Old pedals extremely difficult to clip into. Still salvageable or time for a new pair
 

My father gave me a very beat up pair of Shimano PD-R540s that he got for free from a friend. I noticed that they are extremely hard to clip in to, particularly the left pedal. I've already tried lubricating the mechanism and setting the tension to the lowest and it's still a PITA to use. One time I actually almost crashed as I lost my balance trying to force my cleats to clip in. Are these still salvageable or should I go get a new pair? If it's the latter, what's a good set for cheap (~$50)? Thanks in advance!

Are the cleats worn out? That's usually the issue with SPD-SL clipping in/out issues. Pictures of pedals and cleats would help.

Agree with Rides, it's usually the worn cleats that are an issue.

The cleats are brand new. Here are pics of the pedals.
https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/bikefor...12f7e4e95d.jpg
https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/bikefor...505632cc1b.jpg

In addition to lubricating the moving parts, you can try greasing the pedal surfaces that contact the cleats.

Are you sure you got the correct cleats?

I am new to this forum but I am not new to cycling. They are SPD-SL cleats. Sometimes I can get them to clip in using A LOT of effort but most of the times I can't and it's extremely annoying (as well as dangerous).

I wasn't implying anything, it's just the first thing I thought of. I've never used SPD-SL , been on Look Delta for most of the last 30 years. A little Pledge or silicone spray makes them real easy to get in and out of. I spray it all over the pedal, makes it slippery.
The only pedals I have real trouble clipping into are the SPDs on the mountain bike after a wet ride and a shot of WD-40 frees them up.

Shimano PD-RS500 SPD-SL Pedals | REI Co-op