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 turn on the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient moments, like when you're filling up your car with groceries or on your way home from work.
Rather than panic There are many solutions to get you back on the road. Here are some common key issues with cars and their solutions:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most frequent reason why car owners are unable to start their vehicle. It can be repaired by simply straightening the key. It might sound easy however it is crucial to do it with care. The key is very thin and could break if you bend it even slightly.
You'll need a sturdy work surface and a pair of pliers to do this. Pick up one end of the key using the pliers and bend it back until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface or in a vise. 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. You don't have to contact a locksmith and your key will still function.
It's a good idea to 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 are experiencing issues with a bent or broken key, try putting some lubrication on it before inserting it into the lock. key car repair will allow it to move through the cylinder, and will prevent it from getting stuck. You can use graphite as a spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray for the most precise application. This will also prevent moisture from damaging your key.
Stuck pins or springs
Sometimes, a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring may become stuck. Pins are a tiny 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends used to connect two components of an equipment. In the majority of cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.
If you have an older car that uses microchip keys, it is possible that the key will need to be programmed in order to work with your car. This can be a simple or complicated depending on the manufacturer and car.
If you need help 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 selection gets stuck in park mode, you need to get it checked by a mechanic right away. This is a safety concern and could result in serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. It could also be a sign that your transmission system is experiencing bigger problems that are expensive to fix.
Most of the time, this problem is easily fixable. Most of the time, the cable that is connected to the lever may snap or break off. The mechanic can fix this within a couple of minutes.
In some cases there are instances where the gear selector bushing could become damaged or worn out. These are rubber coverings that cover articulation points within the gear system to aid in making it move more fluidly. They function in a similar way as cartilage in your knees so it's crucial to keep them healthy and flexible.
You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few easy things. You should first avoid using the gear selection in extremely cold weather. 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, such as those from First Line.
These bushings are a critical component of your selection of gears and shouldn't be ignored. If you notice yours is worn out, you should visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the right parts to fix your gear selection device. They also offer many other services such as maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn your key in the ignition but you don't hear anything except a click, your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through natural processes that cause them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be covered with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery may cause you to lose the power source in your car which can cause the radio or electric windows to malfunction. If your car is experiencing problems beginning in cold weather, this is a good sign that it's time to get a new battery.
It is possible that your problem is not a dead battery but an issue with the charging system. This issue can be solved by having your mechanic check that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables all work properly.
Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is the key fob that isn't working properly. The key fob is a tiny device that connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and the accessory systems. The system may become confused or stop communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed to harsh temperatures or gets wet.
It is usually possible to reset a lost key fob by following the steps in the owner's guide. Based on the vehicle you have, you may need to open and close the doors, turn lights and other electronic devices off and on by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or even close and open the windows. If this doesn't fix your fob, it may require professional programming, which will require a special technician. It's worth trying these simple methods before you buy a new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys have an embedded transponder chip in them that sends a signal to a receiver in the ignition when they are inserted. The signal informs the immobilizer in the car whether the key is the right one to allow it to start. In the 1990s, car theft was an issue. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system for safety and insurance reasons.
If you have a brand newer vehicle, the only way to replace your keys could be through a dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle before you leave. This number can be found on the dashboard, the door jamb, or in the owner's guide.
Bring your current key to a participating AutoZone store and an associate will use a machine to trace the contours of your key blank to accurately replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using an exact cutting machine on site. If your key is blade type or a key fob or has a large black or grey head, it'll require programming to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.