Car Keys Repair – Common Problems With Car Keys
Car keys can be a bit difficult to keep on top of. They could be bent broken, damaged, or stolen!
Look through your bags 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 inside of the cylinder.
1. The key is bent
One of the most common car keys problems is when they become bent. This can happen when you’re using your keys to open your trunk or to load groceries into it.
The best option for this problem is to call locksmiths, as they have the tools and expertise to cut the bent key without causing damage to the lock or the ignition. They can also make you new keys for your car on the spot. This is especially helpful when your key has a chip embedded in it.
Chip-embedded keys have a special electronic transponder embedded in them that sends a unique signal to your vehicle’s system, which then tells it whether the key is legal. The type of key you have can be manufactured by a locksmith or you can purchase a replacement from your dealer. It is usually simpler to replace a key that is older at a hardware store or locksmith in the event that you already have one.
It’s a good idea to write down the vehicle identification number (VIN) of your key to be able to give it to the person who is responsible for making or repairing it. You can find the VIN on your dashboard or in the owner’s manual. If you decide to buy a replacement, it’s a good idea to let the dealer program it to your car. It could take several days and could cost upwards of $200.
2. The key is stuck
The car key could be stuck for a variety of reasons. Some of these reasons could be specific to a specific car model or brand, but the majority are universal. Here are a few of the most commonly used ways that your car keys may become stuck in the ignition
Dirt and debris are the most common causes of a stuck car key. The more grit that you pour into the ignition, the more friction will occur between the key’s surfaces. This could make it difficult to turn or remove the key.
Your key might also be damaged. As time passes your key will begin to wear down due to regular use. You might drop it on a hard surface, and bend or fracture it in any way. Damaged keys may also get stuck in the ignition if they aren’t fitted properly.
Contacting a locksmith, or an auto key repair near me service center is the best option in the event that your key is damaged. They can replace the key or help you locate a stronger, newer key that works better with the lock cylinder of your vehicle. It is very dangerous to attempt to remove a broken or damaged key on your own particularly if this is your first time.
4. The key is stuck to the gear selector.
Many modern vehicles have an option to lock the steering wheel when you try to move it after shutting off the vehicle. This feature is designed to protect against theft, but it can also make it difficult to remove the keys. To fix the problem place the car in Park and shake the gear selector. This should usually unlock your steering lock, allowing you to remove the key.
It’s also important to know that you should never use brute force to remove the car key from the ignition, since this could harm the ignition switch, or the key. It is better to contact a professional locksmith instead. They will have the tools and expertise required to resolve the issue without causing further damage.
You can tap the end of the key with a mallet or use a spare key in addition to shaking it. This can help remove any obstructions hindering you from removing the key. If all of these options fail, you must contact a locksmith in your car serving Montgomery to get help. They’ll have the tools and knowledge required to resolve the issue quickly and safely. They will also be able to recommend alternative solutions to aid in resolving the issue. If your key is stuck in the ignition, don’t panic! Follow these steps to fix the problem.
5. The key is stuck inside the battery
The key can get stuck in the battery of the emergency car key repair and will not be released regardless of how hard you try to jiggle the key. If this happens you should consult an expert who is familiar with these types of problems. They’ll have the proper tools to safely remove your key without causing damage.
Another reason your key may be stuck in the ignition cylinder could be due to wear and tear over time. The tiny pins that match your car key in the ignition cylinder could become bent or collapsing slightly and making it difficult to wiggle the keys and causing it to jam. Spraying WD-40, or another type of light lubricant, on the fob key repair near me may help loosen these pins over the course of time.
Never use excessive physical force when trying to remove the car key that is stuck, since this could damage the key or the cylinder that controls the ignition. If you’re unable to pull your car key out of the ignition, use a tack-hammer or attempt shifting the gears. If you are still unable to get your key out, contact an expert locksmith or mobile car key repair near me mechanic to get help. They’ll have the tools and expertise to resolve the issue quickly. They’ll also be able diagnose any other underlying problems with your ignition.
6. The key is encased in the cylinder
The key to your car is subject to lots of abuse while driving. The key will be distorted every time you close it in the car’s door. Keep it in your pocket with loose change, or just throw it on a hard surface. This wear makes it harder to insert or remove the key. This also makes it easier for the internal tumbler pins to stick against the key surfaces and cause it to move around or get stuck.
If this is the issue, use a torch to inspect the cylinder for any metal debris that could hinder it from turning smoothly. A quick clean with degreaser will help speed up the process. Spray the lock cylinder with WD-40 or a graphite lubricant, with dry lubricant. This will let the springs and pins to move freely and the key to slide through and out effortlessly.
If none of these things work try jiggling your steering wheel while turning the key several times. If the issue persists, call a local mechanic for advice or have them take an examination of the cylinder that controls the ignition. It could be the time to replace it if this is the case. It is always better to do this sooner than later, as you could end up stranded without a way to start the vehicle.