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 occurs at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're filling up your trunk with groceries, or returning home from work.
There are many different solutions that will bring you back on the way. Here are a few common automotive key problems and solutions:
Broken or bent keys
The most frequent reason an owner of a car cannot start their vehicle is a bent key. This can be easily fixed by simply straightening the key. It may appear simple, but you must be cautious. The key is very thin and could break if you bend it even slightly.
You'll need a sturdy work surface and a pair of pliers to do this. Take one end of the key using the pliers and bend it back until it is straight. It is best to do this on the floor or in a vice. You can then put it in the lock to see if it changes.
If not, you could need to get a new one created. This will prevent you from needing to contact a locksmith and will ensure your key will function.
Keep an extra key in your pocket so you're not left without the ability to get into your vehicle if yours breaks.
If you're having difficulty inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying some oil to it. This will allow it move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use a spray graphite or lubricant. If you're using a spray be sure to attach the plastic tubing that came with it for an easier application. This will also help prevent water from destroying your device.
Stuck pins and springs
Sometimes, a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring could become stuck. A pin is a small piece of steel that measures between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long with hollow ends. It is used to connect two components of a machine. In most cases you can take a nut off by pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench.
If you have a newer vehicle that is equipped with a key with a microchip in it, there is an opportunity that the key has to be programmed to work with your car. This process is different based on the model of car and the manufacturer.
Call us if you need assistance with your automotive keys or locks! We can repair, replace or program virtually any car key.
Selector for gears
If your car's gear selector gets stuck in park mode, it's important to get it checked by an expert mechanic immediately. This is a safety issue and could lead to serious vehicle damage if continue driving. This could also be a sign that your transmission system is having bigger problems, which are costly to repair.
Most times, this problem is easily fixable. The most common reason the gear selector may get stuck is that one of the cable ends has snapped, or separated from the lever itself. The mechanic can fix this in a few minutes.
In some cases the bushings of the gear selector could be damaged or worn. Rubber covers are positioned around the joints of the gear system in order to ensure that it is fluid. They work in a similar manner to cartilage in your knees, so it's crucial that they stay healthy and flexible.
It's not unusual for them to wear out in time, but there are some things you can do to extend their life. It is best to avoid the gear selection in very cold temperatures. This is because the cables that control the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, such as those made by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are a critical element of your gear selector and should not be overlooked. If you notice yours is damaged you must visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the right parts to fix the gear selection system. They can also offer many other services like maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn the ignition key and you hear nothing but a click then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through an natural process that causes them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will start to become coated with sulfate crystal deposits.
A dead battery could cause your car to lose power, which could result in the radio or electric window becoming unresponsive. If you've had difficulties starting your car in cold weather this could be a sign that you need an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes, the issue may not be due to a dead battery, but rather a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. Your mechanic should make sure that the serpentine belt, alternator and battery cables are working properly could solve this issue.
A key fob that's not functioning properly is a common 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 the accessory systems. The system may become confused or cease communicating with your car if it is exposed to extreme temperatures or is wet.
It is possible to reset the lost key fob by following the directions in the owner's guide. Based on the vehicle you have it may be necessary to open and close the doors, turn the lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or even open and shut the windows. If this doesn't fix your fob, it may need to be professionally programmed by an expert technician. remote key fob repair trying these simple techniques before buying an entirely new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder, which when inserted into ignition, transmits a signal. The signal informs the immobilizer in the car whether it is the right one to be used for starting. In the 1990s, car theft became a major issue. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system due to safety 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 go note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). You can find this number on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in the owner's manual.
Bring your working key to an AutoZone participating store. A representative will use a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key in order to precisely replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site using a precision cutting machine. If the key you have is a blade style, a key fob, or has a hefty black or grey head, it'll require programming to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.