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 loading your car with groceries or returning to home from work.
There are many different solutions to bring you back on the way. Here are a few of the most common car key repair issues and possible solutions:
Broken or bent key
A bent key is the most frequent reason why car owners are unable to start their vehicle. This can be repaired by simply bending the key. This may sound simple but it's important to do this carefully. The key is thin and can break if you bend it even a little.
To accomplish this, you'll require an area with a solid foundation, as well as a pair of pliers. Hold the key at the other end using the pliers and bend it until it is straight. This is best done on a flat surface, or in a vise. Then, you can put it inside the lock to test whether it will turn.
If not, you could need to get a new one created. This will avoid needing to call a locksmith and will ensure your key will work.
It's a good idea keep a spare in your pocket so that you don't have a way into your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.
If you're having difficulty inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying some oil to it. This will allow it to move through the cylinder and will prevent it from getting stuck. You can use graphite as a spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray to ensure the most precise application. This will also stop water from destroying your important.
Pins that are snuck or springs
A pin (also called a roll pin or spring) can become 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 remove a nut by pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.
If you own an older car that is equipped with a microchip key it is possible that the key will need to be programmed in order to work with your car. This process is different based on the model of car and the manufacturer.
If you require assistance with your keys for your vehicle or locks give us a call! We can repair, replace, or program virtually any car key.
Gear Selector
If your car's gear selector gets stuck in park mode, it's crucial to bring it to an expert mechanic immediately. This is a safety issue and could result in serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. ignition key repair near me can also be a sign of more serious issues with the transmission system itself, which could be costly to repair.
Fortunately, the majority of the time this problem is easily fixable. Most often, the cable end that is connected to the lever could snap or come uncoupled. This is a simple fix, and the mechanic can usually complete the task in a couple of minutes.
In certain instances there are instances where the gear selector bushing could become damaged or worn out. These are rubber covers that are placed around the articulation points in the gear system, allowing it move more easily. These covers function similar to the cartilage in your joints, and therefore require to be healthy and flexible.
You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few simple things. You should first avoid using the gear selection in extremely cold weather. This is because the gear control cables tend to freeze and cracking. You should also replace the bushings with high quality ones, like those from First Line.
These bushings form an important part of your gear selector and shouldn't be overlooked. If you find that yours is worn out, it's a good idea to visit an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help you locate the ideal parts to restore your gear selector device. They can also provide a range of other services, like maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn on your key in the ignition and you hear nothing except a click, your battery is dead. Most batteries last between three and five years and as they age, they undergo an natural process that causes them to end up dying prematurely. This is because the negative plates of your car battery will start to become coated by sulfate crystals.
A dead battery may also cause your car to lose power, which could cause the radio to stop working or electric window becoming unresponsive. If your car is experiencing problems starting in cold weather, this is a good sign that it's time to get an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes your problem might not be a dead battery, but a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. This problem can be resolved by having your mechanic verify that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are all functioning properly.
Another common repair for a key in the automotive is the key fob that isn't working properly. The key fob is a tiny device that connects to your computer in your vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and the accessory systems. This system may be confused or cease communicating if it gets submerged or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
Follow the steps in your owner's guide to reset a lost keyfob. Depending on your vehicle it may be necessary to open and close the doors, switch lights and other electronic devices off and on and press a particular sequence of buttons, or shut and open the windows. If this doesn't fix your fob, it may require professional programming and will require a special technician. It's worth trying these simple methods before you buy the new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder chip embedded in them that transmits signals to a receiver inside the ignition when inserted. This signal informs the immobilizer inside the car if the key is the right one for it to start. In the 1990s, car theft became a major issue. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system to ensure safety and insurance reasons.
If you own a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your keys is to go to the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car prior to you leave. This number can be found on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in an owner's guide.
Bring your current working key with you to a participating AutoZone store, and an associate will utilize a machine to trace the contours of your blank key to precisely replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with an exact cutting machine on site. If your key is equipped with a blade, a fob, or a thick head that is grey or black, it will need to be programmed to your car before you can use it to start the motor.