Full Content
If you follow the right guidelines fixing your car keys is simple. Keep your keys and lock cylinders well lubricated to avoid many issues.
Before you call a locksmith, or go to 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. Knock on the ignition key
You're at a station, you're buying groceries, or you're heading home after an extended day of work, and your car will not start. It can be frustrating especially when you're already late.
There are many things that could be wrong with your car key. Fortunately, most of these problems are easy to repair. First, you must determine whether the key is stuck. It's common for people to pick the wrong key from the table or keychain. If the key is securely inserted into the cylinder, and not dirty or loose, it should function.
If it still isn't working try using graphite lubricant. If it still doesn't work try using graphite oil. Spray the lubricant into the cylinder, insert the key, then remove it a few more times to spread the lubricant over the cylinder.
If you still can't get your car to start, it might be time to change your key. If the teeth on your key are worn out, they'll be unable to engage the pins on the cylinder. A new key will not cost a lot however it's worth it if your key keeps getting stuck in the ignition.
If the gear selector is set to "P" (park), this could also prevent your car from being started. In this situation, you need to check the shifter and make sure it's in the correct position to turn the key. If you are not confident about fixing the issue yourself, have an experienced technician from an AutoZone store identify and repair the issue.
2. Lubricate the Ignition Socket
The ignition switch could be stuck, which prevents it from turning. If this is the case, you can apply pressure with a screwdriver to see whether it moves. If it isn't moving, you will have to replace it.
It's possible you've got the wrong key. This is a blunder that many people make, but it's simple to repair. Check that the key hasn't been damaged or dropped.
If you are sure that the key is working make sure to lubricate it in order to eliminate any dirt particles that could hinder it from turning. A silicone-based lubricant works best because it prevents dirt from accumulating and blocking the keyhole in the future. If this isn't working, it could be that the key cylinder is damaged or blocked. If so, you'll have to have a new car key or replace the lock cylinder.
You might also try spraying a little lubricant into the keyhole and jiggling it gently. It is worth trying to remove any dirt that may be preventing the key from getting into the lock cylinder.
In the end, if you haven't changed the battery in your key fob recently then it's the right time to do it. 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 a screwdriver at their seams and popping out the old battery. Insert the new battery in the same way and test it.
If you're in need of car keys or replacement, go to your local Ace hardware store. In addition to traditional keys and key fobs, you'll find a wide selection of automobile accessories and maintenance tools as well.
3. Check the Selector of the Gear Selector
A spare key for your car is a fantastic idea. You never know when you'll lose your primary key or lock it inside the vehicle. A spare key can help you get on the road quicker and can save you money over the course of time. In the past the spare key could be made at your local hardware store, or at the auto parts department at the dealership. Nowadays, it's generally 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 highest performance. This means bringing your vehicle to the mechanic regularly and taking care of your driving habits. This means you must always stop completely before changing gears, and follow the correct method when using the drive-away function.
Be aware of any issues with the gear selector bushing when caring for your Mercedes Benz. This small part is crucial to the operation of your automatic transmission, and plays a major part in ensuring you're getting the best performance from your vehicle. If you are noticing it's becoming harder to shift gears, or if your vehicle isn't able to translate your actions to the transmission the selector bushing might need to be replaced.
It's also an excellent idea to have spare keys cut to fit your vehicle when the originals begin to wear out or break down. This may be a hassle, but it's better than having your car stolen or locked inside the trunk.
4. Check the Battery
The battery inside the fob's key has a limited life span and will eventually have to be replaced. The ignition system of a car relies on the fob's battery in order to send signals to the key cylinder.
It may be time to replace the key fob if its buttons are no longer responsive. A new battery can bring back functionality to the button functions of the key. It's essential to ensure that the new battery is placed correctly. To do this, carefully remove the keyfob with a flat-headed screwdriver or coin and examine the battery that was used to ensure it's positioned correctly. The battery should resemble a coin and have a plus and minus sign. Place the new battery in the same orientation as the previous one to avoid any damage.
One of the most common issues that hinder the key from turning in the ignition is a misalignment of the tumblers in the key cylinder. Gently tapping the key with a rubber mallet or the screwdriver's handle can realign these tumblers and allow the key to turn.
The key cylinder could also be sluggish or blocked in time. A small amount of penetrating lubricant can help clear out any obstructions, and help 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. If the issue continues, it may be a serious problem with the ignition switch. A certified auto technician should inspect the switch professionally in the event that this is the case. If you attempt to repair this component without the proper knowledge could lead to additional damage and costly repairs. It is crucial 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 fits comfortably into the ignition socket, allowing the vehicle to start. However, various problems can impede proper ignition cylinder function. The inability to turn a car key can be a frustrating. It could be due to mechanical issues such as a steering lock an electronic component that is dead and hinders theft, or electrical problems such as a power outage or a dead battery. This problem should be addressed promptly to avoid any further issues like being stuck and having to pay for costly repairs. It will also ensure that the car is secure and safe.
A car key that doesn't turn in the ignition usually suggests underlying issues with the ignition switch or the key switch. There are fortunately, a variety of practical solutions for addressing the problem. You can clean the cylinder of ignition and eliminate any obstructions by turning your steering wheel, examining the position of the gear selector, inspecting the key and possibly replacing it, checking the voltage and checking the key. These simple solutions can solve many common issues and allow you to get back on the road quickly.
In rare instances, it may be necessary to re-align the cylinder of ignition to restore normal function. Fortunately, locksmiths who are professionals and mechanics have the necessary skills and tools that are specifically designed to accomplish this delicate job. This involves meticulously adjusting the internal components of the cylinder to ensure that they are in the right alignment and allow the key to slide into and smoothly inside the ignition. This can extend the lifespan of your ignition system, and help maintain the highest level of performance. If you have an additional key, make use of it to determine if the problem is with the original key.