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 engage in the ignition. It can occur at the most inconvenient moment, for instance, when you are loading your trunk with groceries or returning home from work.
Rather than panic There are many options to get you back on the road. Here are a few of the most common automotive key repair problems and possible solutions:
Broken or bent keys
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 however it is crucial to do this carefully. The key is thin and could break if bent even slightly.
You'll need a solid work surface as well as a pair of pliers to accomplish this. Take the key on one end with the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on a flat surface or in a vice. You can then place it into the lock to see if it changes.
If not, it may be time to have a new key cut. There is no have to contact a locksmith and your key will still function.
Keep a spare key in your pocket to ensure you're not without access to your vehicle if yours breaks.
If you're experiencing problems with a bent or broken key, try applying some grease on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will help it move more easily through the cylinder and stop it from getting stuck. You can apply graphite or spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray to ensure an even more precise application. This will also help prevent water from destroying your important.
Spring pins and springs with pins
A pin (also called a roll pin or spring) may 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 2 parts of an equipment. In the majority of cases, you can remove a pin by simply pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.
If you have an older car that uses a microchip key, it is possible that the key will need to be programmed in order to work with your car. This process is different based on the manufacturer and car.
If you require assistance with your keys for your vehicle or locks, give us a call! We are able to repair or replace every vehicle key.
Selector for gears
If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, it's crucial to bring it to a mechanic right away. It's a security issue and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This issue is also a sign of larger issues in the transmission system itself, which can be expensive to fix.
Most times, this problem is easily fixable. Most of the time, the cable end that is connected to the lever could snap or become disconnected. The mechanic can repair this within a couple of minutes.
In some instances there are instances where the gear selector bushing may become damaged or worn out. These are rubber covers that are placed around the joints within the gear system to help it shift more fluidly. They work in a similar manner to cartilage in your knees, so it's important that they remain healthy and flexible.
You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few basic things. You should first avoid using the gear selection during extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables controlling the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace your bushings, for instance the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are an essential part of your gear selector and should not be overlooked. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to visit an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you in finding the right parts to restore the gear selection system. They can also offer a range of other services, such as maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you switch the ignition key and hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. The average battery lasts between three and five years, and as they age, they go through natural processes that cause them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will start to become coated with sulfate crystalline deposits.
A dead battery can cause your vehicle to lose electrical power, which could cause the radio to stop working or electric window becoming unresponsive. If you have been having trouble starting your car in cold weather, this could be a sign you need an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes your problem might not be a dead battery, but a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. A mechanic's check to ensure that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are working correctly can resolve this issue.
Another common repair for a key in the automotive is the key fob that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob is a small device that connects to the computer in the vehicle and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system may be confused or cease communicating if it becomes submerged or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
It is usually possible to reset the lost key fob by following the directions in the owner's guide. Depending on the type of vehicle it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronics on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your fob, it might require professional programming by an expert technician. It's worth attempting these steps before you decide to shell out for a new device.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with an embedded transponder chip in them. It transmits an electronic signal to a receiver in the ignition when inserted. This signal tells an immobilizer if the key is correct to allow the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major issue. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system due to security and insurance reasons.
If you have a brand newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key could be through a dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Before you go note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). key car repair is usually found on the dashboard's front or door jamb in the owner's manual.
Bring your current key along to an AutoZone store and a representative will use machines to trace the contours of the key blank to precisely replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using an exact cutting machine on site. If the key you have is a blade type or a key fob or has a hefty grey or black head, it'll have to be programmed to the specific car you own before it can be used to start the engine.