Car Keys Repair - Common Problems With Car Keys Car keys can be tricky to keep in the loop. They can be bent broken, damaged, or stolen! Examine your pockets and bags for them. If they are not there, try jiggling your key. This can help to eliminate any minor damage to the lock wafers in the cylinder. 1. The key is bent The most frequent issue with keys for cars is that they become bent. This could happen if you're using your key to open your trunk or to load groceries into it. A locksmith is the best option for this problem, as they have the right tools and know-how to take out the bent keys without damaging the lock or ignition. They can also make keys for you on the spot, which is particularly useful for those with a chip-embedded, modern car key. The key that is embedded with a chip has special electronic transmitter built in. This transmits a unique message to the vehicle's computer system, which tells it whether the key is legitimate. The type of key you have can be created by locksmiths, or you can buy an alternative from your dealer. It's generally easier to replace an older key at the hardware store or locksmith in the event that you already have one. It's a great idea to note 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 locate the VIN on your dashboard or in the owner's guide. If you choose to purchase a new replacement, it is a good idea to let the dealer program it for your vehicle. This could take several days and could cost as much as $200. 2. The key is stuck The car key could be stuck for a variety reasons. Some of these issues might be specific to a particular vehicle model or manufacturer, but most are universal. Here are a few of the most frequently-cited reasons why your car key could become stuck in the ignition. Dirt and debris are the most common reason for stuck car keys. The more grit you get into the ignition, then the more friction will develop between the key surfaces. This could make it difficult to turn or remove the key. Another possibility is that your key is damaged. Over time, the regular use of your key will result in it wearing out. You may even drop it on a hard surface and crack or bend it in some way. Keys that are damaged can get stuck in the ignition as they won't fit properly. Contacting a locksmith or auto service center is the best thing to do if your key is damaged. They can repair your key or help you find a stronger key that will work better with the lock cylinder in your vehicle. It is important to remember that it is extremely dangerous and risky to try to replace the damaged or broken key on your own, especially when you're not familiar with this kind of problem before. 4. The key is stuck to the gear selector Many modern cars have features that lock the steering wheel every time you attempt to move the wheel after turning off the car. This feature is designed to stop theft, but it can also hinder you from removing the keys. To resolve the issue place the car in Park and shake the gear selector. This usually unlocks the steering lock, allowing you to take off the key. You should also be aware that using force can damage either the ignition switch or the key. It is recommended to contact an expert locksmith instead. They'll have the tools and knowledge necessary to solve the problem without causing any further damage. In car key fob repair near me to shaking the gear selector, you may also try using an extra key or tapping the end of the key using mallets. This will help in removing any obstructions that are preventing the key from being removed. If all of these options fail, you must contact a locksmith in your car serving Montgomery for assistance. They'll have the tools and expertise required to resolve the problem quickly and securely. They'll also be able to recommend any other solutions that may aid in resolving the issue. Don't panic if the ignition key is stuck! Follow these steps to fix the problem. 5. The key is snagged in the battery The key could become stuck in the battery of the car and will not release regardless of how hard you shake the key. If this is the case you should consult an expert who is familiar with these types of problems. They'll have the tools to safely remove your key without causing additional damage. The excessive wear and tear of the ignition cylinder can also cause your key to get stuck. The tiny pins that correspond to your car key inside the cylinder of ignition can be bent or collapse and making it difficult to move the keys, making it difficult to remove them. Spraying WD-40, or a different type of light lubricant, on the key may help to loosen these pins over the course of time. Do not use a lot of force when attempting to remove a stuck car key, since this could damage the key or the cylinder that controls the ignition. If you are unable to get your car key out of the ignition, use a tack-hammer or try shifting the gears. If you're still unable to remove your key seek out a mobile mechanic or locksmith for assistance. They will have the necessary tools and experience to resolve the problem quickly. They'll also be able to diagnose any other underlying problems in your ignition. 6. The key is stuck in 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 throwing it over a hard surface all distort the key slightly each time. This wear makes it harder to insert or remove the key. This could also cause internal tumblers to adhere to the key's surfaces which causes it to wiggle or become stuck. If this is the case then use a flashlight to look inside the cylinder and look for any metal debris that might be blocking it from turning smoothly. This can be made much simpler by using a degreaser to clean the cylinder. Spray the lock the cylinder with dry graphite lubricant, such as WD-40. This will allow the springs and pins to move freely so that the key can slide into and out effortlessly. If none of this is working, jiggle the steering wheel and the key a few times to see whether it helps. If the issue continues, contact an experienced mechanic at your local location for assistance or ask them to conduct an examination of the cylinder that controls the ignition. If this is the case it could be the time to replace the ignition cylinder. It is always best to do this sooner rather than later, otherwise you could be stuck without a way to start the vehicle.
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