Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all been there when the car's key doesn't turn on the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're filling up your car with groceries or when you're returning home from work.
Instead of repair car key , there are a variety of solutions to get you back on the road. Here are a few common automotive key problems and their solutions:
Broken or bent keys
The most common reason why a car owner cannot start their car is a bent key. Straightening the key is an easy fix. This might seem easy, but you must be careful. The key is very thin and could break if bent even slightly.
To accomplish this, you will need a stable workspace, and pliers. Take 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 in the lock to see whether it will turn.
If not, you might need to have a new one created. There is no need to call a locksmith and your key will still work.
Keep an extra key in your purse so you're not left without the ability to get into your vehicle in the event that your key is damaged.
If you are experiencing issues with a broken or bent key, try applying some lubrication on it before trying to insert it into the lock. This will allow it move more easily through the cylinder and prevent it from getting stuck. You can use a spray lubricant or graphite powder. Use the plastic tube that comes with the spray to get the most precise application. This will also help prevent moisture from ruining your key.
Pins that are snuck or springs
A pin (also known as a roll pin or a spring) may become stuck. Pins are small 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends used to connect two parts of an equipment. In the majority of cases, you can remove pins by simply pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.
If you own a brand new vehicle that is equipped with an electronic key with a microchip in it, there is an opportunity that the key has to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This process is different based on the model of car and the manufacturer.
If you require assistance with your keys for your vehicle or locks, give us a call! We can repair, replace or program almost every key for your vehicle.
Gear Selector
If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, it's crucial to get it checked by a mechanic as soon as you notice it. This is a safety concern and could result in serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. This could be a sign that the transmission is experiencing more serious problems, which are costly to fix.
Most times the issue is fixable. The cable end that is attached to the lever could snap or break off. The mechanic can repair this in a few minutes.
In some cases, however, the gear selector bushing could be damaged or worn out. Rubber covers are placed around the joints of the gear system to make it more fluid. They work in a similar manner to cartilage in your knees therefore it is important to ensure that they stay healthy and supple.
It's not uncommon for them to degrade over time, but there are a few ways to prolong their life. You should avoid the gear selection in very cold weather. This is because the cables controlling the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace the bushings with premium quality ones, such as those from First Line.
These bushings are a critical part of your gear selector and should not be overlooked. If you notice that yours is damaged it is best to visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. These experts can help you locate the ideal parts to restore the gear selector mechanism. They can also provide you with various other services, such as transmission service and maintenance.
Dead battery
If you turn the ignition on 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 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 become coated with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery could cause your vehicle to lose electrical power, which could result in the radio or electric window becoming unresponsive. If you've been having difficulties starting your car in cold weather this could be a sign that you require a new battery.
It is possible that your issue is not caused by a dead battery but an issue with the charging system. This issue can be fixed by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are working properly.
Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is an ignition key that isn't working properly. The key fob is connected to your vehicle's computer, and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. This system can get confused or cease communicating with your car if it is exposed to extreme temperatures or is wet.
Follow the instructions in the owner's manual to reset the keyfob that was lost. Depending on the type of vehicle, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronics on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't work for your fob, it could require professional programming and will require a special technician. It's worth trying these simple methods before you buy an entirely new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder chip built into them that sends a signal to a receiver in the ignition when it is inserted. The signal informs the immobilizer on the car if the key is the correct one to be used for starting. In the 1990s, car theft was a major problem. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system due to security and insurance reasons.
If you own a newer car, the only way to replace your keys could be through a dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Before you go there, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). You can find this number on the dashboard, the door jamb or in the owner's manual.
Bring your current working key to an participating AutoZone store and an associate will utilize machines to trace the contours of the key blank to accurately duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site using a precision cutting machine. If your key has a blade, a fob or a thick grey or black head it will need to be programmed for your vehicle before you can use it to start the motor.