a needle-nose pliers to remove the broken piece of key from the ignition cylinder before calling a locksmith or a dealer. Be gentle and patient to avoid causing more damage.
1. Knock on the ignition key
You're at a station, buying groceries or you're just returning home from an exhausting day at work when your car isn't starting. It can be frustrating, especially if your appointment is already late.
There are many things that can be wrong with your car keys. Fortunately, most of these problems are easy to solve. First, make sure the key is actually stuck. It's normal for people to grab the wrong key off the table or the keychain. If the key is firmly in the cylinder and not dirty or loose, then it's likely to work.
Make sure to turn the key a few times in the ignition, being careful not to scratch it with excessive force or pressure. If that doesn't help then try a graphite-based grease. Spray it into the cylinder and insert and remove the key a few times to work the lubricant through all sides of the cylinder.
If you're still unable to get your vehicle to start, it could be time to replace your key. If the teeth on your key are worn down, it will be very difficult for them to engage the pins of the cylinder. A new key won't cost much but it's well worth it if the key keeps getting stuck in the ignition.
Another issue that could stop your car from starting is when the gear selector is on "P" (park). In this situation, you'll need to 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 identify and repair the problem.
2. Lubricate the Ignition Socket
The ignition switch may be stuck and is preventing it from turning. If this is the case you can apply pressure with an screwdriver and check whether it turns. If it isn't moving it is time to replace it.
It's possible you've got the wrong key. This is a mistake many people commit, but it's not difficult to fix. Verify that the key hasn't been damaged or dropped.
If you are sure that the key is working make sure to lubricate it in order to eliminate any dirt particles that may hinder it from turning. A silicone-based lubricant is ideal because it prevents dirt from accumulating and blocking the keyhole in the future. If this doesn't work, the key cylinder might be clogged or worn out. If this is the case, you'll need to replace the lock cylinder or get a new key made.
You could also try spraying a bit of grease into the keyhole, and jiggling it gently. It's a good idea to try loosening any dirt that may hinder the key from entering the lock cylinder.
Finally, if you haven't replaced the battery in your key fob lately it's probably the right time to do it. Changing the battery on modern key fobs is quite simple and usually just a matter of prying the halves open with the help of a screwdriver and popping out the old one. Then, put in the new one the same way and test it.
remote car key repair near me 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 too.
3. Check the Gear Selector
When it concerns your car having a spare car key is an excellent idea. You never know when you might lose your primary key, or even lock it inside the car. Having a spare will help you get back on the road faster and can save you money in the long run. In the past, you could get a spare key made at the local hardware store or even in the auto parts department of your dealership. Nowadays, however it's usually more cost-effective and convenient to have a spare key cut at an automotive locksmith.
Regular maintenance is essential to keep your Mercedes Benz running at its best. This means taking your vehicle in for regular servicing and taking care of your driving habits. This means you must always stop completely before changing gears, and use 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 part is crucial to the functioning of your automatic transmission, and plays a crucial role in ensuring you're getting the best performance from your vehicle. If you notice that it's becoming harder to shift gears or your car seems to struggle to translate your actions to the transmission, it's an indication that your selector bushing is required to be replaced.
When your original keys start to wear out or fail, it's a good idea for you to make a spare. 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 has a limited life span and eventually will need to be replaced. A car's ignition system relies on the fob's batteries to send signals to the key cylinder.
If the key fob's buttons aren't responding quickly to a press, it could be time to replace the battery. A new battery can restore functionality of the keys' buttons. It is essential to make sure that the new battery has been installed correctly. To do so, carefully remove the key fob with an abrasive screwdriver or a coin and examine the battery that was used to ensure proper orientation. The battery should look like an actual coin with a plus sign and a plus sign. Place the new battery in the same orientation as the old one to avoid damage.
A misalignment in the tumblers of the key cylinder is a common problem that can prevent the ignition key from turning. The key can be re-aligned by gently tapping it using a mallet made of rubber, or the handle of the screwdriver.
In time, the cylinder for the key can also get blocked or stuck. A small amount of lubricant with penetrating properties can help clear out any obstructions, and help improve the key's movement inside the lock cylinder. It is advised to use silicone spray or graphite when trying to solve this problem. It is crucial to note that if the issue continues after following these suggestions there is a serious problem with the ignition switch, which should be professionally assessed by a certified auto technician. Attempting to repair this part without proper training could cause further damage and costly repairs. It is crucial to hire a professional auto locksmith who is licensed and skilled.
5. Check the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylinder, if functioning properly, ensures that the key fits perfectly into the ignition socket and allows the vehicle to start. However, various problems can impede proper ignition cylinder function. The inability to turn a car key can be frustrating. It could be caused by mechanical issues such as a steering lock a dead electronic component that stops theft, or electrical problems such as a power outage or a battery that is dead. Addressing this problem promptly helps prevent further complications that could result in being stranded or incurring costly repairs, while making sure that the vehicle remains safe and reliable to drive.
If your car key won't turn, it is usually a sign that there is a problem with the ignition switch or the key. Fortunately, there are many practical solutions for addressing the problem. Clean the cylinder of ignition and eliminate any obstructions by jiggling the steering wheel, examining the position of the gear selector, checking the key and if necessary replacing it, checking the voltage and examining the key. These simple steps can assist you in fixing numerous common problems.
In rare instances the ignition cylinder could need to be realigned to restore normal operation. Fortunately, professional locksmiths and mechanics have the necessary skills and tools that are specifically designed to complete this delicate task. This involves carefully adjusting the internal components of the cylinder, ensuring that they are properly aligned and allowing the ignition key to turn smoothly and easily into the ignition. This process can prolong the longevity of your ignition system, and help maintain the highest level of performance. If you have a spare key, try using it to determine if the problem is with the original key or the ignition cylinder.