Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all been there - your car key refuses to engage the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're loading your trunk with groceries or returning to home from work.
Instead of panicking There are many solutions to get you back on the road. Here are some common automotive key repair issues and their possible solutions:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most frequent reason why car owners are unable to start their vehicle. Straightening the key is a simple fix. This might seem easy but be cautious. The key is very thin and even bending it small enough could cause it to break.
To accomplish key car repair , you'll need a stable workspace, and a pair of pliers. Pick up 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 place it in the lock to test whether it will turn.
If not, you could need to have a new key made. You will not need to call a locksmith and your existing key will work.
Keep an extra key in your purse so you're not left without access to your vehicle if yours breaks.
If you're having difficulty inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying oil to it. This will allow it to move through the cylinder, and will prevent it from getting stuck. You can use a spray graphite or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray for an even more precise application. This will also help keep moisture from damaging your key.
Stuck pins or springs
Sometimes, a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring may get stuck. Pins are small 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends used to connect two parts of a machine. In the majority of cases, you can remove pins by pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.
If you own a newer car that has a key with a microchip in it, there is an opportunity for the key to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This can be a simple or complicated depending on the manufacturer and car.
If you need assistance with your keys for your vehicle or locks give us a call! We can repair, replace or program almost any vehicle key.
Gear selector
If your car's gear selector gets stuck in park mode, you need to get it checked by a mechanic as soon as you notice it. It's a security issue and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This problem can also be a sign of more serious issues in the transmission system itself, which could be expensive to fix.
Most times, this problem is easily fixable. The cable end that is connected to the lever could snap or break off. The mechanic can fix this issue in a matter of minutes.
In some cases the bushings on the gear selector may be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that cover articulation points in the gear system to aid in making it move more easily. They work in a similar manner as cartilage in your knees therefore it is important to ensure that they remain healthy and supple.
It's not unusual for them to wear out over time, however there are a few things you can do to extend their life. You should avoid the gear selection during extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables controlling the gear are prone to freezing and cracking. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, like ones made by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are an important part of your gear selector and should not go unnoticed. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to visit an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the right parts to restore your gear selection device. They can also provide many other services, including maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn on your key in the ignition and hear nothing except a click, your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through a natural process which causes them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be coated with sulfate crystalline deposits.
A dead battery may cause you to lose electrical power within your vehicle which can cause the radio or electric windows to fail. If your car has been experiencing problems getting started in cold weather, this is a good sign that it's time for an upgrade to your battery.
It's possible that your problem is not a dead battery but a malfunction in the charging system. This problem can be resolved by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all functioning properly.
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 accessory systems. This system can get confused or stop communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed harsh temperatures or gets wet.
Follow the instructions in the owner's manual to reset the lost keyfob. Depending on the type of vehicle it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronics on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your fob, it might need to be professionally programmed, which will require a special technician. But it's still worth trying these simple steps before you decide to shell out for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder, which, when inserted into the ignition, sends out an indication. This signal tells an immobilizer if the key is correct for the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft became a major issue. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system for safety and insurance reasons.
If you own a newer car, the only way to replace your key could be at the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car prior to you go. This can be found on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in the owner's manual.
Bring a fantastic read working key to an AutoZone store and a representative will use an instrument to trace the contours of your key blank to accurately duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on the spot using a precision cutting machine. If the key you have is a blade type or key fob or has a hefty grey or black head, it will require programming to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.