Car Keys Repair - Common Problems With Car Keys
Car keys can be tricky to keep in the loop. They can get bent broken, damaged, or stolen!
Examine your bags and pockets for them. If you are unable to locate them Try jiggling your keys. This could help you remove any minor damage to the lock wafers inside of the cylinder.
1. The key is bent
One of the most common car keys problems is when it gets bent. This can happen when you're using your keys to open your trunk or to load groceries into it.
A locksmith is the best option to solve this issue, since they have the tools and know-how to take out the bent keys without causing damage to the lock or ignition. They can also create an entirely new key in a matter of minutes and is particularly helpful for those with a chip-embedded, modern car key.
The chip-embedded key has a special electronic transmitter that is built into. This sends an unique message to the vehicle's computer system, telling it whether the key is legal. This type of key can be made by locksmiths, or you can buy a replacement from your dealer. If you own an older key, it's typically simpler to buy a new one at a locksmith or hardware store.
Regardless of what kind of key you own it's a good idea to note down your vehicle identification number (VIN) in order that you can give it to the person who makes or repairs to your key. The VIN is usually located on the dashboard of your car or in its owner's manual. If you choose to purchase a new replacement, it is best to allow the dealer to program it for your car. This will take several days and can cost you upwards of $200.
2. The key is stuck
The car key can be stuck for a variety reasons. Some of these issues might be specific to a certain vehicle model or brand, but the majority are universal. Here are some of the most commonly used ways that your car keys could get stuck in the ignition:
One of the most common reasons for a key getting stuck in the ignition is dirt and build-up. The more grit you get into the ignition, then the more friction will occur between the key surfaces. This can make it difficult to turn the key or take it off.
Another possibility is that your key has been damaged. In time, the constant use of your key could result in it wearing out. You could even accidentally drop the key on an un-hard surface, breaking it or breaking it. Keys that are damaged can get stuck in the ignition because they aren't fitted properly.
Contacting key lock repair near me or an auto service center is the best option if your key is damaged. They can replace the key for you or assist you in finding the most durable, newer key that is compatible with your vehicle's lock cylinder. It's extremely risky to try to remove a broken or damaged key by yourself especially if it is your first time.
4. The key is stuck in the gear selector
Many modern vehicles have a feature that locks the steering wheel when you try to move it after turning off the vehicle. This feature is designed to prevent theft, but can also prevent you from taking the key off. To solve this issue, make sure the vehicle is in Park and try shaking the gear selector. This should usually unlock the steering lock, allowing you to take off the key.
It's also important to know that you should not use brute force to remove a car key from the ignition, as this can harm the ignition switch, or the key. Instead, you should get in touch with a professional locksmith assistance. They'll have all the tools and know-how necessary to resolve the issue without causing further damage.
In addition to shaking the gear selector, you could also try using a spare key or tapping the end of the key using a mallet. This can help remove any debris that is preventing the key from being removed. If none of these strategies work, you should contact a locksmith service for cars in Montgomery for assistance. They'll have all the tools and know-how needed to solve the issue quickly and safely. They'll be able to recommend any other solutions that may aid in resolving the issue. Don't panic if the ignition key gets stuck! Follow these easy steps to fix the issue.
5. The key is encased inside the battery.
Sometimes, the key gets stuck in the car battery and won't come out no matter how many times you shake it. If this happens you should consult a professional who has experience with these types of problems. They will have the right tools to safely remove your key without causing additional damage.
Another reason your key may be stuck in the ignition cylinder is because of excessive wear and tear that happens over the course of time. The tiny tumbler pins inside the cylinder that match up with your car keys can become bent or collapsed slightly which makes it difficult to move the key around and cause it to become stuck in its place. Spraying WD-40, or another type of light lubricant on the key can aid in loosening the pins over a period of time.
If you're unable to remove the car key stuck in the ignition, avoid using excessive force. This could damage the key as well as the cylinder of ignition. If you're unable to free your car keys from the ignition, try moving the shifter through other gears or using the key hammer with a tack. If you're still not able to take your key out, contact an expert locksmith or mobile mechanic for help. They'll have the tools and expertise to solve the issue swiftly. They'll also be able to identify any other problems that may be causing the issue with your ignition.
6. The key is lodged inside the cylinder.
The key to your car is subject to many abuses while driving. The key can be damaged every time you close it in the car's door, so keep it in your pocket along with loose change, or just throw it on a hard surface. This wear makes it more difficult to insert or remove the key. This also makes it easier for the internal tumbler pins to be able to bind against the key surfaces and cause it to move around or become stuck.
If this is your problem you can use a torch inspect the cylinder for any metal debris that could be preventing it from turning smoothly. A quick cleaning using a degreaser can help speed up the process. Spray the lock cylinder, with WD-40 or a graphite lubricant, with dry lubricant. This will help the springs and pins to move freely so that the key can slide into and out easily.
If none of these solutions work try jiggling the steering wheel and the key back and forth for a few times to determine whether it helps. If the problem persists you should contact a mechanic close to you to get advice or examine the cylinder that controls the ignition. If this is the situation, it may be time to replace the ignition cylinder. You should do this as soon as you can or else you could find yourself stranded with no way to start your car.