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 in the ignition. repair car key happens at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're filling up your trunk with groceries, or on your way home from work.
Rather than panic instead, there are a variety of solutions to get you back on the road. Here are some of the most common key issues with cars and their solutions:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most frequent reason a car owner can't start their vehicle. It can be repaired by simply bending the key. This may seem simple but be careful. The key is very thin and could break if bent even a little.
To do this, you'll require an area that is stable, as well as an plier. Take the key at the other end using the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on an even surface or in a vice. Then, you can put it inside the lock to test whether it turns.
If not, it might be time to have a new key cut. You don't have to contact a locksmith and your key will function.
Keep an extra key in your pocket to ensure you don't have the ability to get into your vehicle if yours breaks.
If you're having difficulty inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying oil to it. This will help it move more easily through the cylinder and prevent it from getting stuck. You can use graphite as a spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray for a more precise application. This will also stop moisture from damaging your important.
Spring pins and springs with pins
Sometimes a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring can get stuck. Pins are a tiny piece of metal that measures between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long and has hollow ends. It is used to connect two pieces of a machine. In most cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it out using your fingers or 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 process is different based on the car and manufacturer.
If you need assistance with your keys for your vehicle or locks give us a call! We can repair, replace or program almost every vehicle key.
Gear Selector
It is essential to take your vehicle to a mechanic as fast as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a safety concern and you could cause serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. This issue is also a sign of more serious issues in the transmission system that could be costly to repair.
Most times this issue is easily fixable. Most often, the cable end that is attached to the lever may snap or come uncoupled. The mechanic can repair this within a couple of minutes.
In some cases the bushings of the gear selector could be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that go around joints within the gear system, allowing it shift more smoothly. They perform the same function as cartilage in your knees so it's crucial that they stay in good shape and soft.
You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few easy things. First, you should avoid using the gear selector in very cold temperatures. This is because the gear control cables tend to freeze and cracking. It is recommended to replace the bushings with high quality ones, like the ones from First Line.
These bushings are a critical component of your gear selector and should not be overlooked. If you find that yours is worn out it is best to visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the correct parts to repair your gear selection device. They can also offer a range of other services, like maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you switch the key in the ignition and you hear only a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo natural processes that cause them to die early. This is due to the negative plates in the battery in your car begin to become coated by sulfate crystals.
A dead battery may also cause your vehicle to lose power, which could cause the radio to stop working or electric window becoming unresponsive. If you've had trouble starting your car in cold weather this could be a sign that you need an upgrade to your battery.
It's possible that the issue is not caused by an issue with your battery, but rather an issue with the charging system. Having your mechanic check to make sure that the serpentine belt, alternator and battery cables are working correctly can resolve this problem.
A key fob that's not functioning properly is a common automotive key repair. The key fob is a small device that connects to your computer in your vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and accessory systems. The system could become confused or stop communicating with your vehicle if it is exposed to extreme temperatures or is wet.
Follow the steps in your owner's guide to reset a lost keyfob. Depending on the type of vehicle it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronics on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix your fob, it may need to be professionally programmed by an expert technician. However, it's still worth attempting these steps before you decide to shell out for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder which when inserted into ignition, transmits the signal. This signal informs the immobilizer inside the car if the key is the correct one to allow it to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major issue. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system to ensure security and insurance reasons.
If you have a brand newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key could be through the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Before you go make a note of 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 guide.
Bring your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member 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 a blade-style or a key fob or has a hefty black or grey head, it'll need to be programmed to your specific car before it can be used to start the engine.