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 turn on the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient moments, like when you're filling up your trunk with groceries, or on your way to home from work.
Instead of panicking There are many solutions to get you back on the road. Here are a few common car key repair issues and possible solutions:
Broken or bent key
The most frequent reason the owner of a car is unable to begin their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is a simple fix. It may sound simple however it is crucial to do it with care. The key is extremely thin and could break if bent even slightly.
You'll need a solid work surface and a pair pliers to accomplish this. Take one end of the key with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface, or in a vise. After that, you can place it inside the lock to see whether it turns.
If not, it could be time to get a new key cut. You don't need to call a lock-smith and your existing key will work.
It's a good idea keep a spare key in your pocket so that you don't find yourself without access to your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.
If you're having issues with a bent or broken key, you can try applying oil on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will help it move through the cylinder and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. If you're using a spray ensure you attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure a more precise application. This will also help to prevent moisture from ruining your key.
Pins that are snuck or springs
Sometimes, a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring may get stuck. Pins are small 2 to 3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends, which are used to connect two components of machines. In the majority of cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.
If you own a newer vehicle that is equipped with an electronic key with a microchip inside, there is an opportunity for the key to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This procedure can differ based on the model of car and the manufacturer.
Call us if you need assistance with your automotive keys or locks! We can repair, replace or program almost any vehicle key.
Gear Selector
It's important to get your car to a mechanic as fast as you can when the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a security issue, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This could be a sign that the transmission system is having bigger issues, which can be costly to repair.
Luckily, most times, this issue is easily fixable. Most often, the cable end that is attached to the lever could snap or come uncoupled. This is a straightforward fix and a mechanic should be able to make it in a couple of minutes.
In certain instances there are instances where the gear selector bushing may get damaged or worn out. These are rubber coverings that go around articulation points in the gear system to help it shift more smoothly. They perform the same function to cartilage in your knees so it's important that they stay healthy and flexible.
It's not unusual for them to degrade over time, however there are a few things you can do to prolong their life. First, you should avoid using the gear selector during extremely cold temperatures. The gear control cables can freeze and break. You should also replace your bushings, for instance those made by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings form an essential part of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you notice that yours is damaged, you should visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you in finding the right parts to fix your gear selection device. They also provide a variety of other services, including transmission maintenance and service.
Dead battery
If you switch the ignition on and you hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. The majority of batteries last between three and five years and as they age, they go through a natural process that causes them to end up dying prematurely. This is because the negative plates inside the battery of your car will begin to become coated by crystals of sulfate.
A dead battery could cause you to lose electrical power within your vehicle which can cause the radio or the electric windows to fail. If your car has been experiencing problems beginning in cold weather, this could be an indication that it's time to get an upgrade to your battery.
It's possible that the problem is not an unresponsive battery but an issue with the charging system. This problem can be resolved by having your mechanic check that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are working correctly.
Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is an ignition key that isn't 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 get confused or cease communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed to extreme temperatures or gets wet.
It is possible to reset the lost key fob following the directions in your owner's manual. Depending on the type of vehicle it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix your fob, it might need to be professionally programmed by a special technician. Try these easy techniques before buying a new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder, which, when inserted into the ignition, sends out the signal. The signal informs the immobilizer on the car if it is the right one to be used for starting. In the 1990s, car theft was 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 may be through the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle before you leave. This can be found on the dashboard's front or door jamb in the owner's manual.
Bring key fob repair near me to an AutoZone participating store. A representative will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using a precise cutting machine onsite. If your key is equipped with a blade, a fob or a large head that is grey or black it will need to be programmed for your vehicle before you can use it to start the motor.