Car Key Repair Tips
Car key repair can be easy if you follow the right guidelines. Keep your keys and lock cylinders well lubricated to avoid many problems.
Use pliers with a needle-nose to remove the damaged piece of key from the cylinder of your ignition before you call an expert locksmith or dealer. Be sure to avoid causing more damage by being gentle and patient.
1. Knock on the ignition key
You're at the gas station, getting groceries or just headed home after a long work day. you insert your car keys in the ignition but it won't turn. It can be extremely frustrating, especially if you're already late for your appointment.
There are many things that could cause problems with your car keys. Fortunately, the majority of these problems are easily fixed. First, check to see if the key is stuck. It's not common for people to pick the wrong key from the table or their keychain but if the key fits well in the cylinder and isn't soiled or loose it is likely to be able to start your vehicle.
Try wiggles of the key a few times within the ignition, taking care not to damage it with too much force or pressure. If it still doesn't work try using graphite oil. Spray the lubricant into the cylinder, then insert the key and then take it out several times more to get the lubricant all over the cylinder.
If you still can't get your car to start, it could be time to change your key. If the teeth of your key are worn it will be extremely difficult for them to connect the pins inside the cylinder. A new key shouldn't cost a lot but it's well worth it if the key is stuck in the ignition.
If the gear selector is set to "P" (park), this could also prevent the car from starting. In this case you'll need check the shift lever to ensure that it's in the proper position for turning the key. If you are not confident about fixing the issue on your own, ask a trusted professional at an AutoZone store to diagnose and fix the issue.
2. Lubricate the Ignition Socket
The ignition switch could be blocked, preventing it from turning. If this is the situation then you can apply pressure with the help of a screwdriver to see if it moves. If it doesn't move it is time to replace it.
It's possible that you have the wrong key. This is a mistake many people make, but it's not difficult to repair. Verify that the key is the right type and hasn't been compromised because of being dropped or damaged.
If you're confident that the key is the right one, then lubricate it. This will eliminate any dirt particles that could hinder it from turning. A silicone-based lubricant is ideal, as it will prevent dirt from building up and blocking the keyhole in the future. If company website doesn't work the key cylinder could be blocked or worn out. If this is the case, you'll need to get a new car key or replace the lock cylinder.
You can also try spraying a little oil into the keyhole and jiggling it gently. This will loosen any dirt blocking the key from getting into the lock cylinder, and it's worth a try.
In the end, if you haven't changed the batteries in your key fob in the last few months, it might be the right time to do it. The process of changing the battery in modern fobs is relatively easy and usually just an issue of tearing the halves open with an screwdriver to their seams and popping out the old one. Insert the new battery in the same way and test it.
If you're in the market for car keys or replacement, go to your local Ace hardware store. In addition to traditional keys and key fobs, you'll find a wide range of tools for maintenance and auto repair too.
3. Check the Selector of 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 have it locked inside the vehicle. A spare key can get you back on the road quicker and also save you money over time. In the past keys for spares could be cut at the local hardware store, or at the auto parts department of the dealership. It's more convenient and economical to have a spare key cut by an automotive locksmith today.
Take routine maintenance seriously to keep your Mercedes Benz running at its top performance. This means going to the mechanic for regular maintenance and paying close attention to your driving habits. This includes ensuring that you always get to a stop before shifting gears, and following the proper technique when engaging the drive-away feature.
Another important aspect of taking care of your Mercedes Benz is to be aware of issues with the bushing for the gear selector. This small component is crucial for the automatic transmission and plays a crucial role in ensuring that you get the best performance from your vehicle. If you notice that it's getting harder to change gears, or you're finding that your vehicle isn't able to translate your actions to the transmission the selector bushing could require replacement.
When your original keys start to wear out or malfunction, it's recommended to make a spare. Although it may seem like an inconvenience, it's an alternative to having your car stolen or locked in the trunk!
4. Check the Battery
The battery in the key fob has a life-span that is limited and eventually will need to be replaced. The fob's power is used to transmit signals from the fob to the key cylinder.
If the buttons on the key fob aren't responding quickly to a press, it could be time to replace the battery. A new battery can restore functionality to the key's button functions. It is important to ensure that the new battery has been properly inserted. To do this, carefully remove the keyfob using a flat screwdriver or coin and check the old battery to make sure it's placed correctly. The battery should be shaped like the shape of a coin, and also have the plus and minus signs. Replace the battery using the same orientation to prevent external or internal damage.
A misalignment in the tumblers of the key cylinder is a common issue that prevents the ignition key from turning. Gently tapping the key with a rubber mallet or the handle of a screwdriver can adjust these tumblers, allowing the key to turn.
The key cylinder can also become gummed up or stuck over time. A small amount of penetrating oils can help to remove any obstructions and help improve the flow of the key inside the lock cylinder. It is advised to use silicone spray or graphite when trying to solve this issue. If the problem persists, it may be a serious issue with the ignition switch. A qualified auto technician should inspect the switch professionally when this happens. It's a risk to fix this part yourself without the proper training. This can result in more damage and costly repairs. This is why it's essential to seek the assistance of an experienced and licensed professional auto locksmith.
5. Check the Ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylinder, if functioning properly, ensures that the key is snugly inserted into the ignition socket, allowing the vehicle to be started. However, various problems can impede proper ignition cylinder function. From mechanical issues such as the lock on the steering wheel or a dead anti-theft electronic component to electrical issues, like a power failure or a dead battery inability to turn the key in your car can be extremely frustrating. The quick resolution of this issue can prevent further complications like being stranded or incurring expensive repairs, while making sure that the vehicle remains safe and reliable to drive.
If your car key won't turn, it's a sign that there is an issue with the ignition switch or the key. There are several solutions to the problem. You can clean the cylinder for ignition and clear any obstructions by jiggling your steering wheel, examining the position of the gear selector, checking the key and possibly replacing it, checking the voltage and checking the key. These simple methods can assist you in fixing many of the common issues.
In rare instances, the ignition cylinder may require re-alignment to restore normal function. Professional mechanics and locksmiths are equipped with the right equipment and skills to carry out this delicate task. This process involves meticulously altering the internal components of the cylinder to ensure that they are aligned properly, allowing the key to slide into and smoothly in the ignition. Performing this task can significantly prolong the life of your ignition system, while ensuring maximum performance and reliability. If you have a spare key, consider using it to determine if the problem is related to the original key or the ignition cylinder.