Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all had this experience when the car's key doesn't turn in the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient moments, like when you're loading your trunk with groceries or when you're returning to home from work.
There are a variety of solutions to help you get back on your way. Here are some common automotive key repair issues and possible solutions:
Broken or bent key
A bent key is the most common reason why a car owner is unable to start their car. Straightening the key is an easy fix. It may sound simple but it's important to do it with care. The key is extremely thin, and bending it even a little can cause it to break.
You will need a stable work surface as well as a pair of pliers to accomplish this. Hold the key at the other end using the pliers and bend it until it is straight. This should be done on a flat surface or in a vise. You can then put it into the lock to see if it changes.
If not, you could require a new key made. This will prevent you from having to call a locksmith, and will ensure that your key will function.
It's a good idea keep a spare in your pocket, so you don't end up without a way into your vehicle in the event of a broken key.
If you have trouble inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying some oil to it. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder and will prevent it from getting stuck. You can apply graphite or spray lubricant. If you're using a spray ensure that you attach the plastic tubing that came with it for more precise application. This will also stop water from destroying your important.
Spring pins and springs with pins
A pin (also called a roll pin or a spring) can become stuck. Pins are a tiny 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends that are used to connect two components of an equipment. In the majority of instances, you can take out a pin by simply pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.
If you own a newer car that has an electronic key with a microchip in it, there is an opportunity that the key has to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This process is different based on the model of car and the manufacturer.
Call us if you need assistance with your car locks or keys! We can repair, replace or programme nearly any key for your vehicle.
Gear Selector
It is essential to take your vehicle to a mechanic as fast as you can when the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety 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 that could be expensive to fix.
Most of the time this issue is easily fixable. The most frequent reason the gear selector could get stuck is that one of the cable ends has snapped, or repair car keys near me become uncoupled from the lever itself. The mechanic can repair this within a couple of minutes.
In some cases the gear selector bushing may become damaged or worn out. These are rubber covers that are placed around the articulation points in the gear system to help it shift more fluidly. They work in a similar manner as cartilage in your knees so it's crucial to keep them in good shape and soft.
It's not uncommon for them to wear out over time, however there are some things you can do to extend their life. First, you should avoid using the gear selector in very cold temperatures. The cables that control the gears can freeze and break. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, like those made by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are an important part of your gear selector, and should not go unnoticed. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to go to an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the correct parts to repair the gear selection system. They can also offer many other services such as transmission maintenance and service.
Dead battery
If you turn your key in the ignition and you hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. Most batteries last between three and five years, and as they age they go through natural processes that cause them to end up dying prematurely. This is because the negative plates of the battery of your car will begin to become coated with crystals of sulfate.
A dead battery could cause you to lose the electrical power in your vehicle which can cause the radio or the electric windows to fail. If you've had difficulty starting your car during cold weather, it could be a sign you need an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes, the issue may not be caused by a dead battery, but a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. Having your mechanic check to ensure that the serpentine belt, alternator, and battery cables are working properly could solve this issue.
Key fobs that are not functioning properly is a common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob is a tiny unit that connects to the vehicle's computer and relays commands and signals between the engine and the accessory systems. The system could be confused or stop communicating if it is wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.
Follow the instructions in the owner's guide to reset the keyfob that was lost. Depending on the type of vehicle it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronic devices on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your fob, it may need to be professionally programmed and will require an expert. But it's still worthwhile to try these easy steps before you decide to pay for a new device.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder which, when inserted into the ignition, transmits an indication. The signal informs the immobilizer in the car if the key is the correct one to be used for starting. In the 1990s theft of cars became such an issue that many manufacturers installed this transponder security device in their vehicles for security and insurance purposes.
If you have a newer car, the only way to replace your key may be through the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car before you leave. This number is usually found on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in your owner's manual.
Bring your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. A representative will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key to accurately duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on-site by a cutting machine that is precise. If your key is blade-style or key fob or has a large grey or black head on it, it'll need to be programmed to the specific car you own before it can be used to start the engine.