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 turn in the ignition. It could happen at the worst possible moment, for instance, when you're loading your car with groceries or heading home from work.
Instead of panicking instead, there are a variety of options to get you back on the road. Here are some common key issues with cars and solutions:
Broken or bent key
The most common reason an owner of a car cannot start their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is a simple fix. It may sound simple however it is crucial to do it with care. The key is very thin and even bending it one degree can cause it to break.
You will need a stable work surface and a pair of pliers to accomplish this. Hold the key at the other end using the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on an even surface or in a vice. Then, you can place it in the lock to test whether it turns.
If not, you may need to have a new one made. There is no need to call a lock-smith and your key will work.
Keep an extra key in your pocket to ensure you're not without the ability to get into your vehicle if yours is damaged.
If you have trouble inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying oil to it. This will allow it to move through the cylinder, and prevent it from becoming stuck. Spray graphite or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray for an even 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 could get stuck. Pins are a tiny 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends, which are used to connect two components of an equipment. In most cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.
If you have a newer vehicle that is equipped with an electronic key with a microchip in it, there's an opportunity that the key has to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This process can be simple or difficult depending on the car's model and manufacturer.
Call us if you need assistance with your automotive locks or keys! We can repair, replace or program almost any vehicle key.
Gear Selector
If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, you need to take it to an expert mechanic immediately. It's a security issue and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This issue could also indicate more serious issues with the transmission itself, which could be expensive to fix.
Luckily, most of the time, this issue can be easily fixed. Most of the time, the cable that is connected to the lever may snap or break off. This is a simple fix and a mechanic will usually complete the task in a couple of minutes.
In some instances, the bushing of the gear selector may be damaged or worn. These are rubber coverings that cover articulation points in the gear system to aid in making it shift more fluidly. These rubber covers function similarly to the cartilage in your joints, so they must be healthy and flexible.
You can extend the life of your gear selector by doing a few basic things. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector in very cold temperatures. The gear control cables could freeze and crack. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, like those made by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are an essential part of your gear selector and should not be overlooked. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to visit an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you to locate the ideal parts to restore your gear selector apparatus. They can also provide various other services, such as transmission service and maintenance.
Dead battery
If you turn on your key in the ignition and you hear nothing except a click, your battery is dead. The majority of batteries last between three and five years and as they get older, they undergo natural processes that cause them to end up dying early. The negative plates of your car battery will start to become coated with sulfate crystal deposits.
A dead battery could cause your vehicle to lose electrical power, which can lead to the radio or electric window not working properly. If you've been having difficulty starting your car during cold weather this could be a sign that you require a new battery.
It is possible that your issue is not due to a dead battery but an issue with the charging system. This problem can be resolved 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 connected to your vehicle's computer and relays signals as well as commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system can be confused or cease communicating if it becomes wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
It is usually possible to reset the lost key fob by following the directions in the owner's manual. Depending on the type of vehicle it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronics on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your fob, it might need to be professionally programmed and will require a special technician. However, it's still worthwhile to try these easy steps before you decide to shell out for a new device.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys include a transponder chip built into them. It transmits a signal to a receiver within the ignition when inserted. This signal tells the immobilizer on the car if it is the right one to be used for starting. In the 1990s, car theft became a major problem. car key fob repair near me of manufacturers have installed this transponder system for safety and insurance reasons.
If you own a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your keys is to go to the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go there, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the front of the dashboard or door jamb in your owner's manual.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with a precise cutting machine onsite. If your key has an edge, a fob or a large grey or black head it must be programmed for your vehicle before you can start the motor.