Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all had this experience the car keys won't turn in the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient times, like when you're filling up your trunk with groceries or returning home from work.
There are many solutions that will get you back on your way. Here are a few of the most common automotive key repair issues and possible solutions:
Broken or bent keys
The most frequent reason the owner of a car is unable to start their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is an easy fix. This may seem simple but be careful. The key is extremely thin and may break if you bend it even slightly.
You'll need a sturdy work surface and a pair pliers to accomplish this. Grab the key at one end with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface, or in a vise. Then, you can put it into the lock to see if it changes.
If not, you might need to get a new key made. This will prevent you from having to call a locksmith, and will ensure that your key will work.
Keep car remote key repair shop near me in your purse so you're not left without the ability to get into your vehicle in the event that your key is damaged.
If you are having trouble inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying oil to it. This will enable it move more easily through the cylinder and prevent it from getting stuck. Spray lubricant or graphite powder. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray for a more precise application. This will also stop water from destroying your key.
Spring pins and springs that are stuck
Sometimes a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring could become stuck. Pins are a tiny 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends used to connect two components of machines. In most cases, you can remove a nut by pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.
If you have a newer car that uses an electronic key with a microchip in it, there is a chance the key needs to be programmed to work with your car. This procedure can differ based on the manufacturer and car.
Contact us if you require assistance with your car locks or keys! We can repair or replace any vehicle key.
Gear Selector
It's crucial to take your vehicle to a mechanic as fast as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a safety issue and could result in serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. This could also indicate more serious issues with the transmission system itself, which could be costly to repair.
Most of the time this issue is easily fixable. The most frequent reason the gear selector could be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped, or become uncoupled from the lever itself. The mechanic can repair this within a couple of minutes.
In some instances, the bushings on the gear selector could be damaged or worn. These are rubber coverings that cover articulation points within the gear system to help it shift more fluidly. They function in a similar way to cartilage in your knees, therefore it is important to ensure that they remain healthy and supple.
It's not unusual for them to wear out over time, but there are a few things you can do to extend their life. First, you should avoid using the gear selector in very cold temperatures. This is because the cables that control the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace your bushings, like those made by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings form an essential element of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you find that yours is worn out you must visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you to find the perfect parts to repair your gear selector apparatus. They can also provide you with many other services, such as transmission service and maintenance.
Dead battery
If you switch the ignition key and hear only a click, then your battery is dead. The majority of batteries last between three and five years and as they age they go through a natural process that causes them to die prematurely. This is due to the negative plates inside the battery in your car begin to become coated with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery can also cause you to lose the electrical power in your vehicle and cause the radio or electric windows to fail. If your car has been experiencing problems beginning in cold weather, this could be an indication that it is time for a new battery.
It is possible that your problem is not an issue with your battery, but rather a malfunction in the charging system. This problem can be resolved by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all functioning correctly.
Key fobs that are not functioning properly is another common issue with automotive keys. The key fob connects to your vehicle's computer, and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system could become confused or stop communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed extreme temperatures or is wet.
Follow the instructions in the owner's guide to reset the lost keyfob. Depending on keys repair , this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronics on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this does not fix your device, it could need to professionally programmed that will require the assistance of an expert. Try these easy methods before you buy an entirely new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder chip built into them that sends a signal to a receiver inside the ignition when inserted. car key fob repair service informs the immobilizer on the car if it is the right one to allow it to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major problem. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system for security and insurance reasons.
If you own a brand new vehicle, the only option to replace your keys is at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car prior to you go. This number is usually found on the front of the dashboard or door jamb in the owner's manual.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member will use a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using an exact cutting machine on site. If the key you have is a blade type or key fob or has a thick grey or black head on it, it'll require programming to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.