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 engage the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, like when you're loading your trunk with groceries or returning home from work.
There are many solutions to get you back on your way. Here are a few of the most common automotive key repair problems and solutions for them:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most common reason why car owners are unable to start their car. It can be repaired by simply bending the key. It may appear simple but be cautious. The key is extremely thin, and bending it even small enough could cause it to break.
To do this, you will need an area with a solid foundation, as well as pliers. Pick up one end of the key with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on the floor or in a vice. Then, you can place it inside the lock to see whether it will turn.
If not, you may need to get a new one made. This will prevent you from having to call a locksmith and will ensure your key will function.
It's a good idea keep a spare key in your pocket, so that you don't find yourself without an entry point into your vehicle in the event of a lost key.
If you're experiencing problems with a bent or broken key, try putting some lubrication on it before inserting it into the lock. This will allow it to move through the cylinder and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. If you are using a spray, be sure to attach the plastic tubing included with it for a more precise application. This will also stop water from destroying your important.
Spring pins and springs with pins
A pin (also called a roll pin, or a spring) can get stuck. Pins are a tiny 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends, which are used to connect 2 parts of a machine. In the majority of cases, you can remove a nut by pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.
If you own an older car that is equipped with microchip keys it is possible that the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This can be a simple or complicated depending on the car's manufacturer and model.
Call us if you need assistance with your vehicle keys or locks! We can repair, replace or programme almost any vehicle key.
Selector for gears
It's crucial to take your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as you can when the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety concern, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This could also be a sign that the transmission system is experiencing bigger problems, which are costly to repair.
Fortunately, the majority of the time, this issue can be easily fixed. Most of the time, the cable that is connected to the lever can snap or break off. The mechanic can fix this in a few minutes.
In some cases the gear selector bushing could become damaged or worn out. These are rubber coverings that are placed around the articulation points within the gear system, allowing it shift more smoothly. They work in a similar manner as cartilage in your knees, so it's crucial to keep them healthy and flexible.
You can extend their life by doing a few simple things. You should avoid the gear selection in extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables controlling the gear are prone to freezing and cracking. It is recommended to replace the bushings using premium quality ones, like those from First Line.
These bushings form an important component of your gear selector and shouldn't be overlooked. If you notice yours is damaged you must visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you to locate the ideal parts to repair your gear selector apparatus. They also offer various other services like maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn your key in the ignition but you don't hear anything but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through a natural process which causes them to die prematurely. key repair near me of your car battery will start to become coated with sulfate crystalline deposits.
A dead battery may cause the loss of electrical power within your vehicle, causing the radio or electric windows to fail. If your car is having problems beginning in cold weather, this is a good sign that it is time for 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 issue can be fixed by having your mechanic verify that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all functioning properly.
A key fob that is not working properly is another common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob is a tiny device that connects to the computer in the vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and accessory systems. This system can get confused or stop communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed to harsh temperatures or gets wet.
It is usually possible to reset the lost key fob following the directions in your owner's manual. Based on the vehicle you have it may be necessary to open and close the doors, turn lights and other electronic devices off and on, press a certain sequence of buttons, or even open and shut the windows. If this doesn't fix your fob, it might need to be professionally programmed and will require a special technician. Try these easy techniques before purchasing an entirely new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder that when it is inserted into the ignition, transmits an indication. This signal tells an immobilizer if the key is correct to allow the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft was an issue. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system for safety and insurance reasons.
If you have a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your key could be through the dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car prior to you leave. It is located on the dashboard's front, door jamb, or in the owner's manual.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will make use of a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key to accurately duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site by a cutting machine that is precise. If the key you have is a blade style, a key fob, or has a large grey or black head on it, it'll need to be programmed to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.