Car Keys Repair - Common Problems With Car Keys
Car keys can be tricky to keep in the loop. They can get bent or broken, or stolen!
Look through your bag and pockets for them. If you are unable to locate them, try jiggling your key. This can help to remove any minor damage to the lock wafers within of the cylinder.
1. The key is bent
The most frequent issue with car keys is that they can be bent. This is a possibility when you use your key to open your trunk or load groceries into it.
A locksmith is the best choice for this problem, as they have the tools and know-how for removing the bent keys without damaging the lock or ignition. They can also design a new car key on the spot. This is particularly useful if your key has a chip embedded into it.
Keys that are chip-embedded have an electronic transponder built right in that sends a unique signal to the system of your vehicle and then tells it whether or not the key is legal. This type of key can be manufactured by a locksmith, or you can buy an alternative from your dealer. If you have an older key, it's easier to purchase a new one at an establishment like a hardware store or locksmith.
It's a good idea write down the vehicle identification number (VIN) of your key, so that you can give it to whoever makes or repairs it. You can locate the VIN on your dashboard or in the owner's manual. If you do choose to purchase an alternative key, it's a good idea to have the dealer program it to your car. This can take a few days and can cost you upwards of $200.
2. The key is stuck
The car key might be stuck for a variety of reasons. Some of these issues might be specific to a particular automobile type or manufacturer, but most are universal. Here are some of the most frequently-cited reasons why your car key might get stuck in the ignition.
One of the most common reasons for a key becoming stuck in the ignition is dirt and debris build-up. The more grit that you pour into the ignition, there will be more friction between the key's surfaces. This can make it difficult to turn the key or take it off.
Your key could also be damaged. With time, the frequent use of your key will cause it to wear out. You might drop it on a hard floor and crack or bend it in some way. Keys damaged by damage can also get stuck in the ignition as they won't fit properly.
Contacting a locksmith or auto service center is the best thing to do if your key is damaged. They can replace the key for you or help you find a newer, more durable key that will work better with your vehicle's lock cylinder. It's important to know that it is extremely dangerous and risky to attempt to remove the broken or damaged key on your own, especially in the event that you've never dealt dealing with this kind of issue prior to.
4. The key is stuck in the gear selector
A lot of modern cars come with a feature which locks the steering wheel whenever you try to move after turning off the car. This feature is meant to guard against theft, but it can also stop you from getting the key out. To resolve this issue, make sure the vehicle is in Park and try shaking the gear selector. This usually unlocks the steering lock and allow you to remove the key.
It is important to be aware that using brute force can cause damage to the ignition switch or key. It is better to contact a professional locksmith instead. They will have the tools and knowledge necessary to solve the problem without causing further damage.
You can tap the end of the key with a mallet, or use an additional key as well as shaking it. This can help to dislodge any obstructions that are preventing the key from being removed. If all of these methods fail, you must contact a car locksmith serving Montgomery for assistance. They will have all the tools and expertise needed to solve the problem quickly and safely. They'll be able to recommend any other solutions that may assist you in solving the problem. So, if your key is stuck in the ignition, don't panic! Follow these steps to fix the issue.
5. The key is snagged in the battery.
The key can become stuck in the battery of the car and not release, no matter how much you jiggle the key. It is best to seek advice from an expert who has dealt with similar issues. car keys repair 'll have the tools to safely remove your key without causing any further damage.
The excessive wear and tear of the ignition cylinder can also cause your key to become stuck. The tiny tumbler pins within the cylinder that match up with your car key can be bent or swollen and make it more difficult to move the key and cause it to jam in place. Spraying a little WD-40 or a different kind of lubricant that is light on the key and wriggling it slowly will help loosen up the pins over time making it easier to remove your car key from the ignition cylinder.
If you are unable to remove your stuck car key from the ignition, avoid using excessive force. This could cause damage to the key as well as the cylinder that controls the ignition. If you're unable to free your car keys from the ignition, try shifting the shifter through other gears or using a key hammer with a tack. If you're still unable to remove your key, consult a locksmith or mobile mechanic for assistance. They will have the necessary tools and know-how to fix the issue quickly. They'll also be able to determine any other problems that may be causing the issue with your ignition.
6. The key is stuck in the cylinder.
Over the course of driving, car keys take many abuses. The act of putting it in a door, keeping it in your pocket with loose change, or throwing it over an un-porous surface will all deform the key a little bit each time. The wear eventually makes it more difficult to insert or remove the key. This can also make it easier for the internal tumbler pins to be able to bind against the key's surface and cause it to move around or become stuck.
If this is the issue then use a torch to check the cylinder for metal debris that may cause it to not turn smoothly. This can be made simpler by using a degreaser to clean the cylinder. Spray the lock cylinder with a dry graphite lubricant like WD-40. This will let the springs and pins to move freely, allowing the key to slide through and out effortlessly.
If none of this is working then jiggle the steering wheel and key for a few times to determine if it helps. If the issue persists, call a mechanic near you for advice or to examine the ignition cylinder. If this is the case it might be time to replace the ignition cylinder. It is always best to do this earlier rather than later, otherwise you could end up stranded without a way to start the car.