Don't Make This Mistake With Your Car Key Repair
With the right advice, car key repair is easy. You can avoid a variety of issues by keeping your keys and lock cylinder well-lubricated.
Before you contact a locksmith or visit a dealership, you can try using pliers that have needles and needles as well as penetrating oils to remove the broken key from the cylinder of your ignition. Be gentle and patient to avoid causing more damage.
1. Turn off the Key Ignition
You're at the station, picking up groceries or heading home after a long work day. you put your car keys in the ignition and it doesn't turn. It can be a frustrating experience particularly when you're already overdue.
There are several things that can be wrong with your car keys. Fortunately, the majority of these problems are easily fixed. First, you must determine whether the key is stuck. It's not uncommon for people to pull the wrong key from the table or keychain. If the key is firmly in the cylinder, and isn't dirty or loose, it should function.
Make sure to turn the key a few times in the ignition, taking care not to damage it with too much pressure or force. If that doesn't work then try a graphite-based grease. Spray it in the cylinder, then insert and take off the key several times to push the lubricant into all the parts of the cylinder.
If you're still unable to get your vehicle to start, it might be time to replace your key. If the teeth on your key are worn, they'll have a hard time engaging the pins on the cylinder. A new key isn't expensive and will be worth the investment in the event that you're constantly finding your car key stuck in the ignition.
If the gear selector is set to "P" (park), this could also prevent your car from starting. In this case, check the shifter and be sure it's in the correct position to turn the key. If you are not sure about fixing the issue yourself, have a trusted professional at an AutoZone store identify and repair the problem.
2. Lubricate the Ignition Socket
The ignition switch may be stuck, preventing it from turning. If this is the case, you can apply pressure using a screwdriver and see whether it turns. If not, you will have to replace it.
It's possible that you've got the wrong key. This is a common mistake that many make and it's simple to repair. Check whether the key hasn't been damaged or dropped.
If you're certain that you have the correct one, then lubricate it. This will remove any dirt particles which may be hindering it from turning. A silicone-based lubricant is ideal, as it will prevent dirt from accumulating and blocking the keyhole in the future. If this isn't working the key cylinder could be clogged or worn out. If this is the case, you'll need to have a new car key made or replace the lock cylinder.
You can also spray a bit of oil in the keyhole and gently jiggle it. This can remove any dirt that could be keeping the key from entering the lock cylinder, and it's worth a try.
It's time to replace the battery if you haven’t done so in a while. The process of changing the battery in modern key fobs is quite simple, and it's usually just an issue of tearing the two halves open using an screwdriver to their seams and removing the old one. Then, put in the new one in the same manner and test it.
If you're in need of a car key or replacement, head to your local Ace hardware store. You will also find auto accessories and maintenance equipment, in addition to traditional key fobs and keys.
3. Check the Selector of the Gear Selector
When it concerns your car having a spare car key is a good idea. After all, you never know when you'll lose your primary key or lock it inside the vehicle. Having a spare can help you get back on the road quicker and also save you money in the end. In the past keys for spares could be cut at the local hardware store or in the auto parts department at the dealership. Nowadays it's more economical and convenient to have a spare key cut at an automotive locksmith.
Regular maintenance is essential to keep your Mercedes Benz running at its top performance. This means taking your car to the mechanic regularly and taking care of your driving habits. This includes making sure that you always come to a complete stop before shifting gears and using the correct technique when using the drive-away feature.
Another essential aspect of taking care of your Mercedes Benz is to be aware of any issues with the bushing for the gear selector. This small component is crucial for the automatic transmission and plays an important part in ensuring you get the best performance from your vehicle. If you notice it is becoming harder to shift gears, or if your vehicle isn't translating your actions into the transmission the selector bushing could require replacement.
It's also a good idea to have spare keys cut for your vehicle when the originals begin to wear out or break down. Although this might seem like an inconvenience, it's much better than having your car stolen or locked in the trunk!
4. Check the Battery
The key fob's battery 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.
If the key fob's buttons do not respond quickly when pressed, it could be time to replace the battery. A new battery will bring back the functionality of the button functions of the key. It's essential to make sure that the new battery is placed correctly. To do so, carefully open the key fob using a flat screwdriver or a coin and examine the old battery for the correct orientation. The battery should look like an actual coin and include an X and minus symbol. Insert the new battery with the same orientation to avoid internal or external damage.
A misalignment of 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.
Over time, the cylinder of the key may also become clogged 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. When addressing this problem, it is recommended that you use either graphite or silicone spray. If the issue continues, it may be a serious problem with the ignition switch. A certified auto technician should look at the switch with care when this happens. Attempting to repair this part without the proper knowledge could result in further damage and costly repairs. It is important to hire an auto locksmith that is licensed and has experience.
5. Check the ignition Cylinder
The ignition cylinder is an intricate piece of machinery that, when operating properly, ensures that the key is inserted into the ignition socket and permits the vehicle to start. 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 or an electronic component that is dead and prevents theft, or electrical issues, like a power failure or a flat battery. This problem should be addressed immediately to avoid further problems like being stranded and incurring expensive repairs. It also helps ensure that the car is safe and secure.
A car key that isn't able to turn on the ignition typically suggests underlying issues with the ignition or the key switch. There are a variety of solutions to the problem. You can clean the cylinder of ignition and eliminate any obstructions by jiggling your steering wheel, examining the position of the gear selector, inspecting the key and possibly replacing it, checking the voltage and examining the key. These simple solutions can resolve many common problems and get you back on the road quickly.
In rare instances, the ignition cylinder may require re-alignment to restore normal function. Professional mechanics and locksmiths are armed with the right tools and know-how to complete this delicate job. This process involves meticulously changing the internal components of the cylinder, making sure that they are aligned properly and allow the key to slide into and smoothly in the ignition. This task can extend the longevity of your ignition system and maintain the highest level of performance. If you have an extra key, you can try using it to determine if the problem is related to the original key or the ignition cylinder.