20 Truths About Key Repair Busted

Auto Key Repair - Common Problems With Car Keys
The car keys often break at the worst possible time. These problems can occur for various reasons and are very difficult to repair.
You can avoid this by lubricating your keyholes and keeping spare keys. Be on the lookout for signs that your keys need to get replaced.
Ignition Cylinder Problems
The ignition cylinder is a complex mechanism that has many tiny elements, and it's uncommon for these components to wear out over time. If this happens, the key might not fit properly in the ignition, or it might not turn. If left unattended the issue could become grave and result in the engine not working when you drive. Locksmiths can solve these issues.
The most frequent sign of an ignition cylinder problem is that your key won't turn in the ignition. This is due to the tumblers within the cylinder deteriorating and making it hard to fit the ignition key in. You may have to play around with the key until it turns. This issue can be fixed by spraying graphite or silicone lubricant over the key before inserting it into cylinder.
You can also tap the cylinder with the handle of the screwdriver. This is a great technique to re-align the tumblers without causing damage to your ignition key or cylinder. However, it is recommended to make use of a mallet made of rubber or the handle of a screwdriver to tap the cylinder, and never use excessive force.
Another possibility is that you're using a wrong type of key for your vehicle. 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. Also, make sure that the key isn't damaged in any way, since it could hinder its ability to fit and turn the cylinder. If you're unsure of the type of key you require you should consult the manufacturer of your car or dealer for help.
Bent Key
A bent key could appear useless, but it's not. It's still able to open the lock, just not as quickly as it would if it were straight. A bent key indicates flexibility, adaptability, and an ability to work with what you have. It is a way to show your the ability to be resilient and gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of life's twists and turns.
You can try to straighten your car key yourself by grabbing one end of the key with a pair of pliers and using your hands to bend it back to its original position. But, this is only a temporary fix and the key is likely to become unbalanced in the future. Therefore, it's best to visit a locksmith immediately to have the key properly fixed.
A skilled locksmith can usually fix a bent key, however, it is contingent on the extent of damage and how well-defined the cuts are on the key. In some cases, the key may need to be replaced completely. In these cases you'll need to make sure that you have a spare key so that you can return to your vehicle in the event that the lock gets damaged in the future. 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 especially important for Ford keys which have the blade separated from the body. These keys are often very difficult to cut precisely.
Issues with the Gear Selector
Your Mercedes-Benz is a top-performing vehicle that you can expect to respond in a timely manner when you shift gears. If your car shakes when you make shifts it could be due to an issue with your transmission. It is best to be able to identify the issue right away. The gear selector, a minor component of your transmission, can be difficult to determine but is vital for your car to function as it is supposed to. A malfunctioning selector can cause your car to shift into a wrong gear, causing expensive transmission damage.
The positive side is that many Mercedes owners can prevent problems with the gear selector by taking care of their cars correctly and scheduling regular maintenance. These steps will help prevent dirt and debris from getting into the gear selector. This is the primary reason for a bad gear selection.
Gear selector issues can include problems moving through different positions, the inability to lock in place or even the sound of a clunking when you shift. These issues can be traced back to mechanical issues that require professional diagnosis.
The clutch in your transmission may be damaged or worn out. This could cause the gear selector to be unable to select the proper gear and your Mercedes will start to shift into the incorrect gears. It's best to make regular appointments for maintenance with our team of mechanics. This gives us the opportunity to detect minor issues before they turn into expensive problems for your Mercedes. It's also an excellent idea for your Mercedes to use high-quality transmission oils. This will ensure that your engine and transmission aren't becoming too hot, which can also cause problems with the gear selector.
Dead Battery
If your car isn't starting when you turn the ignition it's likely the battery is dead or dying. You will need to replace a battery that is completely dead and can't be recharged. There are methods to revive and bring back the battery back to its maximum capacity.
Jumping remote key repairs with another battery in operation is the most efficient way to fix a dead battery. This method involves a pair of jumper cables to provide power to your vehicle. 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 your working vehicle's battery back to an unpainted metal area as a clean bolt on the vehicle to ground it.
Recharging a dead battery with a charger is another way to fix it. This is typically done with a 12 volt lead acid battery. If your battery is more than three years old it may have experienced the natural process of sulfation which could cause it to become permanently damaged.
Sulfation happens when the negative plates inside your battery develop crystals of sulfate that limit its ability to accept and deliver electricity. This is a relatively easy procedure that can be accomplished using a basic charger as well as some everyday items. To finish the job you'll require safety goggles and rubber gloves, along with an electric battery charger, jump starters, a voltage meter and an apron.
Ignition Socket Problems
A key that won't turn in the ignition socket can be very frustrating. There are a few solutions to solve this issue.
First, make sure there aren't any obstructions inside the cylinder. Utilize a flashlight to view inside the cylinder and remove any obstructions. You can also spray penetrating oil into the keyhole to aid in helping the broken part slide out more easily. Be careful not to spill the oil on any electrical components, however.
A tackhammer can be used to tap the ignition switch and loosen the pins. This will allow them to drop into the switch, allowing you to insert and turn your key. You could damage your switch as well as other parts if you hit too hard.
If you're having difficulty turning the key, it may be time to contact an expert. If you forcefully try to turn a damaged key can cause further damage and even damage the cylinder of your ignition. Automotive locksmiths who are professionals have the best tools and techniques to extract broken keys without damaging your vehicle.
If your car's key does not turn on when you turn the ignition, it is likely due to one of the common issues. Be sure to examine the steering wheel, gear selector and battery prior to calling an expert. If you aren't sure about any of these steps consult the owner's manual for specific guidelines or contact an expert. A professional can assess your situation and provide you with the most appropriate advice. They'll also be able to diagnose any other issues you might encounter with your car key or lock.