Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all been there the car keys won't turn on the ignition. It could occur at the worst moment, for instance, when you're loading your car with groceries or heading home from work.
There are many different solutions that can bring you back on the way. Here are some of the most common automotive key problems and their solutions:
Broken or bent key
The most frequent reason an owner of a car cannot begin their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is a simple fix. It may sound simple however it is crucial to do it carefully. The key is thin and can break if bent even slightly.
You'll need a solid work surface as well as a pair of pliers to accomplish this. Grab the key at one end with the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface, or in a vise. After that, you can place it in the lock to see whether it turns.
If not, it may be time to have a new key cut. This will save you from needing to call a locksmith, and can ensure that your key will work.
It's a good idea keep a spare key in your pocket, so you don't have access to your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.
If you're having issues with a bent or broken key, you can try applying lubrication on it before inserting it into the lock. This will allow it move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. Spray lubricant or graphite powder. If you are using a spray, ensure you attach the plastic tubing included with it for an easier application. This will also help to keep moisture from damaging your key.
Stuck pins and springs
A pin (also known as a roll pin or a spring) may get stuck. Pins are small 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends, which are used to connect 2 parts of an equipment. In most cases, you can remove a nut by pulling it off using your fingers or the wrench.
If you have an older vehicle that has microchip keys it is likely that the key needs to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This procedure can be easy or difficult depending on the car's manufacturer and model.
Call us if you need assistance with your car locks or keys! We can repair, replace or program nearly any key for your vehicle.
Gear selector
If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, it's crucial to take it to an expert mechanic immediately. This is a safety issue and could result in serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. This is also a sign of more serious issues in the transmission system that could be expensive to fix.
Luckily, most of the time, this issue is easily fixable. The cable end that is connected to the lever can snap or become disconnected. The mechanic can fix this issue in a matter of minutes.
In some instances there are instances where the gear selector bushing may become damaged or worn out. Rubber covers are positioned around the articulation points of the gear system to make it more fluid. These covers function similar to the cartilage in your joints, which is why they must be flexible and healthy.
It's not uncommon for them to wear out in time, but there are a few things you can do to prolong their life. You should avoid the gear selection in very cold weather. This is because the gear control cables tend to freeze and cracking. You should also replace your bushings, such as those made by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are an essential component of your gear selector, and should not be ignored. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to visit an auto repair shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the right parts to restore the gear selection system. car key fob repair near me can also provide a range of other services, such as transmission service and maintenance.
Dead battery
If you switch the ignition on and you hear only a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo natural processes that cause them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to become coated with sulfate crystal deposits.
A dead battery can also cause you to lose the electrical power in your vehicle which can cause the radio or electric windows to fail. If you've been having difficulty starting your car during cold weather, this could be a sign you require an upgrade to your battery.
It is possible that your issue is not caused by an issue with your battery, but rather a malfunction in the charging system. Your mechanic should ensure that the serpentine belt, alternator and battery cables are all working correctly can resolve this problem.
Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is a key fob that has stopped working properly. The key fob is a tiny unit that connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and accessory systems. The system could be confused or stop communicating if it becomes wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.
It is possible to reset the lost key fob following the steps in your owner's manual. Depending on your vehicle, you may need to open and close the doors, turn lights and other electronic devices on and off, press a certain sequence of buttons, or even open and shut the windows. If this doesn't fix your fob, it may require professional programming and will require a special technician. It's worth attempting these steps before you decide to shell out for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder which when inserted into ignition, sends out 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 an issue that many manufacturers installed this transponder security system in their vehicles for security and insurance reasons.
If you have a brand newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key could be through a dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car prior to 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 with you to an participating AutoZone store and a representative will use an instrument to trace the contours of your blank key to precisely replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on-site by a cutting machine that is precise. If your key is equipped with an edge, a fob, or a thick grey/black head it will need to be programmed to your car before you can start the motor.