Car Key Repair Tips
If you follow the right guidelines, car key repair is easy. Keep your keys and lock cylinders well lubricated to avoid many issues.
Before you contact a locksmith or visit the dealership, try using needle-nosed pliers and penetrating oils to remove a broken piece of key from your ignition cylinder. Be gentle and patient to avoid causing more damage.
1. Make sure you turn off the ignition key.
You're at a station, you're buying groceries, or you're going home after an extended day of work, and your car won't start. It can be very frustrating, especially if you're already behind on your appointment.
There are many possibilities for problems with your car key. Fortunately, most of these issues are simple to repair. First, ensure that the key is actually stuck. It's not common for people to grab the wrong key from the table or their keychain, however, if the key fits well in the cylinder and isn't dirty or loose it should be able for you to start your vehicle.
Wiggle try what she says in the ignition, taking care not to scratch it with too much pressure or force. If this doesn't work, try some graphite grease. Spray it in the cylinder and insert and take off the key a few times to work the lubricant through all wards of the cylinder.
If you can't start your car, it could be time to replace the key. If your key teeth are worn, they'll struggle to engage the pins on the cylinder. A new key won't cost much however it's worth it if the key is stuck in the ignition.
One other issue that could stop your car from starting is if the gear selector is set to "P" (park). In this situation you'll need to examine the shift lever to ensure that it's in the proper position to turn the key. If you're not confident about fixing the issue yourself, have an experienced technician from an AutoZone store identify and repair the problem.
2. Lubricate the Ignition Socket
The ignition switch might be stuck, preventing it from turning. If this is the case, apply pressure to it using a screwdriver and see whether it will move. If it doesn't move then you'll need to replace it.
It's possible you've got the wrong key. This is a common mistake that many make and it's simple to fix. Verify that the key has not been damaged or dropped.
If you're sure the key is the correct one, then lubricate it. This will release any dirt particles that could hinder it from turning. It is recommended to make use of 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. If so, you'll have to have a new car key or replace the lock cylinder.
You can also spray a bit of grease into the keyhole and gently jiggle it. This will loosen any dirt hindering the key from entering the lock cylinder, so it's a good idea to give it a go.
It's time to change the battery if you haven’t done it in the past few months. It's simple to replace 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 manner and then test it.
Ace Hardware is the best place to go if you require an entirely new car key. In addition to traditional keys and key fobs, you'll find a broad assortment of tools for maintenance and auto repair as well.
3. Check the Selector of the Gear Selector
When it comes to your car, having a spare key is a good idea. You never know when you might lose your main key or put it in the car. A spare key can allow you to get on the road quicker and 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, however, it's generally more cost-effective and convenient to have a spare key made at an automotive locksmith.
One of the most important ways to keep your Mercedes Benz in optimal condition is to treat routine maintenance seriously. This means taking your car to a mechanic regularly for maintenance and paying attention to your driving habits. This includes ensuring that you always stop completely 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 any issues that may arise with the bushing for the gear selector. This small part is vital for the automatic transmission and plays a major part in ensuring you get the most performance out of your vehicle. If you notice it is becoming harder to shift gears, or your vehicle isn't translating your actions to the transmission the selector bushing could require replacement.
It's also an excellent idea to cut spare keys for your vehicle if the original keys wear out or break down. Although it may seem like a hassle, it's a far better alternative to having your car stolen or locked in the trunk!
4. Check the Battery
The battery inside the key fob has a limited life span and will eventually have to be replaced. The ignition system of a car relies on the fob's battery to transmit signals to the key cylinder.
It might be time to replace the key fob if its buttons are not responding. A new battery can restore function of the buttons on the key. It is crucial to ensure that the new battery is inserted correctly. To do this take care to remove the key fob with a flat screwdriver or a coin and examine the battery that was used to ensure proper orientation. The battery should resemble an actual coin and include an X and minus symbol. Replace the battery using the same orientation to avoid internal or external damage.
One common issue that can prevent the key from turning the ignition is a misalignment in the tumblers of the key cylinder. A gentle tapping of the key with a rubber mallet or the handle of a screwdriver can realign these tumblers and allow the key to turn.
In time, the cylinder for the key can also get blocked or stuck. A small amount penetrating oil can help 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 apply graphite or silicone spray. It is crucial to note that if the problem persists after following these suggestions it could be to be a serious issue with the ignition switch itself, which should be professionally examined by a qualified auto technician. It's a risk to repair this part yourself if you don't have the right training. This could result in additional damage and expensive repairs. It is essential to employ a professional auto locksmith who is licensed and has experience.
5. Check the ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylinder is a complex piece of machinery that, if operating correctly, ensures that the key fits comfortably into the ignition socket and permits the vehicle to start. However, various problems can impede proper ignition cylinder function. From mechanical issues such as the lock on the steering wheel or a dead electronic anti-theft component to electrical issues, including a power outage or a dead battery, an inability to turn the ignition key can be a major hassle. Addressing this problem promptly helps to avoid further issues like being stuck or requiring costly repairs, while making sure that the car is safe and secure to drive.
A car key that won't turn on the ignition typically signals underlying problems with either the ignition switch 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, examining the position of the gear selector, inspecting the key and possibly replacing it, examining the voltage and examining the key. These simple solutions can resolve many common problems and get you back on the road in no time.
In rare instances it might be necessary to re-align the cylinder of ignition to restore normal function. Professional mechanics and locksmiths are armed with the right tools and expertise to perform this delicate task. This requires careful adjustment of the internal parts of the cylinder so that they are aligned correctly, allowing the ignition key to rotate smoothly and fit into the ignition. Performing this task can significantly extend the lifespan of your ignition system while also maintaining optimal performance and reliability. If you have an extra key, make use of it to see if the problem is with the original key.