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Car Key Repair Tips If you follow the right guidelines fixing your car keys is easy. Keep your locks and keys well-lubricated to avoid a variety of issues. Make use of pliers that have a needle nose to remove the damaged piece of key from your ignition cylinder before you call a dealer or a locksmith. Avoid further damage by being patient and gentle. 1. Knock on the ignition key You're at a gas station, you're buying groceries, or you're going home after a long workday when your car will not start. It can be extremely frustrating especially if you're late for your appointment. There are a variety of issues that could be causing problems with your car keys. Fortunately, many of these issues are easy to fix. First, check to see whether the key is stuck. It's common for people to grab the wrong key from the table or keychain. If the key is firmly in the cylinder, and isn't loose or dirty, then it should function. If it isn't working, try using some graphite lubricant. If it doesn't work try using graphite lubricant. Spray the lubricant inside the cylinder, then insert the key, then remove it again to get the lubricant all over the cylinder. If you still can't get your car to start, it may be time to replace your key. If the teeth on your key are worn, they will struggle to engage the pins on the cylinder. A new key shouldn't cost much but it's well worth it if the key is stuck in the ignition. Another issue that could stop your car from starting is if the gear selector is set to “P” (park). In this situation you'll need check the shift lever and ensure that it's in the proper position for turning the key. If you're not confident in repairing the issue yourself, let an experienced professional from an AutoZone store identify and repair the issue. 2. Lubricate the Ignition Socket The ignition switch may be stuck, preventing it from turning. If this is the situation then you can apply pressure using the help of a screwdriver to see if it moves. If not, you'll have to replace it. Another reason why your key may not turn is because it's the wrong key for your vehicle. This is a blunder that many people commit, but it's simple to repair. Verify that the key hasn't been damaged or dropped. If you are sure that the key is correct then lubricate it to remove any dirt particles that may be preventing it from turning. It is recommended to make use of 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 out. If so, you'll need to have a new car key or replace the lock cylinder. You can also try spraying some oil into the keyhole and gently jiggling it. It's a good idea to try loosening any dirt that may be preventing the key from entering into the lock cylinder. It's time to replace the battery if it hasn't been done so in some time. Changing the battery on modern key fobs is quite simple, and it's usually just an issue of tearing the two halves apart with the help of a screwdriver and removing the old battery. Then, put in 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 wide selection of tools for maintenance and auto repair as well. 3. Check the Gear Selector When it concerns your vehicle, having a spare key is a good idea. After all, you never know when you'll lose your primary key or have it locked inside the vehicle. A spare key can allow you to get on the road quicker and can save you money over time. In the past the spare key could be cut at the local hardware store or the auto parts department of the dealership. It's more convenient and cost-effective to have a spare cut by an automotive locksmith in the present. One of the most important things you can do to keep your Mercedes Benz in optimal condition is to treat routine maintenance seriously. This means taking your car to the mechanic regularly for maintenance and paying close attention to your driving habits. This includes making sure you always get to a stop before shifting gears, and following 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 with the gear selector bushing. This small part is vital for the automatic transmission and plays a crucial role in ensuring that you get the most performance from your vehicle. If you notice that it's becoming harder to change gears, or your car seems to be struggling to translate your actions to the transmission, this is an indication that the selector bushing is required to be replaced. It's also a good idea to cut spare keys for your vehicle if the originals begin to wear out or become damaged. This might seem like an inconvenience, but it's better than having your car taken away or locked in the trunk. 4. Check the Battery The battery of the key fob has a limited life span and will eventually need 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 aren't responding quickly to a press, it could be time for a replacement. A new battery can bring back functionality to the button functions of the key. It is essential to make sure that the new battery is installed correctly. To do so, carefully open the key fob using an abrasive screwdriver or a coin and then 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. One of the most common issues that prevent the key from turning in the ignition is a misalignment of the tumblers inside the key cylinder. Gently tapping the key with a rubber mallet or the screwdriver's handle can align these tumblers and allow the key to turn. The key cylinder can also become gummed up or stuck with time. A small amount penetrating oil will help clear any obstructions, and improve the flow of the key inside the lock cylinder. If you are trying to solve this issue it is recommended that you use either graphite or silicone spray. It is crucial to remember that if the issue persists after following these suggestions it could be to be a serious issue with the ignition switch itself and should be assessed by a certified auto technician. It's risky to fix this part yourself without the proper instruction. This could lead to more damage and costly repairs. automotive key repair is why it's essential to seek the assistance of a licensed and experienced professional auto locksmith. 5. Check the Ignition Cylinder The ignition cylinder, when functioning correctly, makes sure that the key fits perfectly into the ignition socket and allows the vehicle to start. However, various problems can impede proper ignition cylinder function. From mechanical problems like a lock for the steering wheel or a dead electronic anti-theft component to electrical issues, such as a power outage or a dead battery, inability to turn the car key can be a huge hassle. This issue must be resolved immediately to avoid further problems like being stranded and incurring expensive repairs. It also helps ensure that the car is safe and secure. If your car key won't turn, it is usually a sign that there is a problem with the ignition switch or key. There are a variety of solutions to the problem. This includes using the steering wheel to jiggle, verifying the gear selector's position, inspecting and possibly replacing the key, checking the battery's voltage, and cleaning the ignition cylinder to clear any obstructions. These simple solutions will help you fix numerous common problems. In rare instances it is possible to adjust the cylinder in the ignition to restore normal function. Professional mechanics and locksmiths are armed with the appropriate tools and expertise to perform this delicate job. This requires careful adjustment of the internal parts of the cylinder, ensuring that they are aligned properly and allowing the ignition key to rotate smoothly and seamlessly into the ignition. This can extend the life of your ignition system and ensure the highest level of performance. If you have an extra key, you can try using it to determine if the issue lies with the key that was originally used or the ignition cylinder.