15 Up-And-Coming Car Key Repair Bloggers You Need To See
Car Key Repair Tips
If you follow the right guidelines fixing your car keys is simple. You can avoid a lot of issues by keeping your keys and lock cylinder well-lubricated.
Before you call a locksmith or go to the dealership, you can try using needle-nosed pliers and penetrating oils to remove the broken key from the cylinder of your ignition. Be gentle and patient to avoid causing further damage.
1. Turn off the Key Ignition
You're at the petrol station, picking up groceries or just heading home after a long day when you put your car keys in the ignition and it won't turn. It can be frustrating particularly when your appointment is late.
There are many things that can go wrong with your car keys. Fortunately, most of these issues are easy to repair. First, check to see whether car key fob repairs is stuck. It's normal for people to pull the wrong key off the table or on the keychain. If the key is securely in the cylinder, and not dirty or loose, it's likely to work.
If it does not work try using graphite lubricant. If it still doesn't work, try using some graphite oil. Spray the lubricant into the cylinder, then insert the key, then remove it a few more times to get the lubricant all over the cylinder.
If you can't start your vehicle, it might be time to replace your key. If the teeth on your key are worn down, it will be very difficult for them to connect the pins of the cylinder. A new key will not cost much however it's worth it if the key is stuck in the ignition.
Another issue that could hinder your car's start is if the gear selector is set to "P" (park). In this case, examine the shifter and make sure that it's in the right position to turn the key. If you are not sure about fixing the issue on your own, ask an experienced technician from an AutoZone store diagnose and repair the issue.
2. Lubricate the Ignition Socket
The ignition switch may be stuck, which prevents it from turning. If this is the situation you can apply pressure with the help of a screwdriver to see whether it turns. If not, you will have to replace it.
Another reason why your key might not work is because it's the wrong key for your car. This is a common mistake that many people make and it's easy to fix. Make sure the key is the right type and hasn't been compromised because of being damaged or dropped.
If you're certain that the key is the correct one, you can lubricate it. This will remove any dirt particles that could hinder it from turning. It is recommended to apply a silicone-based lubricant as this will prevent dirt from accumulating and blocking the keyhole. If this isn't working, the key cylinder might be blocked or worn. If so, you'll need to have a new car key made or replace the lock cylinder.
You could also spray a small amount of grease into the keyhole and gently play with it. It's a good idea to try loosening any dirt that could hinder the key from getting into the lock cylinder.
It's time to replace the battery if you haven’t done so in some time. Change the battery on modern key fobs is quite simple and is usually a taking the two halves open using the help of a screwdriver and removing the old battery. Then, you can insert the new one in 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 broad assortment of tools for maintenance and auto repair, too.
3. Check the Gear Selector
A spare key for your car is a great idea. You never 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 faster and also save you money over the course of time. In the past the spare key could be cut at the local hardware store, or at the auto parts department at the dealership. Nowadays it's usually more cost-effective and practical to have a spare key made at an automotive locksmith.
Regular maintenance is essential to keep your Mercedes Benz running at its top performance. This means taking your vehicle to the shop for regular maintenance and ensuring you are following your driving habits. This includes making sure that you always come to a complete stop before shifting gears, and following the correct method when engaging the drive-away feature.
Another important aspect of taking care of your Mercedes Benz is to be aware of any issues with the gear selector bushing. This tiny component is essential for the automatic transmission and plays a crucial role in ensuring that you get the most performance out of your vehicle. If you notice it's becoming more difficult to shift gears or your car is beginning to be struggling to translate your actions into the transmission, this is an indication that the selector bushing is in need of replacement.
It's also recommended to have spare keys cut for your vehicle if the originals begin to wear out or break down. This might seem like an inconvenience, but it's much better than having your car stolen or locked inside the trunk.
4. Check the Battery
The battery of the key fob has a limited life span and eventually has to be replaced. The fob's power is used to transmit signals from the fob to the key cylinder.
It may be time to replace the key fob if its buttons are not responding. A new battery can bring back functionality to the button functions of the key. It's essential to make sure that the new battery is installed correctly. To do so take care to open the key fob using a flat screwdriver or a coin and examine the old battery for the correct orientation. The battery should resemble an actual coin and include a plus and minus sign. Place the new battery in the same direction as the original one to avoid any damage.
A common issue that can hinder the key from turning in the ignition is a misalignment in the tumblers of the key cylinder. A gentle tapping of the key with a mallet made of rubber or the handle of a screwdriver can adjust these tumblers, allowing the key to turn.
In time, the cylinder of the key can also get blocked or even stuck. A small amount of penetrating lubricant will help remove any obstructions and improve the speed of the key's movement within the lock cylinder. It is advised to use silicone spray or graphite lubricant while trying to solve this problem. It is important to note that if the issue continues after following these suggestions it could be a serious problem with the ignition switch, which should be professionally examined by a qualified auto technician. Repairing this part without proper training can lead to additional damage and costly repairs. This is why it's crucial 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 fits perfectly into the ignition socket and allows the vehicle to be started. However, various problems can impede proper ignition cylinder function. Inability to turn a car key is a hassle. It could be due to mechanical issues such as a steering lock, an electronic component that is dead and stops theft, or electrical problems like a power loss or a dead battery. This issue must be resolved promptly to avoid any further issues like being stuck and having to pay for costly repairs. It also helps ensure that the car is safe and secure.
If your car key won't turn, it usually means that there is a problem with the ignition switch or key. There are many solutions to the issue. This includes moving the steering wheel around and confirming the gear selector's position as well as inspecting and replacing the key, checking the battery voltage, and cleaning the cylinder of the ignition to clear any obstructions. These simple solutions can help you solve many common problems.
In rare instances the ignition cylinder might need to be realigned to restore normal functionality. Luckily, locksmiths who are professional and mechanics have the necessary skills and tools that are specifically designed to perform this delicate task. This involves carefully adjusting the internal components of the cylinder to ensure that they are properly aligned so that the ignition key to rotate smoothly and seamlessly into the ignition. Performing this task can significantly extend the lifespan of your ignition system, while ensuring optimal performance and reliability. If you have an extra key, use it to determine if the problem is with the original key.