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 the ignition. It can occur at the worst moment, for instance, when you're loading your trunk with groceries or driving home from work.
Rather than panic instead, there are a variety of options to get you back on the road. Here are some of the most common automotive key problems and solutions:
Broken or bent key
The most common reason why an owner of a car cannot start their car is a bent key. This can be repaired by simply bending the key. key repair service near me might seem easy, but you must be cautious. The key is extremely thin and bending it just a little can cause it to break.
You'll need a solid work surface and a pair of pliers to accomplish this. Take the key at one end with the pliers, and bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on a flat surface or in a vice. Then, you can place it in the lock to see if it will turn.
If not, you could need to get a new key made. You don't need to call a locksmith and your key will still function.
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're experiencing problems with a bent or broken key, you can try applying oil on it prior to inserting it into the lock. my latest blog post will help it move more easily through the cylinder and stop it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray for a more precise application. This will also stop moisture from damaging your key.
Pins that are snuck or springs
A pin (also called a roll pin or a spring) can sometimes get stuck. A pin is a small 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends used to connect two components of an equipment. In most cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench.
If you have a newer car that uses keys with microchips in it, there's an opportunity that the key has to be programmed to work with your car. This process is different based on the car and manufacturer.
If you need assistance with your keys for your vehicle or locks, give us call! We can repair, replace or programme almost any vehicle key.
Gear Selector
It's crucial to take your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a safety issue and could result in serious vehicle damage if continue driving. This could be a sign that your transmission system is having bigger problems, which are costly to repair.
Most of the time, this problem is easily fixable. The most common reason that the gear selector may be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped off or become uncoupled from the lever itself. The mechanic can fix this issue in a matter of minutes.
In certain instances there are instances where the gear selector bushing may become damaged or worn out. These are rubber covers that go around articulation points within the gear system to help it move more fluidly. They work in a similar manner as cartilage in your knees, so it's crucial that they remain healthy and supple.
You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few basic things. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector during extremely cold weather. This is because the cables controlling the gear are prone to freezing and cracking. It is recommended to replace the bushings with premium quality ones, like the ones from First Line.
These bushings form an essential element of your selection of gears and shouldn't be overlooked. If you notice 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 right parts to restore the gear selector mechanism. They also offer many other services, including maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn your key in the ignition and you hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through a natural process which causes them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will start to be covered with sulfate crystalline deposits.
A dead battery could cause your vehicle to lose electrical power, which can result in the radio or electric window malfunctioning. If your car has been having problems beginning in cold weather, it is an indication that it is time for a new battery.
It is possible that your problem is not 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 all work correctly.
Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is the key fob that has stopped working properly. The key fob is a small device that connects to your vehicle's computer and relays commands and signals between the engine and accessory systems. The system could become confused or stop communicating if it is wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.
You can usually reset the lost key fob following the steps in the owner's manual. Based on the vehicle you have you may have to open and close the doors, switch lights and other electronic devices off and on, press a certain sequence of buttons, or shut and open the windows. If this doesn't work for your fob, it might need to be professionally programmed, which will require a special technician. However, it's still worthwhile to try these easy steps before you decide to shell out for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys have a transponder chip built into them that transmits a signal to a receiver in the ignition when they are inserted. The signal informs an immobilizer whether the key is in the right place to allow the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft became an issue. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system due to safety and insurance reasons.
If you own a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key could be at the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Before you go there note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). You can find this number on the dashboard, the door jamb, or in an owner's manual.
Bring your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member will use a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key to accurately duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on-site using a precision cutting machine. If your key is equipped with an edge, a fob, or a thick grey or black head, it will need to be programmed for your car before you can use it to start the motor.