Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all experienced this when the car's key doesn't engage in the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient moments, like when you're filling your trunk with groceries or on your way to home from work.
There are many different solutions that can get you back on your way. Here are some of the most common key issues with cars and their solutions:
Broken or bent key
A bent key is the most frequent reason why a car owner is unable to start their car. This can be easily fixed by simply straightening the key. It may sound simple however it is crucial to do it with care. The key is extremely thin, and bending it even one degree can cause it to break.
You will need a stable work surface as well as a pair of pliers to do this. Take the key at the other end using the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface, or in a vise. You can then place it in the lock to see if it turns.
If not, it may be time to have a new key cut. This will avoid having to contact a locksmith and can ensure that your key will work.
It's a good idea to keep a spare in your pocket so that you don't find yourself without a way into your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.
If you're having difficulty inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying some lubricant to it. This will allow it move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use a spray graphite powder or lubricant. If broken car key repair near me are using a spray, be sure to attach the plastic tubing included with it for a more precise application. This will also stop moisture from damaging your device.
Pins that are snuck or springs
Sometimes a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring could get stuck. A pin is a small 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends, which are used to connect two components of a machine. In the majority of instances, it is possible to remove a pin by simply pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.
If you own a brand new car that uses an electronic key with a microchip inside, there is an opportunity that the key has to be programmed in order to work with your car. This process is different based on the car and manufacturer.
If you require assistance with your keys for your vehicle or locks, give us a call! We can repair, replace or programme almost any vehicle key.
Selector for gears
If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, it's important to get it checked by a mechanic right away. It's a safety issue and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This issue is also a sign of larger issues with the transmission system itself, which can be expensive to fix.
Most of the time this issue is easily fixable. The most common reason that the gear selector can get stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped off or disconnected from the lever itself. This is a straightforward fix and a mechanic will usually fix it within a few minutes.
In some instances, the bushings of the gear selector could be damaged or worn. These are rubber coverings that go around articulation points within the gear system to aid in making it shift more smoothly. These covers function similar to cartilage joints, which is why they must be healthy and flexible.
You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few easy things. The first is to avoid using the gear selector in very cold temperatures. This is because the gear control cables are often prone to freezing and cracking. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, like ones made by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are an essential component of your selection of gears and shouldn't be ignored. If you notice yours is damaged it is best to visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. They can assist you in finding the right parts to restore your gear selection device. They can also provide many other services, such as transmission service and maintenance.
Dead battery
If you turn your key into the ignition and hear nothing except a click, your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through a natural process which causes them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will start to become coated with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery could cause you to lose the electrical power in your vehicle, causing the radio or electric windows to stop working. If you've had trouble starting your car in cold weather, it could be a sign you require a new battery.
It's possible that your issue is not caused by an unresponsive battery but a malfunction in the charging system. This issue can be fixed by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables all work correctly.
A key fob that is not functioning properly is another common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob is a tiny device that connects to the computer in the vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and accessory systems. This system can become confused or stop communicating if it becomes submerged or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
It is usually possible to reset a lost key fob by following the steps in your owner's manual. Based on the model, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning 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 professionally programmed that will require the assistance of a technician. But it's still worth attempting these steps before deciding to pay for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys include a transponder chip built into them. It transmits an electronic signal to a receiver inside the ignition when inserted. The signal informs an immobilizer that the key is right to allow the car to start. In the 1990s theft of cars became such an issue that the majority of manufacturers installed this transponder security device in their vehicles to ensure safety and insurance reasons.
If you own a newer car, the only way to replace your key may be through a dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Before you go make a note of the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This can be found on the dashboard's front, door jamb, or in your owner's manual.
Bring your current key to an participating AutoZone store and a representative will utilize an instrument to trace the contours of your blank key to accurately replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site with a precise cutting machine. If the key you have is a blade-style, a key fob, or has a thick black or grey head, it'll have to be programmed to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.