Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all experienced this when the car's key doesn't turn in the ignition. It could happen at the worst possible time, such as when you are loading your trunk with groceries or driving home from work.
Instead of panicking There are many solutions to get back on the road. Here are a few of the most common automotive key repair issues and their possible solutions:
Broken or bent key
The most common reason why an owner of a car cannot start their vehicle is a bent key. This can be easily repaired by simply straightening the key. It might sound easy, but it is important to do it carefully. The key is extremely thin and bending it just a little can cause it to break.
You will need a stable work surface and a pair of pliers to do this. Grab the key on one end with the pliers, and bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on an even surface or in a vice. Then, you can place it in the lock to see whether it turns.
If not, it might be time to get a new key cut. You don't need to call a locksmith and your key will still function.
It's a good idea keep a spare key in your pocket, so you don't have a way into your vehicle in the event of a lost key.
If you are having trouble inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying lubricant to it. This will enable it move more easily through the cylinder and prevent it from getting stuck. You can use graphite as a spray lubricant. If using a spray, ensure that you attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure more precise application. This will also help keep moisture from damaging your key.
Stuck pins or springs
A pin (also known as a roll pin or a spring) may get stuck. Pins are small 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends used to connect 2 parts of an equipment. In the majority of cases, you can remove pins by simply pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.
If you own an older vehicle that has a microchip key it is possible that the key will need to be programmed to work with your car. This process is different based on the manufacturer and car.
If you require assistance with your keys for your vehicle or locks, give us call! We are able to repair or replace any vehicle key.
Selector for gears
If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, it's important to get it checked by an expert mechanic immediately. This is a safety issue and could lead to serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. This issue can also be a sign of bigger problems with the transmission that could be expensive to fix.
Most times, this problem is easily fixable. The most common reason the gear selector could get stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped off or become uncoupled from the lever itself. This is a simple fix, and a mechanic should be able to fix it in a couple of minutes.
In some cases the gear selector bushing may be damaged or worn out. The rubber covers are put around the joints of the gear system in order to keep it fluid. They perform the same function as cartilage in your knees, so it's crucial that they stay healthy and supple.
It's not unusual for them to wear out in time, but there are a few ways to prolong their life. You should first avoid using the gear selection in extremely cold weather. This is because the cables controlling the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, for instance the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings form an important part of your gear selector, and should not be ignored. If you notice that yours is worn out, you should visit an auto repair shop specializing in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you to find the perfect parts to restore your gear selector device. They can also provide you with a range of other services, including maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you switch the ignition on and hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. The majority of batteries last between three and five years, and as they get older, they undergo natural processes that cause them to die early. This is because the negative plates inside your car battery will start to become coated with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery could cause the loss of the power source in your car, causing the radio or electric windows to malfunction. If you've had difficulties starting your car in cold weather, this could be a sign that you require a new battery.
It's possible that your issue is not caused by an issue with your battery, but rather an issue with the charging system. This issue can be fixed by having your mechanic verify that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables all work properly.
Another common automotive key repair is a key fob that isn't working properly. The key fob is a small unit that connects to the computer in the vehicle and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system can get confused or cease communicating with your car if it is exposed to extreme temperatures or gets wet.
Follow the instructions in your owner's guide to reset a lost keyfob. Depending on key repair near me could involve opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronics on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your fob it may require professional programming which requires the help of technicians. Try these easy techniques before buying the new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder, which when it is inserted into the ignition, transmits an indication. This signal tells the immobilizer inside the car whether the key is the right one to be used for starting. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became such an issue that many manufacturers installed this transponder security device in their vehicles to ensure safety and insurance purposes.
If you have a newer vehicle, the only option 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 is usually found on the dashboard's front, door jamb, or in your owner's manual.
Bring your current working key to a participating AutoZone store, and an associate will use machines to trace the contours of your blank key to precisely replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using an exact cutting machine on site. If your key is equipped with blade, fob or a large grey/black head it will need to be programmed to your car before you can use it to start the motor.