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 on the ignition. It can occur at the most inconvenient moment, like when you're loading your trunk full of groceries or returning home from work.
Instead of panicking, there are several different 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
The most frequent reason a car owner cannot start their vehicle is a bent key. This can be easily repaired by simply bending the key. This may seem simple but be cautious. The key is very thin and may break if you bend it even slightly.
key repair shop near me 'll need a sturdy work surface and a pair of pliers for this. Take the key at one end with the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on an even surface or in a vice. Then, you can place it in the lock to test if it will turn.
If not, it might be time to have a new key cut. You will not have to contact a locksmith and your key will work.
Keep an extra key in your pocket to ensure you're not without a way to enter your vehicle if yours breaks.
If you're having difficulty inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying some lubricant to it. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder, and will prevent it from getting stuck. Spray graphite powder or lubricant. If you are using a spray, be sure to attach the plastic tubing included with it for an easier application. This will also help to keep moisture from damaging your key.
Stuck pins or springs
Sometimes a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring could become stuck. Pins are small 2 to 3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends that are used to connect two parts of machines. In the majority of cases, you can remove a nut by pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.
If you own a brand new vehicle that is equipped with keys with microchips in it, there is a chance the key needs to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This procedure can be easy or complicated depending on the car's manufacturer and model.
Contact us if you require assistance with your car locks or keys! 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 get it checked by an expert mechanic immediately. This is a safety issue and could lead to serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This could also be a sign that your transmission system is experiencing bigger issues, which can be costly to fix.
Fortunately, the majority times, this issue can be easily fixed. The most frequent reason the gear selector could get stuck is that one of the cable ends has snapped off or disconnected from the lever itself. The mechanic can fix this in a few minutes.
In some instances, however, the gear selector bushing could become damaged or worn out. These are rubber covers that are placed around the articulation points within the gear system to help it shift more fluidly. These rubber covers function similarly to the cartilage that you have in your joints, which is why they require to be healthy and flexible.
It's not uncommon for them to wear out in time, but there are a few ways to extend their life. You should avoid the gear selection during extremely cold temperatures. This is because the gear control cables are often prone to freezing and cracking. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, such as the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are a critical element of your selection of gears and shouldn't be ignored. If you find that yours is worn out, it's a great idea to visit an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you to locate the right parts to repair your gear selector apparatus. They can also provide you with many other services, like maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you switch the ignition on but hear nothing but a click then your battery is dead. The majority of batteries last between three and five years, and as they get older, they go through natural processes that cause them to end up dying early. This is because the negative plates inside the battery of your car will begin to be coated with crystals of sulfate.
A dead battery can cause your vehicle to lose electrical power, which can result in the radio or electric window not working properly. If your car has been experiencing problems beginning in cold weather, this is a good sign that it's time for a new battery.
It's possible that the issue is not caused by an issue with your battery, but rather an issue with the charging system. Your mechanic should ensure that the serpentine belt, alternator and battery cables are working properly could solve this problem.
Key fobs that are not functioning properly is another common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob is connected to your vehicle's computer, and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. This system can get confused or stop communicating with your car when it is exposed extreme temperatures or is wet.
You can usually reset the lost key fob by following the instructions provided in your owner's manual. Based on the model, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix the issue, your device may require professional programming which will require the services of technicians. Try these easy techniques before buying the new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys include a transponder chip embedded in them that sends an electronic signal to a receiver inside the ignition when inserted. The signal informs an immobilizer that the key is right for the car to begin. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became such an issue that many manufacturers installed this transponder security system in their vehicles for security and insurance reasons.
If you own a brand new vehicle, the only way to change your keys is to visit the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you visit note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the dashboard, the door jamb or in the owner's guide.
Bring your current working key with you to an AutoZone store and a representative will employ an instrument to trace the contours of your blank key to precisely replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on-site with a precise cutting machine. If your key has blade, fob or a thick grey or black head, it will need to be programmed for your vehicle before you can use it to start the motor.