Car Keys Repair - Common Problems With Car Keys

It can be a challenge to keep track of car keys. They can be damaged, bent or even stolen.

Look through your bags and pockets for them. If you cannot find them try jiggling your key. This could help remove any minor damage to the lock wafers inside the cylinder.

1. The key is bent

The most common problem with car keys is that they can be bent. This can happen if you're using your key to open your trunk or to load groceries into it.

Generally, the best solution for this problem is to contact a locksmith, since they have the tools and knowledge to take out the bent key without damaging the lock or ignition. They can also create new keys for your car immediately. This is especially helpful when your key has a chip embedded into it.

The chip-embedded key has a special electronic transmitter built in. This sends an individual message to the car key fob repair near me's computer system, which informs it whether the key is legal. A locksmith can create these keys or you can purchase one from the dealer. If you own an older key, it's simpler to buy the new one from an establishment like a hardware store or locksmith.

Regardless of what kind of key you have it's a good idea to write down your vehicle identification number (VIN), so you can give it to the person who makes or repairs your key. You can find the VIN on your dashboard or in the owner's manual. If you decide to purchase a replacement key, it's recommended to have the dealer program it into your vehicle. This can take a couple of days and could cost as much as $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 frequent reasons why your car key might be stuck in the ignition.

One of the most frequent causes of a car key getting stuck in the ignition is dirt and build-up. The more grit you put into the ignition, there will be more friction between the key's surfaces. This can make it difficult to turn the key or remove it.

Another possibility is that your key has been damaged. In time, the constant use of your key will cause it to wear out. You may even drop it on a hard floor and break or bend it in any way. Keys that are damaged can get stuck in the ignition as they aren't fitted properly.

If your key is damaged, the best course of action is to contact a locksmith or auto service center for assistance. They can repair your key or help you find a stronger, newer key that works better with the lock cylinder of your vehicle. It's very risky trying to remove a broken or damaged key on your own particularly if this is your first time.

4. The key is stuck in the gear selector

A lot of modern cars come with an option to lock the steering wheel every time you attempt to move the wheel after shutting off the car. This feature is designed to protect against theft, but it could also prevent you removing the keys. To resolve this issue, make sure that your vehicle is in Park and then try shaking the gear selector. This usually unlocks your steering lock, which will allow you to take off the key.

It's also important to know that you shouldn't make use of force to remove keys from car ignition, as this can damage the ignition switch or the key. It's better to call an expert locksmith instead. They'll have all the tools and know-how necessary to solve the issue without causing further damage.

In addition to shaking the gear selector, you can also try using an extra key or tapping the end of the key with mallets. This can help to dislodge any obstructions that are preventing the key from being removed. If none of these methods work, you can call a car lockout service in Montgomery to get help. They'll have the tools and expertise needed to solve the problem quickly and securely. They'll be able to recommend any other solutions that may help you resolve the issue. If your key is stuck in the ignition Don't panic! Follow these easy steps to fix the issue.

5. The key is snagged in the battery

Sometimes, the key gets stuck in the car battery and doesn't be released regardless of how many times you jiggle it. It is recommended to seek out an expert who has dealt with similar problems. They'll be equipped to safely remove your key without causing any additional damage.

Another reason your key might be stuck in the ignition cylinder could be due to wear and tear over the course of time. The tiny pins that match your car key in the ignition cylinder could be bent or collapse which makes it difficult to move the keys, causing it to jam. Spraying a little WD-40 or some other type of light lubricant on the key and wriggling it slowly will help loosen these pins over time, making it easier to remove your car key from the ignition cylinder.

If you're unable to remove the car key that is stuck in the ignition, avoid using excessive force. This could cause damage to the key and the cylinder that controls the ignition. If you're not able 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 are still unable to take your key out then contact a mobile Car key repair mechanic or locksmith for assistance. They'll have the equipment and knowledge to resolve the issue quickly. They'll also be able determine any other issues that may be causing the issue with your ignition.

6. The key is stuck inside the cylinder.

Over the course of driving, car keys take a lot of abuse. The act of putting it in a door, putting it in your pocket with loose change or throwing it onto an un-porous surface will all deform the key a bit every time. The wear eventually makes it more difficult to insert or extract the key. It can also cause internal tumblers to stick to the surface of the key, causing it to wiggle or get stuck.

If this is the problem then use a flashlight to examine the cylinder's interior and look for any metal debris that could be blocking it from moving smoothly. A quick cleaning using degreaser will make the process go faster. Spray the lock's cylinder by using WD-40 or a graphite lubricant, with dry oil. This will allow the pins and springs move freely so that keys can slide in and out easily.

If none of this works try jiggling the steering wheel and key back and forth for a few times to determine whether it helps. If the issue continues, contact an experienced mechanic at your local location for assistance or have them take an inspection of the cylinder for ignition. It could be the time to replace it if this is the scenario. It is recommended to do this as soon as you can, otherwise you may find yourself stranded with no option to start your vehicle.