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 occurs at the most inconvenient times, like when you're filling your trunk with groceries or when you're returning home from work.
Rather than panic instead, there are a variety of solutions to get you back on the road. Here are a few of the most common automotive key repair issues and possible solutions:
Broken or bent keys
The most common reason the owner of a car is unable to start their car is a bent key. This can be easily repaired by simply straightening the key. This may sound simple however it is crucial to do it carefully. The key is extremely thin, and bending it even a little can cause it to break.
You'll need a sturdy work surface as well as a pair of pliers to accomplish this. Grab the key at the other end using the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. This should be done on a flat surface, or in a vise. Then, you can place it inside the lock to see whether it will turn.
If not, you may require a new key made. There is no need to call a locksmith and your key will function.
It's a good idea keep a spare key in your pocket, so you don't find yourself without access to your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.
If you're having difficulty inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying some grease to it. This will allow it to move through the cylinder and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can apply graphite or spray lubricant. If you are using a spray, ensure you attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure more precise application. This will also help prevent moisture from ruining your key.
car key repair near me or springs
A pin (also known as a roll pin or spring) can become stuck. Pins are a small piece of metal that measures between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long with hollow ends. It is used to connect two components of an equipment. In most instances, you can take out pins by pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.
If you own an older vehicle that has microchip keys, it is possible that the key will need to be programmed in order to function with your car. This can be a simple or complex depending on the car's manufacturer and model.
Contact us for assistance with your vehicle locks or keys! We can repair, replace or program virtually any car key.
Gear Selector
If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, it's crucial to take it to an expert mechanic immediately. This is a safety concern and you could cause serious vehicle damage if continue driving. This issue is also a sign of bigger problems with the transmission itself, which can be expensive to fix.
Most times this issue is easily fixable. The most common reason that the gear selector may get stuck is that one of the cable ends has snapped off or disconnected from the lever itself. The mechanic can repair this within a couple of minutes.
In certain instances, the bushings of the gear selector may be damaged or worn. The rubber covers are put around the joints of the gear system in order to ensure that it is fluid. These covers work similarly to cartilage joints, and therefore must be healthy and flexible.
You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few simple things. The first is to avoid using the gear selector in extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables controlling the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. It is recommended to replace the bushings with premium quality ones, like the ones from First Line.
These bushings are an important element of your gear selector, and should not go unnoticed. If you find that yours is worn out, it's a great idea to visit an auto repair shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help you find the perfect parts to repair your gear selector apparatus. They also offer a variety of other services like transmission maintenance and service.
Dead battery
If you turn your key in the ignition but you don't hear anything other than a click, your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through a natural process which causes them to die prematurely. This is due to the negative plates inside the battery of your car will begin to become coated by crystals of sulfate.
A dead battery can also cause you to lose the power source in your car which can cause the radio or the electric windows to malfunction. If your car is having issues getting started in cold weather, it is an indication that it's time for an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes your problem might not be a dead battery, but rather an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. Your mechanic should verify that the serpentine belt, alternator and battery cables are working properly could solve this issue.
A key fob that is not functioning properly is another common automotive key repair. The key fob is connected to the computer in your car, and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. This system can become confused or stop communicating if it gets wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.
It is possible to reset the lost key fob following the steps in the owner's guide. Depending on the model of your car, you may need to open and close the doors, turn lights and other electronic devices off and on and press a particular sequence of buttons, or even close and open the windows. If this doesn't solve your device, it could require professional programming, which will require the services of a technician. It's worth trying these simple methods before you buy the new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys have a transponder chip embedded in them that sends an electronic signal to a receiver within the ignition when they are inserted. The signal informs the immobilizer inside the car whether it is the right one for it to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major problem. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system for safety and insurance reasons.
If you own a brand new vehicle, the only option to replace your keys is at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go there note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number can be found on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in the owner's guide.
Bring your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will use a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with an exact cutting machine in-store. If the key you have is a blade type or a key fob or has a hefty grey or black head, it'll require programming to the specific car you own before it can be used to start the engine.