I still remember the day that I bought my first car. I thought it was the most perfect vehicle in the world, and I vowed to care for it diligently. Unfortunately, within a few days I had forgotten about my promise, and I started tossing fast food wrappers in the back like everyone else. After awhile I realized that neglecting my car was turning the inside into a garbage pit, and I decided to learn how to take better care of my vehicle. I took a class on auto detailing, and it really helped me to turn things around. I want to teach you what I learned, so you should read this blog.
If your key keeps getting stuck when you try to insert it or remove it from your ignition, you may need to clean your ignition. Luckily, you can easily do this job on your own at home with a few simple tools.
Tools & Equipment
Clean The Key
This may seem simple enough, but the first thing you should do is clean your keys. Soak your vehicle's keys in some warm water and soap.
After you let your keys soak for a few minutes, use a bristle brush or sponge to clean them. A brush or sponge will let you get into the little grooves of your keys and will allow you to really get all the dust and dirt off your keys.
Once you have washed your keys, dry them off with a lint-free cloth. Then, let the keys sit out and dry for a bit. You don't want to insert a wet key in your ignition system.
Dust Out The Ignition
Next, you need to dust out your ignition. However, you can't just simply wipe a rag across your ignition and clean it. You are going to need to access to a small container of compressed air. Place the wand from the container of compressed air right next to the ignition. Then, move around the wand and allow the air to blow into the ignition mechanism. You only need to do this for about ten seconds total.
Using compressed air will allow you to clear the inside of the ignition mechanism of any dirt or debris that may be causing your key to get stuck.
Lubricate The Ignition
You'll lubricate the ignition with one of your keys, so make sure the key you used has dried off completely from its previous cleaning. Then, spray a little lubricant onto both sides of your key. Next, stick the key in and out of the ignition two or three times, and turn the key left and right as well. By moving around the key, you'll be able to evenly distribute the lubrication throughout the ignition mechanism.
After you have tried all three of these methods, your key should fit easily into your ignition. If not, you have two different things you can look into further to solve your problem.
The issue may be the key you are using. Over time, keys get worn down. If you have a second key, try it and see if it works smoothly in your ignition. If the second key works fine, the issue is the key. Either get a copy of the second key made to replace the key that doesn't work, or take the key that doesn't work to a locksmith and have them file it down.
If the second key does not work either, the issue may be with your ignition mechanic. In that case, you will want to take it to a skilled mechanic (such as one from Alaska Professional Auto) and have them examine the ignition system for you.
Share29 April 2015
