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Car Key Repair Tips Car key repair is easy with the right tips. You can avoid a lot of problems by making sure your locks and keys well-lubricated. Use a needle-nose pliers to remove the damaged piece of key from the ignition cylinder before you call a locksmith or a dealer. Avoid further damage by being gentle and patient. 1. Knock the key ignition You're at the gas station, buying groceries or just headed home after a long day when you insert your car keys in the ignition, but it won't turn. It can be a frustrating experience, especially if your appointment is already overdue. There are key repairs near me that could cause problems with your car keys. Fortunately, most of these issues are simple to repair. First, ensure that the key is in fact stuck. It's common for people to pull the wrong key off of the table or the keychain. If the key is securely inserted into the cylinder and not dirty or loose, then it should function. Make sure to turn the key a few times in the ignition, making sure not to cause damage by applying excessive force or pressure. If it doesn't work, try using some graphite lubricant. Spray the lubricant in the cylinder, insert the key, then remove it again to spread the lubricant over the cylinder. If you're still having trouble getting your vehicle to start, it may be time to replace your key. If the teeth on your key are worn down it will be difficult to get them to engage the pins in the cylinder. The purchase of a new key isn't costly, and it is worth the cost in the event that you're constantly finding your car key stuck in the ignition. Another issue that can hinder your car's start is if the gear selector is on “P” (park). In this case 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 about fixing the issue yourself, have an experienced professional 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, apply pressure using a screwdriver and see if it will budge. If it does not move, you will have to replace it. Another reason why your key may not turn is because it's not the right key for your car. This is a common mistake that many people make and it's a simple fix. Make sure whether the key hasn't been damaged or dropped. If you're confident that the key is the right one, then lubricate it. This will eliminate any dirt particles that could hinder it from turning. A silicone-based lubricant works best, as it will prevent dirt from building up and blocking the keyhole in the future. If this doesn't work, the key cylinder might be blocked or worn out. If this is the case, you'll need to have a new car key or replace the lock cylinder. You can also spray a little oil in the keyhole and gently jiggle it. It's worth trying to loosen any dirt that could be preventing the key from getting into the lock cylinder. Finally, if you haven't changed the batteries in your key fob lately, it might be the time to do so. It's easy to change the battery in modern fobs. It's as simple as pry the halves apart with a screwdriver and pop out the old one. Then, put in the new one in the same way and test it. If you're in need of a car key or replacement, visit your local Ace hardware store. You will also find auto accessories and maintenance equipment in addition to traditional key fobs and keys. 3. Check the Gear Selector When it concerns your car, having a spare key is a good idea. After all, you never know when you'll lose your primary key or lock it inside the vehicle. Having a spare will allow you to get back on the road quicker and also save you money in the end. In the past, you could have an extra key cut at the local hardware store, or even the auto parts department of your dealership. It's much more convenient and cost-effective to have a spare cut by an automotive locksmith today. One of the most important things you can do to keep your Mercedes Benz in optimal condition is to take routine maintenance seriously. This means taking your car to the shop for regular maintenance and taking care of your driving habits. This includes ensuring that you always come to a complete stop before changing gears and employing the correct technique when using the drive-away feature. Another essential aspect of taking care of your Mercedes Benz is to be aware of any issues that may arise with the gear selector bushing. This small component is crucial for the function of your automatic transmission and plays a crucial role in ensuring you're getting the most efficient performance from your vehicle. If you notice that it's getting harder to change gears, or your vehicle isn't able to translate your actions into the transmission, the selector bushing may need to be replaced. It's also an excellent idea to have spare keys cut for your vehicle if the originals begin to wear out or break down. This may be a hassle but it's much better than having your car taken away or locked in the trunk. 4. Check the Battery The key fob's battery has a short lifespan, and it eventually needs 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 no longer respond promptly when pressed, it could be time to replace it. A new battery can restore the functionality of the key's buttons. It is essential to make sure that the new battery is placed correctly. To do so take care to open the key fob using a flat screwdriver or a coin and examine the old battery for the proper orientation. The battery should be shaped like a coin and have an X and minus symbol. The new battery should be placed in the same direction as the original one to avoid any damage. One common issue that can hinder the key from turning the ignition is a misalignment of the tumblers in the key cylinder. The key can be re-aligned by gently tapping it with a rubber mallet, or the handle of the screwdriver. The key cylinder may get stuck or clogged over time. A small amount of lubricant that penetrates can help clear out any obstructions, and help improve the movement of the key inside the lock cylinder. If you are trying to solve this issue, it is recommended that you use graphite or silicone spray. If the problem persists then it could be a serious issue with the ignition switch. A certified auto technician should look at the switch in a professional manner in the event that this is the case. It's risky to fix this part yourself without the proper education. This could lead to further damage and costly repairs. This is why it's crucial to seek the assistance of an experienced and licensed auto locksmith. 5. Check the Ignition Cylinder The ignition cylinder, if working correctly, ensures the key fits snugly in the ignition socket, allowing the vehicle to be started. However, various problems can impede proper ignition cylinder function. 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 has failed and prevents theft, or electrical issues such as a power outage or a dead battery. This problem should be addressed immediately to avoid further problems such as being stranded and incurring expensive repairs. It also helps ensure that the car is reliable and safe. If your car's key doesn't turn, it usually means that there is an issue with the ignition switch or key. Luckily, there are several options to address the problem. This includes jiggling the steering wheel, verifying the gear selector's position as well as inspecting and replacing the key, evaluating the battery's voltage, and cleaning the cylinder of the ignition to remove obstructions. These simple solutions can help you solve many common problems. In rare cases it is possible to re-align the cylinder of ignition to restore normal operation. Professional mechanics and locksmiths are equipped with the right tools and expertise to perform this delicate task. This involves meticulously altering the internal components of the cylinder to ensure they are in the right alignment, allowing the key to slide into and smoothly inside the ignition. Doing this can dramatically extend the lifespan of your ignition system, while also maintaining optimal performance and reliability. If you have a spare key, consider using it to determine if the problem is related to the key that was originally used or the ignition cylinder.