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 turn on the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're loading your car with groceries or on your way to home from work.
Rather than panic, there are several different solutions to get back on the road. Here are some common car key repair issues and solutions for them:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most frequent reason why car owners are unable to start their vehicle. Straightening the key is a simple fix. It may appear simple, but you must be careful. The key is very thin and bending it just small enough could cause it to break.
You'll need a sturdy work surface and a pair pliers to accomplish this. Grab one end of the key using the pliers and bend it back until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on a flat surface or in a vice. You can then put it in the lock to see if it changes.
If not, you might need to get a new one created. This will save you from having to call a locksmith, and will ensure your key will work.
It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your pocket, so you don't find yourself without an entry point into your vehicle in the event of a lost key.
If you're having issues with a broken or bent key, try applying some grease on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will allow it to move through the cylinder, and will prevent it from getting stuck. You can use a spray graphite or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray to get a more precise application. This will also prevent moisture from damaging your device.
Pins that are snuck or springs
A pin (also called a roll pin or a spring) can sometimes get stuck. Pins are a tiny piece of metal that is between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long with hollow ends. It is used to connect two pieces of an equipment. In most cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.
If you own a newer vehicle that is equipped with a key with a microchip in it, there's an opportunity for the key to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This procedure can differ based on the model of car and the manufacturer.
Call us if you need assistance with your automotive keys or locks! We are able to repair, replace or program almost any vehicle key.
Gear selector
If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, it's important to bring it to an expert mechanic immediately. This is a security issue and could result in serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. This could also be a sign that the transmission is experiencing more serious problems, which are costly to repair.
Most of the time the issue is fixable. Most of the time, the cable end that is attached to the lever may snap or become disconnected. The mechanic can repair this within a couple of minutes.
In some cases there are instances where the gear selector bushing can get damaged or worn out. These are rubber coverings that go around articulation points within the gear system, allowing it move more fluidly. click to find out more perform the same function to 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. It is best to avoid the gear selection in extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables controlling the gear are prone to freezing and cracking. It is recommended to replace the bushings with high quality ones, like those from First Line.
These bushings form an important component of your gear selector, and shouldn't be overlooked. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to go to an auto repair shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the right parts to restore your gear selection apparatus. They can also offer many other services, including maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn on your key in the ignition but you don't hear anything except a click, your battery is dead. Most batteries last between three and five years, and as they age they go through an natural process that causes them to end up dying early. This is because the negative plates inside the battery of your car will begin to become coated by crystals of sulfate.
A dead battery can cause your vehicle to lose power, which can lead to the radio or electric window malfunctioning. If you have been having difficulties starting your car in cold weather, it could be a sign that you require an upgrade to your battery.
It's possible that the problem is not an unresponsive battery but an issue with the charging system. A mechanic's check to make sure that the serpentine belt, alternator, and battery cables are all working properly could solve this problem.
A key fob that is not functioning properly is another common issue with automotive keys. The key fob is a tiny unit that connects to the computer in the vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and the accessory systems. The system could be confused or cease communicating if it becomes wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.
Follow the steps in your owner's guide to reset a lost keyfob. Depending on your vehicle it may be necessary to open and close the doors, turn lights and other electronic devices on and off, press a certain sequence of buttons, or close and open the windows. If this doesn't fix the issue, your device may need to professionally programmed that will require the assistance of an expert. Try these easy techniques before buying an entirely new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder chip embedded in them. It transmits an electronic signal to a receiver within the ignition when inserted. This signal tells the immobilizer in the car if the key is the correct one to be used for starting. In the 1990s, car theft was an issue. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system for safety and insurance reasons.
If you own a brand new vehicle, the only way to replace your keys is at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car before you go. It is located on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in the owner's manual.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. A representative will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key in order to precisely 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 hefty grey or black head on it, it'll require programming to the specific car you own before it can be used to start the engine.