Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all had this experience when the car's key doesn't turn in the ignition. It could occur at the worst time, such as when you are loading your trunk with groceries or returning home from work.
Rather than panic There are many solutions to get back on the road. Here are some of the most common key issues in the automotive industry and solutions:
Broken or bent keys
The most common reason why an owner of a car cannot start their car is a bent key. This can be repaired by simply straightening the key. This might seem easy but be cautious. The key is extremely thin and even bending it one degree can cause it to break.
To accomplish this, you'll require a stable workspace, and a pair of pliers. Take one end of the key with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. This should be done on a flat surface, or in a vise. After that, you can place it inside the lock to determine whether it turns.
If not, it might be time to get a new key cut. This will prevent you from having to call a locksmith and will ensure your key will work.
Keep a spare key in your purse so you don't have the ability to get into your vehicle in the event that your key breaks.
If you're having issues with a bent or broken key, try applying some lubrication on it before trying to insert it into the lock. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder, and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. Use the plastic tube that comes with the spray to ensure an even more precise application. This will also prevent water from destroying your device.
Stuck pins or springs
Sometimes a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring can become stuck. Pins are small 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends, which are used to connect two parts of machines. In most cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it off using your fingers or the wrench.
If you have an older car that uses a microchip key it is likely that the key will need to be programmed to function with your car. This procedure can differ based on the manufacturer and car.
Contact us if you require assistance with your vehicle locks or keys! We can repair, replace, or program nearly any key for your vehicle.
key repairs to get your vehicle to a mechanic as quickly as you can when the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety issue, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This could also be a sign that your transmission system is having bigger problems that are expensive to fix.
Most of the time the issue is fixable. The most common reason that the gear selector may be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped or separated from the lever itself. The mechanic can repair this in a few minutes.
In some instances the gear selector bushing can become damaged or worn out. These are rubber coverings that go around articulation points in the gear system to help it move more fluidly. These covers function similar to the cartilage in your joints, and therefore require to be healthy and flexible.
You can extend the life of your gear selector by doing a few simple things. You should avoid the gear selection during extremely cold temperatures. The gear control cables could freeze and crack. You should also replace the bushings with high quality ones, such as those from First Line.
These bushings are an essential part of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you notice yours is damaged, you should visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the correct parts to repair your gear selection device. They can also offer a range of other services, including maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn the key in the ignition and you hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo an natural process that causes them to die prematurely. This is because the negative plates in the battery of your car will begin to become coated by sulfate crystals.
A dead battery could cause your car to lose electrical power, which could lead to the radio or electric window not working properly. If your car has been experiencing problems starting in cold weather, this could be an indication that it's time for an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes, your issue might not be caused by a dead battery, but a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. This issue can be fixed by having your mechanic verify that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables all work properly.
A key fob that is not functioning properly is another common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob is connected to your vehicle's computer and relays signals as well as commands between the engine and the accessory systems. This system can become confused or stop communicating if it gets wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
Follow the instructions in the owner's guide to reset the lost keyfob. Based on the vehicle you have, you may need to open and close the doors, switch lights and other electronic devices off and on, press a certain sequence of buttons, or open and shut the windows. If this doesn't solve your fob, it may need to be professionally programmed and will require an expert. It's worthwhile to try these easy steps before deciding to pay for a new device.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder, which when inserted into ignition, sends out the signal. The signal informs the immobilizer inside the car whether the key is the correct one for it to start. In the 1990s, theft of vehicles became an issue that many manufacturers put this transponder security device in their vehicles to ensure safety and insurance purposes.
If you have a brand newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key could be through the dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car before you leave. This number can be found on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in the owner's manual.
Bring your current working key along to an participating AutoZone store, and an associate will use an instrument to trace the contours of the key blank to accurately replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on the spot by a cutting machine that is precise. If your key has blade, fob, or a thick grey/black head, it will need to be programmed for your car before you can use it to start the motor.