Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all had this experience the car keys won't engage in the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient times, like when you're filling up your trunk with groceries or when you're 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 key
A bent key is the most frequent reason a car owner can't start their car. This can be easily fixed by simply straightening the key. It may sound simple but it's important to do this carefully. The key is very thin, and bending it even one degree can cause it to break.
You'll need a solid work surface as well as a pair of pliers for this. Take one end of the key using the pliers and bend it back until it is straight. This is best 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 may be time to get a new key cut. There is no need to call a locksmith and your key will function.
Keep a spare key in your pocket to ensure you're not left without a way to enter your vehicle if yours breaks.
If you're experiencing problems with a bent or broken key, try putting some lubrication on it before trying to insert it into the lock. This will enable it to move easier through the cylinder and prevent it from getting stuck. You can use a spray graphite powder or lubricant. If you are using a spray, ensure you attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure more precise application. This will also help prevent moisture from ruining your key.
Stuck pins or springs
Sometimes a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring can get stuck. Pins are a tiny piece of metal that is 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 remove a pin by simply pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.
If you have a newer car that uses keys with microchips in it, there is a chance the key needs to be programmed to work with your car. This can be a simple or difficult 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, it's important to take it to an expert mechanic immediately. It's a safety issue and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This issue is also a sign of bigger problems in the transmission system itself, which could be costly to repair.
Most times this issue is easily fixable. The cable end that is connected to the lever can snap or become disconnected. This is a simple fix, and the mechanic can usually make it within a few minutes.
In certain instances, the bushings on the gear selector could be damaged or worn. The rubber covers are put around the joints of the gear system to make it more fluid. These covers function similar to the cartilage in your joints, and therefore require to be healthy and flexible.
You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few basic things. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector in extremely cold temperatures. This is because the gear control cables tend to freeze and cracking. You should also replace the bushings with high quality ones, such as the ones from First Line.
These bushings form an essential component of your selection of gears and shouldn't be overlooked. If you find that yours is worn out it is best to visit an auto repair shop specializing in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you to locate the right parts to fix your gear selector device. They can also provide you with many other services, including maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you switch the ignition key and hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. The average battery lasts between three and five years and as they get older, they go through natural processes that cause them to end up dying prematurely. This is because the negative plates in your car battery will start to become coated with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery may cause the loss of the electrical power in your vehicle, causing the radio or electric windows to malfunction. If your car has been having issues starting in cold weather, this could be a good sign that it is time for an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes, the issue may not be due to a dead battery, but rather a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. A mechanic's check to make sure that the serpentine belt, alternator, and battery cables are working correctly can resolve this issue.
Another common automotive key repair is a key fob that has stopped working properly. The key fob is a tiny unit that connects to the vehicle's computer and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system may become confused or cease communicating with your car when it is exposed to extreme temperatures or gets wet.
Follow the steps in the owner's guide to reset the keyfob that was lost. Depending on the vehicle, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronic devices on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this does not fix the issue, your device may need to professionally programmed which requires the help of an expert. It's worth trying these simple techniques before buying the new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder chip built into them that sends signals to a receiver inside the ignition when it is inserted. The signal is sent to an immobilizer to determine if the key is correct to allow the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major issue. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system to ensure security and insurance reasons.
If you own a newer car, the only way to replace your key could be through the dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Before you go there, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This can be found on the dashboard's front or door jamb in the owner's manual.
Bring repair car key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member will make use of a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key in order to precisely duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with an exact cutting machine in-store. If your key has an edge, a fob or a large grey or black head it will need to be programmed for your vehicle before you can start the motor.