Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all been there: your car keys won't turn in the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, like when you're filling up your car with groceries or on your way to home from work.
Rather than panic, there are several different solutions to get you back on the road. Here are some common
automotive key repair problems and solutions for them:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most frequent reason a car owner can't start their car. Straightening the key is an easy fix. This may sound simple but it's important to do it carefully. The key is extremely thin and may break if bent even slightly.
To accomplish this, you will need a stable workspace, and an plier. Grab one end of the key using the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on an even surface or in a vice. After that, you can place it in the lock to see whether it will turn.
If not, you could need to get a new one made. This will save you from needing to call a locksmith and will ensure your key works.
It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your pocket, so that you don't find yourself without an entry point into your vehicle in the event of a lost key.
If you have trouble inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying grease to it. This will allow it to move through the cylinder, and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use a spray graphite powder or lubricant. Use the plastic tube that comes with the spray to ensure the most precise application. This will also help prevent moisture from damaging your device.
Stuck pins or springs
A pin (also known as a roll pin or spring) can sometimes become stuck. A pin is a small 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 parts of machines. In most instances, it is possible to remove a pin by simply pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.
If you have an older car that uses a microchip key it is possible that the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This process can be simple or difficult depending on the manufacturer and car.
If you need help with your car keys or locks give us a call! We can repair, replace, or program virtually any car key.
Gear selector
If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, you need to take it to a mechanic right away. It's a security issue, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This issue can also be a sign of more serious issues in the transmission system itself, which could be expensive to fix.
Most times this issue is easily fixable. The most common reason the gear selector could get stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped or separated from the lever itself. This is a simple fix and the mechanic can usually make it in a couple of minutes.
In some instances, the bushing of the gear selector might be damaged or worn. These are rubber coverings that cover articulation points in the gear system to help it move more smoothly. They perform the same function to cartilage in your knees so it's crucial that they remain in good shape and soft.
You can extend their life by doing a few easy things. 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 recommended to replace the bushings with high quality ones, such as those from First Line.
These bushings form an important element of your gear selector, and should not be ignored. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a great idea to go to an auto
repair car key fob shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They will help you locate the ideal parts to fix your gear selector device. They can also offer many other services, such as maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn the
key car repair in the ignition but hear only a click, then your battery is dead. The average battery lasts between three and five years, and as they age they go through an natural process that causes them to die prematurely. This is because the negative plates inside the battery in your car begin to become coated by 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 malfunction. If your
car key repairs has been experiencing problems starting in cold weather, it is an indication that it's time to get a new battery.
It's possible that your issue is not due to an unresponsive battery but an issue with the charging system. Having your mechanic check to verify that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are functioning properly can solve this issue.
Another common automotive key repair is an ignition key that isn't working properly. The key fob is a small device that connects to the computer in the vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and accessory systems. The system could become confused or cease communicating with your car when it is exposed to extreme temperatures or is wet.
It is possible to reset the lost key fob following the directions in the owner's guide. Based on the model it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronics on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If this does not fix your device, it could require professional programming, which will require the services of an expert. However, it's still worthwhile to try these easy steps before you decide to pay for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder chip built into them. It transmits signals to a receiver within the ignition when inserted. This signal informs the immobilizer inside the car whether the key is the right one to be used for starting. In the 1990s, car theft was an issue. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system for safety and insurance reasons.
If you own a brand new vehicle, the only option to replace your keys is to go to the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your
car key remote repair prior to you go. This number can be found on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in an owner's manual.
Bring your working key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member will make use of a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key to accurately duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with a precise cutting machine onsite. If the key you are using has blade, fob or a thick grey or black head it will need to be programmed for your vehicle before you can start the motor.