Car Keys Repair - Common Problems With Car Keys
It can be a challenge to keep the keys to your car. They can get bent broken, damaged, or stolen!
Look through your bags and pockets for them. If they are not there try jiggling your key. This might help free any slight destruction to the lock wafers inside of the cylinder.
1. The key is bent
One of the most common car key problems is when it becomes bent. This can happen when you use your key to open your trunk or to load groceries into it.
A locksmith is the ideal choice to solve this issue, since they have the tools and know-how to take out the bent keys without damaging the lock or ignition. They can also create a new key for you 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 embedded in. This sends a unique message to the car's computer system, telling it if the key is legal. The type of key you have can be created by a locksmith, or you can buy an alternative from your dealer. If you have an older key, it's usually easier to purchase an alternative one from an establishment like a hardware store or locksmith.
Regardless of what kind of key you have It's recommended to write down your vehicle identification number (VIN), so you can provide it to the person who creates or repairs your key. The VIN is typically located on the dashboard of your car or in its owner's manual. If you decide to buy a replacement, it is best to let the dealer program it for your vehicle. It could take several days and could cost you upwards of $200.
2. The key is stuck
The car key can be stuck due to a variety of reasons. Some of these causes may be specific to a specific car model or type however many are universal. Here are some of the most frequently-cited reasons why your car keys could be stuck in the ignition.
One of the most frequent reasons for a key becoming stuck in the ignition is dirt and build-up. The more grit you put into the ignition, the more friction will occur between the key's surfaces. This can make it difficult to turn the key or remove it.
Your key might also be damaged. In time, the constant use of your key could result in it wearing out. You might even accidentally drop it on a hard floor and break or bend it in any way. Keys that are damaged may get stuck in the ignition if they don't fit properly.
Contacting a locksmith or an auto service center is the best option if your key is damaged. They can either replace the keys for you or assist you in finding a newer, more durable key that works with your vehicle's lock cylinder. It's important to know that it's very dangerous and risky to attempt to replace a damaged or broken key yourself, especially if you don't have experience with this kind of problem prior to.
4. The key is stuck to the gear selector
A lot of modern cars come with a feature which locks the steering wheel every time you attempt to move the wheel after turning off the car. This feature is designed to protect against theft, but it can also make it difficult to remove the keys. To resolve this issue, make sure that your vehicle is in Park and then try shaking the gear selector. This usually unlocks 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 the car key from the ignition, since this could harm the ignition switch, or the key. Instead, seek out a professional locksmith for help. They will have the tools and expertise required to resolve the issue without causing any further damage.
In addition to shaking the gear selector, you can also try using a spare key or tap the end of the key with mallets. This will help get rid of any obstructions blocking your ability to remove the key. If none of these strategies are working, you can contact a car lockout service in Montgomery to get help. They'll have all the tools and know-how needed to solve the problem quickly and securely. They will also be able to suggest alternative solutions to aid in resolving the issue. So, if your key is stuck in the ignition, don't be afraid! Follow these steps to resolve the issue.
5. The key is encased inside the battery.
The key may become stuck in the battery of the car and will not be released, no matter how much you shake the key. It's best to consult an expert who has dealt with similar issues. They'll have the proper tools to safely remove your key without causing further damage.
car key fob repair service why your key could be stuck in the ignition cylinder is due to excessive wear and tear over time. The tiny pins that match your car key in the ignition cylinder could be bent or collapse and making it difficult to move the keys, causing it to jam. Spraying WD-40 or some other type of lubricant with a light touch on the key and wriggling it slowly can help loosen the pins over time making it easier to remove your car key from the ignition cylinder.
If you're unable to remove the car key stuck in the ignition, avoid using excessive force. This could damage the key and the cylinder of ignition. Instead, if you're unable to remove your car key from the ignition, try moving the shifter through different gears or using the Tack Hammer. If you're still not able to get your key out call a mobile mechanic or locksmith for help. They'll have the tools and know-how to solve the issue swiftly. They'll also be able identify any other problems in your ignition.
6. The key is lodged inside the cylinder
The key to your car is subject to a lot of abuse during driving. Locking it in a door, keeping it in your pocket with loose change, or tossing it on an un-porous surface will all deform the key a little bit every time. The wear eventually makes it more difficult to insert or extract the key. This could also cause the internal tumblers to stick to the key surfaces which causes it to wiggle or become stuck.
If this is your problem, use a torch to check the cylinder for metal debris that could cause it to not turn smoothly. A quick cleaning using degreaser will make the process go faster. Spray the lock's cylinder using WD-40 or graphite lubricant, using a dry oil. This will let the springs and pins to move freely and the key to slide in and out with ease.
If none of this works, jiggle the steering wheel and the key a few times to see whether it helps. If the problem persists, call a mechanic near you to get advice or examine the cylinder that controls the ignition. If this is the situation it could be the time to replace the ignition cylinder. It is always better to do this sooner rather than later, otherwise you might find yourself stranded without any way to start your vehicle.