Auto Key Repair - Common Problems With Car Keys
Car keys are often damaged at the most inconvenient times. The reasons for this happen due to many reasons and can be difficult to resolve.
To stop this from happening to you, implement strategies like lubricating keyholes and having spare keys. Keep on the lookout for signs that your car keys needs to be replaced.
Ignition Cylinder Issues
The ignition cylinder is a sophisticated mechanism that contains many small elements, and it's uncommon for these components to wear out over time. If this happens the key might not fit snugly inside the ignition or it may not rotate, and if left unattended, the issue could become more serious and even lead to your engine shutting off when you drive. Locksmiths can help fix these issues.
The most common sign of an ignition cylinder problem is that your key won't turn on the ignition. This is due to the tumblers within the cylinder becoming worn out, which can make it hard to fit the ignition key. You may need to fiddle with or jiggle it until it moves. This problem can often be solved by spraying a graphite or silicone lubricant over the key before inserting it into the cylinder.
You can tap the cylinder using the screwdriver's handle. This is a simple method of resetting your tumblers, without damaging the ignition cylinder or your key. However, you should always make use of a mallet made of rubber or the screwdriver's handle to tap the cylinder, and avoid using excessive force.
Another possibility is that you're using the wrong kind of key for your car. The wrong type of key could hinder the ignition cylinder from turning correctly. Different car brands have different key profiles and security features. Make sure that the key hasn't been damaged, as this could affect its ability to fit into the cylinder and turn it. Consult your car's manufacturer for help if you're not certain of the kind of key you should purchase.
Bent Key
A bent key may seem ineffective, but it's actually not. It can still allow you to access the lock, but not as effortlessly as if it were straight. The appearance of a bent key in your life is usually a sign that you need to be flexible, adaptable and willing to take the things you have instead of trying to force it to fit into the roles that society expects you to fulfill. It encourages you embrace resilience and to search for an understanding of the complexities of life's twists, turns and challenges.
You can straighten your own car key by using pliers for one end and then bending it back into position. This is an in-between solution, and the key could misalign and re-align shortly afterward. It is therefore recommended to visit a locksmith as soon as you can to get the key fixed.
A professional locksmith is able to repair a bent or damaged key, but it will depend on the extent of the damage and how clear the cuts are on the key. In some instances the key may have to be replaced completely. In such cases it is crucial to have a spare car key so you can get into your vehicle in case the lock is damaged once more. It's important to check that the new key has been cut correctly to ensure that it will fit the lock and the ignition cylinder. This is especially important for Ford keys that have the blade that is detached from the body of the key. They can be extremely difficult to cut precisely.
Gear Selector Issues
Your Mercedes-Benz is a top-performing vehicle that you expect to respond in a timely manner when you shift gears. If your car shakes when you make shifts it could be a transmission problem. You should take it to the mechanic immediately. The gear selector, a small component of your transmission, isn't easy to identify but is crucial for your car to perform as it should. A malfunctioning selector could cause your car to shift into a wrong gear, which can result in costly transmission damage.
It's good to know that Mercedes owners can avoid issues with gear selection by maintaining their vehicles and taking care of routine maintenance. These steps will prevent dirt and debris from entering the gear selector. This is the main reason for a bad gear selection.
Gear selector problems can include difficulty in shifting between positions, failure to lock into place or a clunking noise when shifting. These problems are often caused by mechanical issues that require professional diagnosis.
The clutch in your transmission could be worn out or damaged. This could result in the gear selector not being able to select the correct gear, or your Mercedes shifting into the incorrect gears. It's best to schedule regular maintenance appointments with our team of mechanics. This gives us to spot small issues before they become costly issues for your Mercedes. It's also best to use only high-quality transmission oil for your Mercedes. This will keep your engine from working too hard and becoming too hot.
Dead Battery
If your car doesn't start when you turn the key it's likely that the battery is dying or dead. You will need to replace batteries that are completely dead and cannot be charged. However there are a few ways to revive a dead battery and get it back up to full capacity.
One of the easiest ways to solve a dead battery is to jump it with another vehicle that is operating. This process uses two jumper cables to provide the power to your vehicle. Make sure you turn off the ignition in both vehicles and connect the red (positive) cable from your working vehicle's battery to the positive terminal of your dead battery. Connect the black (negative cable) from your working vehicle’s battery to a non-painted metal area on the vehicle, such as a clean bolt. This will ground the vehicle.
Another way to repair dead batteries is to recharge it using charger. This is usually done with an acid lead 12 volt battery. If your battery is older than 3 years old, it could have gone through the natural process known as sulfation which could cause permanent damage.
Sulfation occurs when the negative plates of your battery form an sulfate crystal layer that hinders their ability to accept and transmit electricity. It's an extremely simple procedure that can be accomplished by using a battery charger and a few common items. To complete the task, you will need safety goggles and rubber gloves, along with a battery charger, jump starters, a voltmeter and an apron.
Ignition Socket Problems
A key that won't turn in the ignition socket is frustrating. However there are a few options you can do to resolve the problem.
First, check to make sure that there aren't any obstructions within the cylinder. Make use of a flashlight to look inside the cylinder, and then remove any obstructions. You can spray penetrating oils through the keyhole in order to make the damaged piece easier to remove. Be cautious not to spill the oil on any electrical parts However.
Another option is to make use of a tackhammer to tap the ignition switch to loosen the pins within of it. This will allow them to drop and allow you to insert your key and turn it. Be careful not to hit too hard, as you could end up damaging the switch as well as other components of your vehicle.
If you're still having trouble turning the key, it might be time to call in a professional. The forceful effort to turn a broken key can cause further damage and even damage the cylinder of your ignition. Luckily, professional automotive locksmiths are knowledgeable of the best methods and tools to extract broken keys without further causing damage to your vehicle.
If remote key repairs do not turn in the ignition this could be due to some common problems. Examine the steering wheel, gear selection and battery before calling in a professional. If you're not sure about any of these steps, refer to the owner's manual for specific instructions or call an expert. A professional can assess your situation and give you the most appropriate advice on what to do. They'll also help identify any other issues you may have with your car keys or lock.