Car Key Repair Tips
Repairing your car keys can be simple with the right advice. Keep your keys and lock cylinders well-lubricated to avoid a variety of problems.
Before you contact a locksmith or visit a dealership, you can try using pliers with needles and penetrating oil to take out the broken key from your ignition cylinder. Avoid further damage by being patient and gentle.
1. Knock the key ignition
You're at a station, you're buying groceries, or you're going home after an extended day of work, and your car isn't starting. It can be frustrating especially when you're already in the past.
There are a few different possibilities for problems with your car key. Fortunately, the majority of these issues are easily fixed. First, make sure the key is in fact stuck. It's not common for people to grab the wrong key from the table or their keychain, but if the key fits snugly in the cylinder and isn't loose or dirty, it should be able to start your car.
Make sure to turn the key a few times inside the ignition, being careful not to damage it with too much pressure or force. If it doesn't work, try using some graphite lubricant. Spray it in the cylinder and then insert and take off the key several times to spread the lubricant through all wards of the cylinder.
If you are unable to start your car, it could be time to change the key. If the teeth on your key are worn down it will be difficult for them to connect the pins in the cylinder. A new key will not cost much however it's worth the money if your key is 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 case, check the shifter and be sure that it's in the correct position to turn the key. If you're not confident about fixing the issue yourself, let a trusted professional at an AutoZone store diagnose and repair the issue.
2. Lubricate the Ignition Socket
The ignition switch might be stuck, preventing it from rotating. If this is the case, apply pressure with a screwdriver to see if it will budge. If not, you'll have to replace it.
It's possible you've got the wrong key. This is a mistake many people commit, but it's simple to fix. Check that 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 be preventing it from turning. It is best to use a silicone-based lubricant, since this will prevent dirt from building up and blocking the keyhole. If this doesn't work, the key cylinder might be blocked or worn. If this is the case, you'll need to replace the lock's cylinder, or get a new key made.
You can also spray a little grease into the keyhole and gently jiggle it. This can remove any dirt that might be hindering the key from entering the lock cylinder, so it's worth a try.
Finally, if you haven't changed the battery in your key fob lately it's probably the right time to do it. It's easy to change the battery in modern fobs. You just need to break the two halves with the help of a screwdriver, and then remove the old one. Insert the new battery in the same way and test it.
If you're in the market for an auto key or replacement, visit your local Ace hardware store. In addition to traditional keys and key fobs, you'll find a wide assortment of auto accessories and maintenance tools, too.
3. Check the Gear Selector
A spare key for your car is a good idea. You never know when you'll lose your primary key or have it locked inside the vehicle. A spare key can help you get to the road more quickly and also save you money over the course of time. In the past, you could have a spare key made at the local hardware store, or even the department of auto parts of your dealership. Nowadays it's usually more cost-effective and practical to have a spare key made at an automotive locksmith.
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 vehicle to the mechanic regularly and ensuring you are following your driving habits. This includes ensuring that you always get to a stop before shifting gears and using the correct method when engaging the drive-away feature.
Another essential 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 major role in ensuring that you get the most performance from your vehicle. If you notice it's becoming harder to change gears, or your car seems to struggle to translate your actions to the transmission, this could be an indication that the selector bushing is required to be replaced.
It's also an excellent idea to cut spare keys for your vehicle when the original keys begin to wear out or break down. While this may seem like a hassle, it's an alternative to having your vehicle stolen or locked in the trunk!
4. Check the Battery
The battery in the key fob has a life-span that is limited and will eventually need to be replaced. The fob's power is used to send signals from the fob to the key cylinder.
It could be time to replace the key fob if its buttons aren't working anymore. A new battery can bring back the functionality of the buttons on the key. It is important to ensure that the new battery has been properly inserted. To do this you must carefully remove the key fob with the flat screwdriver or coin and then examine the old battery to determine the correct orientation. The battery should look like the shape of a coin, with an plus sign and a negative sign. Insert the new battery in the same direction as the previous one to avoid any damage.
A misalignment in the tumblers of the key cylinder is one common issue that prevents the ignition key from turning. A gentle tapping of the key with a mallet made of rubber or the handle of a screwdriver could align these tumblers and allow the key to turn.
The key cylinder can also be sluggish or blocked over time. A small amount of penetrating oils can help remove any obstructions and increase the flow of the key inside the lock cylinder. It is recommended to use a silicone spray or graphite lubricant when trying to solve this issue. It is important to note that if the issue persists after trying these tips, it is likely to be a serious issue with the ignition switch itself that needs to be professionally examined by a certified auto technician. Attempting to repair this part without the proper knowledge could result in further damage and costly repairs. This is why it's crucial to enlist the services of an experienced and licensed professional auto locksmith.
5. Check the ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylinder, when functioning correctly, makes sure that the key fits perfectly into the ignition socket and allows 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 malfunctioning electronic anti-theft component to electrical issues, such as a power outage or a dead battery, being unable to turn the ignition key can be a huge hassle. This issue must be resolved promptly to avoid any further issues such as being stranded and requiring costly repairs. It also helps ensure that the car is reliable and safe.
repair car key that isn't able to turn on the ignition typically suggests underlying issues with the ignition or the key switch. There are many solutions to the problem. You can clean the ignition cylinder and remove any obstructions by jiggling the steering wheel, checking the position of the gear selector, examining the key and possibly replacing it, examining the voltage and inspecting the key. These simple steps can solve many common issues and allow you to get back on the road as quickly as possible.
In rare cases it is possible to realign the ignition cylinder to restore normal function. Fortunately, locksmiths who are professionals and mechanics have the knowledge and the right tools to perform this delicate task. This requires careful adjustment of the internal components of the cylinder, ensuring that they are aligned properly and allowing the ignition key to turn smoothly and fit into the ignition. Doing this can dramatically prolong the life of your ignition system, while also maintaining optimal performance and reliability. If you have an additional key, use it to see if the problem is with the original key.