Fixing Jammed Keys On Your Mechanical Keyboard

Introduction

Mechanical keyboards are known for their durability and satisfying typing experience. However, like any piece of hardware, they can develop issues over time. One of the most common problems is keys becoming stuck or failing to register keystrokes. Thankfully, this issue can often be resolved with some simple troubleshooting and maintenance. In this article, I will provide an in-depth guide to diagnosing and fixing jammed keys on a mechanical keyboard.

Common Causes of Sticky Keys

There are a few common culprits when keys become stuck or stop responding on a mechanical keyboard:

Dust and Debris Buildup

Over time, dust, dirt, hair, and other particles can accumulate under the keycaps and on the switches of a mechanical keyboard. This debris can interfere with the smooth operation of the switches, causing them to stick. Cleaning the keyboard regularly can help prevent this issue.

Spilled Liquids

Coffee, soda, juice – spills can ruin the inner workings of a keyboard. Sticky liquids can leave residue that prevents smooth switch travel. Dried liquid buildup can also cause keys to stick in the down position. Avoid eating or drinking around your keyboard to prevent spills.

Worn Out Switches

With heavy daily use over several years, the components in mechanical keyboard switches can wear out. This can lead to keys that feel “mushy” or fail to spring back up after pressing. Replacing the affected switches is the solution for worn components.

Faulty Stabilizers

Mechanical keyboards use stabilizers under larger keys like space, enter, shift, etc. These stabilizers can get dirty, bent, or develop faults over time. Sticky stabilizers will make the larger keys feel sluggish and sticky.

Diagnosing Which Keys Are Sticking

Before trying to fix sticky keys, we need to identify exactly which ones are affected. Here are some methods to test key function:

• Press each key individually and check if the key is sluggish when pressing or releasing.
• Tap out words to check if certain letters are missing.
• Hold down commonly used keys like W, A, S, D for gaming. Check if any stick when trying to release.
• Use keyboard testing software that highlights pressed keys. Look for keys that stay highlighted when they shouldn’t.
• Use the on-screen keyboard in Windows and check if specific keys don’t register.

Thorough testing will help you pinpoint any problematic keys.

Cleaning Your Mechanical Keyboard

Cleaning is often the first step to try when fixing sticky keys:

Supplies Needed

• Q-tips
• Cotton swabs
• Isopropyl alcohol
• Compressed air
• Keycap puller

Cleaning Steps

1. Unplug the keyboard.
2. Use a keycap puller to remove keycaps from affected rows.
3. Use compressed air to blow out any loose debris from the switch housings.
4. Use a q-tip or cotton swab damp with isopropyl alcohol to wipe any gunk or residue from the exposed switches.
5. Let switches fully dry before reattaching keycaps.
6. Replace keycaps and test keys. Repeat cleaning if keys are still sticky.

Thorough cleaning can remove debris and gunk buildup that causes sticky key switches.

Stabilizer Repair and Lubrication

Sticky stabilizers under larger keys can also cause sluggish, repetitive keystrokes. To fix, we need to:

1. Detach the problematic stabilizers by removing keycaps and switches.
2. Carefully disassemble stabilizers.
3. Check for any damage or warping. Replace bent stabilizer parts.
4. Apply a small amount of lube like Krytox GPL 205 Grade 0 on the stabilizer plastic and points of contact.
5. Reassemble and reinstall stabilized keycaps.

Proper stabilizer cleaning, repair, and lubrication helps keys rebound precisely after each keypress.

Testing Switches with a Multimeter

For chronic sticky key issues, we may need to dig deeper. Measuring switch resistance with a multimeter can check if switches are faulty:

1. Remove the problem keycap and switch to expose switch contacts.
2. Set multimeter to Diode Test mode.
3. Touch multimeter probes to switch contacts to measure resistance.
4. Press down on switch stem while testing and check for resistance readings.
5. Compare readings to a known good switch. Vastly different readings indicate a faulty switch.

Knowing if the underlying switch mechanisms are damaged helps determine the best repair approach.

Replacing Problematic Switches

If cleaning does not restore sticky keys, the underlying mechanical switch itself may need replacement. Here is the general process:

1. Identify the exact make and model of switches in your keyboard (e.g. Cherry MX Browns)
2. Purchase a replacement switch of the same type.
3. Desolder the damaged switch from the keyboard PCB.
4. Solder in the replacement switch.
5. Test the repaired key to confirm normal function.

Replacing a damaged switch restores keys to like-new responsiveness. Just take care not to damage the PCB or other switches when desoldering.

When to Call In a Professional

While many sticky key issues can be DIY repaired, consider seeking professional repair help for:

• Keyboards still under warranty – Let the manufacturer do covered repairs.
• Liquid damage – Prevent short circuits by having an expert clean and dry affected components.
• Replacing many switches – Removing dozens of soldered switches risks lifting PCB traces.
• No electronics repair experience – Avoid costly mistakes on complex soldering jobs.

Seeking professional repair services is wise if the required repairs are beyond your technical comfort zone.

Preventing Future Key Problems

After reviving sticky keys, implementing some ongoing keyboard care can help avoid future issues:

• Use compressed air to routinely clean around and under keys.
• Carefully remove keycaps and clean the stems and switch housing every few months.
• Limit eating and drinking around the keyboard.
• Store keyboard covered when not in use to reduce dust buildup.
• Replace worn out switches and stabilizers at first signs of trouble.

Regular gentle cleaning and early replacement of worn parts reduces the risk of sticky and unresponsive keys.

Conclusion

Sticky, jammed, or non-functioning keys can seriously hamper typing speed and accuracy. But armed with the right cleaning tools and knowledge, many sticky key issues can be resolved with some DIY troubleshooting and maintenance. Just be sure to take extra care when doing more advanced switch and stabilizer repairs. And consider seeking professional assistance if the required repairs are beyond your experience level. By following these tips, you can keep your mechanical keyboard keys clicking and clacking away.