Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all experienced this the car keys won't engage in the ignition. It could happen at the worst possible moment, for instance, when you're filling your car with groceries or heading home from work.
Rather than panic There are many solutions to get back on the road. Here are a few common key issues in the automotive industry and solutions:
Broken or bent keys
The most common reason the owner of a car is unable to start their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is an easy fix. This might seem easy, but you must be cautious. The key is extremely thin and can break if you bend it even slightly.
You'll need a sturdy work surface and a pair pliers to accomplish this. Take one end of the key using the pliers and bend it back until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on an even surface or in a vice. You can then put it into the lock to see if it turns.
If not, it may be time to get a new key cut. This will avoid needing to contact a locksmith and can ensure that your key will function.
It's a good idea keep a spare key in your pocket, so that you don't have an entry point into your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.
If you are having trouble inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying some oil to it. This will help it move through the cylinder and prevent it from getting stuck. It is possible to use a spray graphite powder or lubricant. If using a spray, be sure to attach the plastic tubing included with it for an easier application. This will also stop water from destroying your important.
Stuck pins or springs
A pin (also known as a roll pin or a spring) can sometimes become stuck. Pins are small 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends used to connect two parts of a machine. In most cases, you can remove pins by simply pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.
If you have a newer car that has a key with a microchip in it, there is a chance the key needs to be programmed to work with your car. This process can vary depending on the model of car and the manufacturer.
If you require assistance with your car keys or locks, give us call! We can repair, replace or program almost any vehicle key.
Selector for gears
If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, it's important to take it to an expert mechanic immediately. It's a security issue and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This problem could also indicate bigger problems with the transmission itself, which can be costly to repair.
Most of the time this issue is easily fixable. The most common reason the gear selector could get stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped, or separated from the lever itself. This is a simple fix and a mechanic will usually fix it in a couple of 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 keep it fluid. They work in a similar manner as cartilage in your knees therefore it is important to ensure that they remain healthy and supple.
It is not uncommon for them to degrade over time, however there are a few ways to prolong their life. You should avoid the gear selection during extremely cold temperatures. The cables that control the gears can freeze and crack. You should also replace the bushings with high quality ones, such as those from First Line.
These bushings are a critical element of your selection of gears and shouldn't be ignored. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a great idea to go to an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They will help you locate the right parts to fix the gear selector mechanism. They also offer various other services such as maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn the key in the ignition and hear only a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo an natural process that causes them to die early. This is due to the negative plates in the battery of your car will begin to be coated with crystals of sulfate.
A dead battery may also cause your car to lose power, which could result in the radio or electric window becoming unresponsive. If you've been having difficulty starting your car during cold weather, it could be a sign you need a new battery.
Sometimes, your issue might not be a dead battery, but an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. This problem can be resolved by having your mechanic verify that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are working properly.
Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is an ignition key that has stopped functioning 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 could become confused or stop communicating if it is wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
Follow the steps in your owner's guide to reset the lost keyfob. Based on the vehicle you have, you may need to open and close the doors, turn the lights and other electronic devices off and on by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or shut and open the windows. If this does not fix your device, it could need to professionally programmed that will require the assistance of technicians. repair car key to try these easy steps before you decide to shell out for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys have an embedded transponder chip in them that sends signals to a receiver within the ignition when they are inserted. The signal is sent to an immobilizer to determine that the key is right 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 have a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your keys could be through a dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Before you go there make a note of the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number can be found on the dashboard, the door jamb, or in the owner's guide.
Bring your current working key with you to a participating AutoZone store and an associate will employ machines 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 in-store. If the key you are using has blade, fob or a large grey or black head, it will need to be programmed for your car before you can start the motor.