The Ultimate Glossary Of Terms About Key Repair Auto Key Repair - Common Problems With Car Keys

Car keys break at most inconvenient times. The reasons for this can be various reasons and are hard to repair.

To stop this from occurring to you, adopt strategies such as lubricating keyholes or having spare keys. Also, keep on the lookout for indications that your car key requires replacement.

Ignition Cylinder Issues

It's not uncommon for the ignition cylinder wears down over time. If this happens the key might not fit properly inside the ignition or it may not turn, and if it's left unattended, the issue may get more serious and result in your engine shutting off when you drive. Fortunately, these problems can usually be solved by a locksmith in your area.

The most common indication of a problem with the ignition cylinder is when your key doesn't turn on the ignition. This is due to the tumblers in the cylinder wearing down and making it difficult to insert the key into the cylinder and make it necessary to jiggle or play around with it in order to get it to move. This issue is usually fixed by spraying silicone or graphite lubricant onto the key prior to insertion into the cylinder.

repair car key remote can tap the cylinder using the handle of the screwdriver. This is a great method to align the tumblers, without damaging your ignition key or cylinder. However, it is recommended to make use of a mallet made of rubber or the screwdriver's handle to tap the cylinder and avoid using excessive force.

You could also have the incorrect key for your car. Different car brands have their own key profiles and security features and using the wrong key could prevent it from fitting into and turning the ignition cylinder properly. It is also important to ensure that the key isn't damaged in any way, since it could hinder its ability to fit and turn the cylinder. Consult your car's manufacturer for help if you're not certain of the type of key to get.

Bent Key

A bent key could appear useless, but it's not. It can still unlock the lock, but not as quickly as it would if it were straight. A bent key is a sign of flexibility, adaptability and a willingness to work with what you have. It encourages you embrace the ability to be resilient and seek an understanding of life's twists, turns and obstacles.

You can straighten your own car key by using pliers for one end, and then bend it back to its original position. However, this is only a temporary fix and the key is likely to become unbalanced in the future. It's best to contact locksmiths to fix the key as soon as you can.

A professional locksmith is able to repair a bent key however, it is contingent on the extent of damage and how clear the cuts are on the key. In certain cases keys, the key might need to be replaced completely. In such cases it is crucial to have an extra car key in order that you can get into your vehicle in case the lock is damaged once more. It's also a good idea to ensure that the new key is cut in a way that will fit the lock and ignition cylinder. This is particularly important for Ford keys where the blade is separated from the body. These keys can be very difficult to cut precisely.

Gear Selector Issues

Your Mercedes-Benz is a performance vehicle that you expect to respond appropriately when you shift gears. If your car jerks during shifts, it could be an issue with the transmission. It is recommended to take it to the mechanic immediately. The gear selector, which is a tiny part of your transmission, can be difficult to determine but is vital for your car to perform in the way it ought to. A malfunctioning gear selector may lead to your car shifting into the wrong gear, result in costly damage to the transmission.


The positive side is that many Mercedes owners can avoid problems with their gear selectors by taking care of their cars properly and scheduling routine maintenance. These steps will help prevent dirt and debris from getting into the gear selector. This is the main reason for a bad selection of gears.

Gear selector problems can include difficulties shifting between positions, a failure to lock in place, or a loud clunking sound when shifting. These issues can be traced back to mechanical problems that require professional diagnosis.

The clutch in your transmission may be damaged or worn out. This could result in the gear selector not being able select the proper gear, and your Mercedes shifting into the wrong gears. To avoid this problem it's a good idea to regularly schedule maintenance with our team of expert mechanics. This gives us to identify small issues before they become costly problems for your Mercedes. It's also recommended for your Mercedes to use top-quality transmission oils. This will ensure that your engine and transmission aren't overheated or becoming too hot, which can cause issues with the gear selector.

Dead Battery

If your car isn't starting when you turn the ignition it's likely that the battery is dying or dead. You will need to replace a battery that is completely dead and can't be recharged. There are methods to revive and re-energize the battery back to its full capacity.

Jumping a dead car with another one in operation is the most efficient way to fix the dead battery. This method utilizes two jumper cables to provide power to your vehicle. Make sure you turn off the ignition in both vehicles and connect the red (positive) cable from the battery of your vehicle to the positive terminal of your dead battery. Then connect the black (negative) cable from the battery in your vehicle back to a spot of unpainted metal as a clean bolt on the vehicle to ground it.

Another way to fix the battery that is dead is to recharge it with charger. This is usually done with an acid lead 12 volt battery. If your battery is older than 3 years, it may have undergone the natural process called sulfation that could cause permanent damage.

Sulfation occurs when the negative plates of your battery form an sulfate crystal layer that reduces their ability to receive and transmit electricity. It's a fairly simple process that can be completed with a basic charger and some everyday items. To complete the task you'll require safety goggles and rubber gloves, along with batteries, chargers and jump starters, a voltmeter, and an apron.

Ignition Socket Issues

A key that won't turn on the ignition socket can be extremely frustrating. There are a few solutions to this issue.

First, check to make sure there aren't any obstructions inside the cylinder. Use a flashlight to see inside the cylinder and remove any obstructions. You can spray some oil that penetrates the keyhole in order to make the broken piece easier to remove. Be cautious not to spill the oil on any electrical components, however.

A tack hammer may be used to tap the ignition switch to loosen the pins. This will allow them to drop and allow you to turn and insert your key. Be careful not to hit too hard, or you could cause damage to the switch or other parts of your vehicle.

If you are still having difficulty turning the key, it might be the right time to contact a professional. The forceful effort to turn a broken key could cause further damage and even damage the cylinder of your ignition. Automotive locksmiths who are professionals know the right techniques and tools to extract broken keys without damaging your vehicle.

If your car's key doesn't start, it's likely due to a variety of common issues. Make sure you check the steering wheel, the gear selector, and battery before calling an expert. If you're not sure about any of these steps, refer to the owner's manual for specific directions or contact a professional. A professional will be able to assess the situation and provide the most appropriate advice on what to do. They'll also be able to determine any other issues you might have with your car keys or lock.