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 in the ignition. It could occur at the most inconvenient time, such as when you are loading your car with groceries or heading home from work.
Instead of panicking, there are several different solutions to get you back on the road. Here are a few common automotive key problems and solutions:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most common reason why a car owner is unable to start their vehicle. This can be easily repaired by simply straightening the key. It may sound simple, but it is important to do it with care. The key is very thin and may break if bent even a little.
You'll need a solid work surface and a pair pliers for this. Hold the key at one end with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. This should be done on a flat surface or in a vise. Then, you can put it into the lock to see if it turns.
If not, it could be time to have a new key cut. This will prevent you from needing to call a locksmith and will ensure your key will work.
It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your pocket so that you don't have a way into your vehicle in the event of a broken key.
If you are having trouble inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying some grease to it. This will allow it move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming 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 help to stop moisture from ruining your key.
Stuck pins and springs
Sometimes a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring may become stuck. A pin is a small piece of steel that measures between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long and has hollow ends. It is used to connect two components of an equipment. In the majority of instances, it is possible to remove pins by simply pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.
If you own a brand new car that uses an electronic key with a microchip inside, there is an opportunity that the key has to be programmed to work with your car. This procedure can differ based on the car and manufacturer.
If you need assistance with your keys for your vehicle or locks, give us call! We can repair or replace any vehicle key.
Gear Selector
If your car's gear selector gets stuck in park mode, it's crucial to bring it to an expert mechanic immediately. It's a safety concern and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This is also a sign of larger issues with the transmission that could be costly to repair.
Fortunately, the majority of the time, this issue can be easily fixed. The cable end that is attached to the lever may snap or become disconnected. This is a simple fix, and the mechanic can usually complete the task in a couple of minutes.
In some instances the gear selector bushing can become damaged or worn out. The rubber covers are put around the articulation points of the gear system to keep it fluid. These covers function similar to the cartilage in your joints, and therefore need to be healthy and flexible.
You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few simple things. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector in very cold temperatures. This is because the cables controlling the gear tend to freeze and cracking. You should also replace your bushings, such as ones made by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are an essential part of your selection of gears and shouldn't be ignored. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to visit an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you to locate the ideal parts to fix your gear selector apparatus. They can also provide a range of other services, such as maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you switch the ignition key and you hear only a click, then your battery is dead. Most batteries last between three and five years and as they age, they go through an natural process that causes them to die early. This is because the negative plates of the battery of your car will begin to be coated with crystals of sulfate.
key repair car could cause your vehicle to lose power, which could result in the radio or electric window malfunctioning. If you've been having difficulty starting your car during cold weather this could be a sign that you require an upgrade to your battery.
It is possible that your issue is not caused by an unresponsive battery but a malfunction in 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 common repair for a key in the automotive is an ignition key that isn't working properly. The key fob connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays signals as well as commands between the engine and the accessory systems. The system may become confused or stop communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed extreme temperatures or is wet.
Follow the instructions in the owner's manual to reset the lost keyfob. Based on the model it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't work for your fob, it could require professional programming by a special technician. Try these easy techniques before buying the new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder, which when inserted into ignition, transmits the signal. The signal informs an immobilizer if the key is correct for the car to begin. In the 1990s, theft of vehicles became such a problem that most manufacturers fitted this transponder security device in their vehicles for safety and insurance purposes.
If you have a newer vehicle, the only option to change your keys is to visit the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle before you go. It is located on the dashboard's front, door jamb, or in your owner's manual.
Bring your working key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will use a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site using a precision cutting machine. If your key is equipped with blade, fob or a large grey/black head it must be programmed to your car before you can use it to start the motor.