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 on the ignition. It can occur at the most inconvenient moment, for instance, when you are loading your trunk with groceries or driving home from work.
There are many solutions that will get you back on your way. Here are some of the most common automotive key problems and their solutions:
Broken or bent key
The most common reason the owner of a car is unable to start their vehicle is a bent key. This can be repaired by simply bending the key. It might sound easy, but it is important to do this carefully. The key is thin and could break if bent even a little.
To accomplish this, you will need an area with a solid foundation, as well as an plier. Take the key at the other end using the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on the floor or in a vice. Then, you can place it inside the lock to test whether it turns.
If not, you could require a new key made. This will prevent you from having to call a locksmith and will ensure your key will work.
It's a good idea keep a spare key in your pocket, so that you don't find yourself without an entry point into your vehicle in the event of a lost key.
If you are experiencing issues with a bent or broken key, try putting some lubrication on it before inserting it into the lock. This will allow it to move through the cylinder and prevent it from becoming stuck. Spray graphite or lubricant. If using a spray, be sure to attach the plastic tubing included with it for an easier application. This will also help to keep moisture from damaging your key.
Pins that are snuck or springs
Sometimes, a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring may get stuck. A pin is a small piece of metal that is between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long, with hollow ends. It is used to connect two parts of a machine. In most cases you can take a nut off by pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.
If you own an older car that uses microchip keys it is likely that the key will need to be programmed in order to work with your car. This procedure can be easy or difficult depending on the car's manufacturer and model.
Contact us if you require assistance with your vehicle locks or keys! We can repair or replace every key for your vehicle.
Gear selector
It's crucial to take your car to a mechanic as fast as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a safety issue and you could cause serious vehicle damage if continue driving. This could be a sign that your transmission is experiencing more serious issues, which can be costly to fix.
Most times the issue is fixable. Most of the time, the cable end that is connected to the lever can snap or become disconnected. This is a simple fix and the mechanic can usually make it within a few minutes.
In some instances, the bushings on the gear selector may be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that go around articulation points within the gear system, allowing it shift more smoothly. They function in a similar way as cartilage in your knees, therefore it is important to ensure that they remain healthy and flexible.
You can extend their life by doing a few simple things. It is best to avoid the gear selection in extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables that control the gear are prone to freezing and cracking. It is recommended to replace the bushings using premium quality ones, such as those from First Line.
These bushings are an essential element of your gear selector, and should not be ignored. If you notice that yours is worn out it is best to visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. They can assist you to locate the ideal parts to restore the gear selector mechanism. They can also provide many other services, like maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn your key into the ignition but you don't hear anything but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through a natural process which causes them to die early. This is due to the negative plates of the battery of your car will begin to become coated with crystals of sulfate.
A dead battery can cause your vehicle to lose power, which can cause the radio to stop working or electric window becoming unresponsive. If you have been having difficulty starting your car during cold weather, this could be a sign that you need an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes, the issue may not be due to a dead battery, but rather an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. Your mechanic should make sure that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all working properly could solve this issue.
Another common automotive key repair is an ignition key that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob is connected to the computer in your car and relays signals as well as commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system can get confused or stop communicating with your car when it is exposed to extreme temperatures or is wet.
You can usually reset the lost key fob following the instructions provided in your owner's manual. Depending on the vehicle it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronics on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix your device, it could need to professionally programmed which will require the services of technicians. It's worthwhile to try these easy steps before you decide to pay for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder which when it is inserted into the ignition, sends out the signal. The signal informs an immobilizer whether the key is in the right place to allow the car to start. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became such an issue that many manufacturers put this transponder security system in their vehicles for safety and insurance reasons.
If you have a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key could be through a dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car before you go. This can be found on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in the owner's manual.
Bring your current working key along to an AutoZone store and an associate will use a machine to trace the contours of your blank key to precisely replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on-site with a precise cutting machine. If your key remote key repair near me is a blade type, a key fob, or has a large grey or black head, it will require programming to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.