Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all been there - the car key won't engage in the ignition. It could occur at the worst moment, for instance, when you are loading your car with groceries or heading home from work.
Rather than panic There are many solutions to get you back on the road. Here are some common car key repair issues and solutions for them:
Broken or bent keys
The most common reason why a car owner cannot start their vehicle is a bent key. It can be repaired by simply bending the key. It may appear simple but be cautious. The key is extremely thin, and bending it even one degree can cause it to break.
You'll need a sturdy work surface and a pair of pliers to accomplish this. Take the key at one end with the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on the floor or in a vice. Then, you can put it inside the lock to see whether it will turn.
If not, it may be time to have a new key cut. You will not need to call a lock-smith and your key will still function.
It's a good idea keep a spare key in your pocket, so you don't have access to your vehicle in the event of a broken key.
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 through the cylinder, and also prevent it from getting stuck. Spray graphite powder or lubricant. Use the plastic tube that comes with the spray to ensure an even more precise application. This will also prevent moisture from damaging your key.
Spring pins and springs that are stuck
Sometimes, a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring can become stuck. A pin is a small piece of metal that measures between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long and has hollow ends. It is used to connect two parts of a machine. In the majority of cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.
If you own an older vehicle that has microchip keys it is likely that the key will need to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This process can vary depending on the manufacturer and car.
Call us if you need assistance with your car keys or locks! We can repair, replace or program almost any vehicle key.
Gear Selector
If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, it's crucial to take it to a mechanic right away. It's a safety issue and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This can also be a sign of bigger problems with the transmission system that could be costly to repair.
Fortunately, the majority times, this issue is easily fixable. The most frequent reason the gear selector could get stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped or become uncoupled from the lever itself. remote car key repair near me is a straightforward fix and a mechanic should be able to complete the task within a few minutes.
In certain instances, the bushing of the gear selector may be damaged or worn. These are rubber coverings that are placed around the articulation points within the gear system to help it move more fluidly. They work in a similar manner as cartilage in your knees therefore it is important to ensure to keep them in good shape and soft.
It's not unusual for them to wear out over time, but there are some ways to prolong their life. You should avoid the gear selection in extremely cold weather. The cables that control the gears can freeze and crack. You should also replace the bushings using premium quality ones, like those from First Line.
These bushings form an important component of your gear selector, and shouldn't be overlooked. If you find that yours is worn out, it's a good idea to go to an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help you find the perfect parts to repair your gear selector apparatus. They can also provide many other services, such as maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn the ignition key and you hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. The average battery lasts between three and five years, and as they get older, they go through an natural process that causes them to end up dying early. This is because the negative plates of your car battery will start to become coated with crystals of sulfate.
A dead battery could cause the loss of electrical power within your vehicle which can cause the radio or the electric windows to stop working. If your car is experiencing problems beginning in cold weather, this could be a good sign that it's time for an upgrade to your battery.
It's possible that your issue is not caused by a dead battery but a malfunction in the charging system. A mechanic's check to make sure that the serpentine belt, alternator and battery cables are working properly could solve this problem.
Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is the key fob that has stopped working properly. The key fob is connected to the computer in your vehicle and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. This system can be confused or cease communicating if it is wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
It is usually possible to reset a lost key fob by following the instructions provided in the owner's manual. Based on the vehicle you have it may be necessary to open and close the doors, turn the lights and other electronic devices off and on by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or even open and shut the windows. If this doesn't fix your fob, it may need to be professionally programmed by a special technician. It's worth trying these simple techniques before purchasing a new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder that when inserted into ignition, transmits a signal. This signal tells an immobilizer that the key is right to allow the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft was an issue. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system due to security and insurance reasons.
If you own a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your key could be through the dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Before you go, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This can be found on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in the owner's manual.
Bring your current key with you to an participating AutoZone store, and an associate will use machines to trace the contours of your blank key to accurately duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on the spot with a precise cutting machine. If your key is blade style, a key fob, or has a thick black or grey head on it, it'll require programming to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.