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 in the ignition. It can happen at the worst possible time, such as when you're filling your car with groceries or returning home from work.
There are many different solutions that will get you back on your way. Here are some of the most common automotive key problems and solutions:
Broken or bent key
A bent key is the most frequent reason a car owner can't start their vehicle. This can be repaired by simply straightening the key. It may sound simple but it's important to do this carefully. The key is very thin and may break if bent even slightly.
You'll need a sturdy work surface and a pair of pliers to accomplish this. Grab one end of the key using the pliers and bend it back until it is straight. It is best to do this on a flat surface or in a vice. Then, you can put it inside the lock to determine whether it will turn.
If not, it might be time to have a new key cut. This will prevent you from having to call a locksmith and can ensure that your key works.
It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your pocket so that you don't have access to your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.
If you are having trouble inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying some grease to it. This will allow it to move easier through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. Spray graphite or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray to ensure the most precise application. This will also help to keep moisture from damaging your key.
Pins that are snuck or springs
A pin (also called a roll pin or a spring) may become stuck. Pins are a tiny piece of metal that measures between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long, with hollow ends. It is used to connect two components of a machine. In most cases you can take a nut off by pulling it off using your fingers or a wrench.
If you have an older car that uses a microchip key it is likely that the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your car. This process can be simple or difficult depending on the car's model and manufacturer.
If you require assistance with your keys for your vehicle or locks, give us a call! We are able to repair, replace or program almost every 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 lead to serious vehicle damage if continue driving. This problem could also indicate more serious issues in the transmission system itself, which can be expensive to fix.
Luckily, most times, this issue can be easily fixed. The cable end that is connected to the lever can snap or become disconnected. The mechanic can repair this issue in a matter of minutes.
In some cases there are instances where the gear selector bushing may be damaged or worn out. The rubber covers are put around the points of articulation of the gear system in order to keep it fluid. These covers work similarly to cartilage joints, and therefore require to be healthy and flexible.
It's not unusual for them to wear out over time, however there are a few ways to extend their life. It is best to avoid the gear selection in extremely cold temperatures. The gear control cables could freeze and crack. You should also replace your bushings, for instance the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are an essential component of your gear selector and should not be overlooked. If you find that yours is damaged it is best to visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. These experts can help you locate the ideal parts to repair the gear selector mechanism. They can also offer many other services like transmission maintenance and service.
Dead battery
If you turn on your key in the ignition and you hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo natural processes that cause them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be covered with sulfate crystals.
car key repair service can cause your car to lose electrical power, which can cause the radio to stop working or electric window malfunctioning. If your car has been having problems beginning in cold weather, it is an indication that it's time for a new battery.
It is possible that your issue is not due to an unresponsive battery but a malfunction in the charging system. car key repair service to make sure that the serpentine belt, alternator and battery cables are working correctly can resolve this issue.
Another common automotive key repair is an ignition key that isn't working properly. The key fob connects to your vehicle's computer, and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. The system may become confused or cease communicating with your car if it is exposed to extreme temperatures or gets wet.
It is usually possible to reset the lost key fob by following the instructions provided in your owner's manual. Depending on the vehicle it will require opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronics on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix your fob it may need to professionally programmed which will require the services of technicians. Try these easy techniques before purchasing a new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder which when inserted into ignition, transmits the signal. The signal informs the immobilizer in the car if the key is the right one to allow it to start. In the 1990s, theft of vehicles became an issue that the majority of manufacturers fitted this transponder security system into their vehicles for safety and insurance purposes.
If you have a brand newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key may be through a dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Before you visit make a note of the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). You can find this number on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in the owner's manual.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key in order to precisely replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site with a precise cutting machine. If your key has blade, fob or a thick grey/black head, it will need to be programmed for your vehicle before you can use it to start the motor.