Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all experienced this the car keys won't turn in the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're filling up your trunk with groceries, or on your way home from work.
Instead of panicking, there are several different solutions to get back on the road. Here are a few of the most common automotive key repair problems and possible solutions:
Broken or bent keys
The most frequent reason the owner of a car is unable to begin their vehicle is a bent key. This can be fixed by simply straightening the key. It may sound simple, but it is important to do this carefully. The key is thin and may break if bent even slightly.
To do this, you will need an area that is stable, as well as pliers. Take one end of the key using the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on a flat surface or in a vice. Then, you can put it inside the lock to see if it turns.
If not, you might need to have a new one made. This will avoid having to call a locksmith, and will ensure that your key will work.
Keep a spare key in your purse so you're not left without a way to enter your vehicle if yours breaks.
If you are experiencing issues with a bent or broken key, try putting some oil on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will enable it move more easily through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray to ensure a more precise application. This will also help stop moisture from ruining your key.
Pins that are snuck or springs
A pin (also called a roll pin or a spring) can get stuck. Pins are a tiny 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends that are used to connect two components of an equipment. In most cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it off using your fingers or using a wrench.
If you have an older car that uses a microchip key it is possible that the key will need to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This process can be simple or difficult depending on the manufacturer and car.
If you require assistance with your automotive keys or locks give us a call! We can repair, replace or program almost every key for your vehicle.
Gear selector
It is essential to take your vehicle to a mechanic as fast as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a safety concern and could lead to serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. This could also be a sign that the transmission system is experiencing bigger problems, which are costly to repair.
Most of the time this issue is easily fixable. The most frequent reason the gear selector may get stuck is that one of the cable ends has snapped, or disconnected from the lever itself. This is a simple fix, and the mechanic can usually complete the task within a few minutes.
In certain instances, however, the gear selector bushing could be damaged or worn out. These are rubber coverings that go around joints within the gear system to help it move more easily. They function in a similar way to cartilage in your knees so it's crucial to keep them healthy and supple.
It's not unusual for them to wear out in time, but there are a few ways to extend their lifespan. The first is to avoid using the gear selector during extremely cold weather. This is because the cables controlling the gear are prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace your bushings, for instance those made by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are a critical element of your selection of gears and shouldn't be overlooked. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to go to an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the correct parts to repair your gear selection device. They also provide a variety of other services like maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn your key into the ignition and you hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through an natural process that causes them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be coated with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery could cause your vehicle to lose electrical power, which can result in the radio or electric window malfunctioning. If your car is having problems getting started in cold weather, this is a good sign that it's time for a new battery.
It's possible that the issue is not caused by a dead battery but an issue with the charging system. Your mechanic should ensure that the serpentine belt, alternator, and battery cables are all working properly could solve this issue.
Another common repair for a key in the automotive is the key fob that has stopped working properly. The key fob is a small device that connects to the vehicle's computer and relays commands and signals between the engine and the accessory systems. The system may become confused or stop communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed to harsh temperatures or gets wet.
It is possible to reset the lost key fob by following the directions in the owner's manual. Depending on the model of your car, you may need to open and close the doors, switch lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or even shut and open the windows. If this doesn't fix your device, it could require professional programming which will require the services of technicians. It's worth trying these simple techniques before purchasing the new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with an embedded transponder chip in them. It transmits a signal to a receiver within the ignition when it is inserted. The signal informs an immobilizer whether the key is in the right place to allow the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft became a major problem. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system due to safety and insurance reasons.
If you own a brand new vehicle, the only way to replace your keys is to go to the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car before you leave. It is located on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in the owner's manual.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone store and a representative will employ an instrument to trace the contours of the key blank to accurately replicate the original key. key repair near me will be cut on site by a cutting machine that is precise. If your key is a blade style or key fob or has a large black or grey head, it will have to be programmed to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.