Auto Key Repair - Common Problems With Car Keys
The car keys often break at the worst possible times. The reasons for this happen due to a number of reasons and are often difficult to fix.
To stop this from occurring to you, adopt strategies like lubricating keyholes and having spare keys. Also, be on the lookout for signs that your key needs to get replaced.
Ignition Cylinder Problems

The ignition cylinder is a sophisticated mechanism that has many tiny aspects, and it's not common for these parts to wear out over time. If this occurs, the key may not fit properly in the ignition, or it may not turn. If left unattended this problem can become more grave and result in the engine being shut down while you're driving. Fortunately, these issues are usually fixed by a locksmith in your area.
The most common sign of an ignition cylinder problem is that the key won't move in the ignition. This is caused by the tumblers inside the cylinder deteriorating and making it difficult to insert the key and force you to fiddle around with it in order to get it to move. Most of the time, this issue can be fixed by applying a graphite or silicone lubricant to the key before inserting it into the cylinder.
Alternately, you could try tapping the cylinder lightly using the screwdriver's handle. This is a great way to realign the tumblers without causing damage to your key or the ignition cylinder. You should never use excessive force when tapping the cylinder. Instead, you should use a rubber mallet, or the handle of the screwdriver.
Another possibility is that you're using the wrong type of key for your vehicle. The wrong key type can prevent the ignition cylinder from turning properly. Different car brands have different key profiles and security features. It is also important to ensure that the key isn't damaged in any way, since it could hinder its ability to fit and turn the cylinder. Ask the manufacturer of your vehicle for help if you're not certain of the type of key to get.
Bent Key
It might seem like bent keys are useless however this isn't the case. It can still allow you to access the lock, but not as effortlessly as if it was straight. The appearance of bent keys in your life is often an indication that you need to be flexible, adaptable and willing to take what you have instead of trying to make it fit into the roles society expects you to play. It helps you to embrace resilience and to seek a deeper understanding of the complexities of life's twists, turns and challenges.
You can try to straighten your car keys yourself by holding one end of the key with the help of pliers, and using your hands to bend it back into place. This is only an interim solution and the key could misalign again shortly thereafter. It is therefore recommended to visit an expert locksmith as soon as possible to get the key repaired.
A skilled locksmith can usually repair a bent or damaged key, but it will depend on the extent of damage and how well-defined the cuts are on the key. In some cases keys, they may need to be replaced completely. In such cases you'll want to make sure that you have a spare key made in order to get back into your vehicle if the lock is damaged in the future. It is also a good idea to make sure that the key is cut correctly to fit the lock and the ignition cylinder. This is particularly important for Ford keys where the blade separates from the body. These keys are extremely difficult to cut accurately.
Issues with Gear Selectors
Your Mercedes-Benz is a high-performance vehicle that is expected to respond appropriately when you shift gears. If your car jerks during gear changes, it could be a transmission problem. It is recommended to be able to identify the issue right away. The gear selector, a minor component of your transmission, can be difficult to determine but is vital for your car to perform in the way it ought to. A malfunctioning gear selector could result in your car shifting into the wrong gear and result in costly damage to the transmission.
It's important to be aware that Mercedes owners can prevent problems with gear selection by keeping their vehicles clean and performing regular maintenance. These steps will prevent dirt and debris from entering the gear selector. This is the main reason for a bad selection of gears.
Issues with the gear selector could include problems moving through positions, failure to lock in place or even the sound of a clunking when you shift. These issues are usually 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 proper gear, and your Mercedes shifting into the wrong gears. It's best to schedule regular maintenance appointments with our team of mechanics. This will enable us to detect small issues before they become costly issues for your Mercedes. remote car key repair near me 's also a good idea for your Mercedes to use high-quality transmission oils. This will ensure that your transmission and engine aren't getting too hot, which could also cause problems with the gear selector.
Dead Battery
If your car doesn't start when you turn the key, it is likely that the battery is dying or dead. If you have a dead battery that can't keep a charge, you'll need to replace it. There are many ways to revive and bring back the battery back to its full strength.
Jumping a dead vehicle with another battery is the simplest method to fix the dead battery. This method uses two jumper cables to charge your vehicle. Connect the red (positive cable) from the battery of your working vehicle to the positive terminal of your dead battery. Then connect the black (negative) cable from the battery of your working vehicle back to an unpainted metal spot such as a clean bolt the vehicle to ground it.
Recharging a dead battery by using an electric charger is another method to solve the problem. This is typically done using a 12 volt lead acid battery. If your battery is older than 3 years old, it could have gone through a natural process called sulfation that can cause permanent damage.
Sulfation happens when the negative plates in the battery form a layer of sulfate crystals that limit its ability to receive and deliver electricity. Fortunately, it's a relatively simple process that can be completed with a basic battery charger and a few common items. To complete the task, you will need safety goggles and rubber gloves as well as batteries, chargers and jump starters, a voltmeter, and an apron.
Ignition Socket Problems
A key that won't turn in the ignition socket is frustrating. There are a few ways to fix this problem.
First, check to ensure that there are no obstructions in the cylinder. Utilize a flashlight to view inside the cylinder and eliminate any obstructions. You can spray some penetrating oils through the keyhole to make the broken piece easier to remove. You should be careful not spraying the oil onto any electronic components.
Another option is to make use of a tackhammer to tap the ignition switch to loosen the pins inside of it. This will allow them to fall into the switch, allowing you to insert and turn your key. Be careful not to hit too hard, or you could damage the switch and other parts of your vehicle.
If you still have trouble turning the key it might be the right time to contact a professional. The forceful effort to turn a broken key could cause further damage and even damage the cylinder of your ignition. Fortunately, professional automotive locksmiths are well-versed in the right tools and techniques to remove broken keys without further causing damage to your vehicle.
If your car's keys won't turn in the ignition, it's likely due to a variety of common issues. Examine the steering wheel, gear selection, and battery before calling in an expert. If you are unsure of the steps listed above, refer to the owner's manual for specific directions, or call a professional. A professional can assess your situation and give you the best advice on what to do. They'll also help determine any other issues you could have with your car key or lock.