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 engage the ignition. It could happen at the worst possible time, such as when you're filling your trunk full of groceries or driving home from work.
Instead of panicking, there are several different options to get you back on the road. Here are a few common key issues with cars and solutions:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most common reason why car owners are unable to start their car. This can be easily repaired by simply straightening the key. It might sound easy however it is crucial to do it with care. The key is very thin and even bending it small enough could cause it to break.
To accomplish this, you'll need a stable workspace, and an plier. Grab 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. After that, you can place it in the lock to test if it will turn.
If not, you could need to get a new one created. There is no need to call a lock-smith and your key will function.
Keep a spare key in your purse so you're not left without access to your vehicle in the event that your key breaks.
If you're experiencing problems with a bent or broken key, try applying some lubrication on it before inserting it into the lock. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder, and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can apply graphite or spray lubricant. If using a spray, ensure that you attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure a more precise application. This will also help prevent moisture from ruining your key.
Stuck pins or springs
Sometimes, a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring may become stuck. Pins are a tiny 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends that are used to connect 2 parts of an equipment. In most cases you can take a nut off by pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.
If you own a newer car that has a key with a microchip in it, there's a chance the key needs to be programmed to work with your car. This procedure can differ based on the car and manufacturer.
If you need assistance 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, it's crucial to bring it to a mechanic right away. This is a safety issue and could result in serious vehicle damage if continue driving. It could also be a sign that the transmission system is experiencing bigger issues, which can be costly to repair.
Most times the issue is fixable. The most common reason the gear selector can get stuck is that one of the cable ends has snapped, or become uncoupled from the lever itself. The mechanic can fix this within a couple of minutes.
In some instances, the bushings on the gear selector might be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that cover joints within the gear system to aid in making it move more easily. These covers work similarly to cartilage joints, so they must be healthy and flexible.
You can extend their life by doing a few basic things. You should first avoid using the gear selection during extremely cold weather. The gear control cables could freeze and crack. You should also replace the bushings with high quality ones, like the ones from First Line.
These bushings are an essential component of your selection of gears and shouldn't be ignored. If you find that yours is damaged you must visit an auto repair shop specializing in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help you locate the right parts to repair your gear selector device. They can also provide a range of other services, including maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you switch the key in the ignition and hear only a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo natural processes that cause them to die prematurely. This is because the negative plates in the battery of your car will begin to be coated with crystals of sulfate.
A dead battery could cause the loss of the electrical power in your vehicle and cause the radio or electric windows to fail. If your car has been having problems beginning in cold weather, this is a good sign that it's time for an upgrade to your battery.
It's possible that the issue is not caused by an issue with your battery, but rather a malfunction in the charging system. This issue can be solved by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are working correctly.
Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is a key fob that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob connects to the computer repair car key near me in your vehicle and relays signals as well as commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system may be confused or cease communicating if it gets submerged or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
Follow the steps in your owner's guide to reset the lost keyfob. Based on the vehicle you have it may be necessary to open and close the doors, turn lights and other electronic devices off and on, press a certain sequence of buttons, or even open and shut the windows. If this doesn't solve your fob it may require professional programming which requires the help of a technician. It's worth trying these simple techniques before buying the new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder which when it is inserted into the ignition, transmits an indication. The signal is sent to an immobilizer to determine whether the key is in the right place for the car to begin. In the 1990s theft of cars became such a problem that most manufacturers put this transponder security system in their vehicles for security and insurance purposes.
If you have a brand newer vehicle, the only way to replace your key may be at the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Before you visit, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number can be found on the dashboard, the door jamb, or in the owner's guide.
Bring your current key along to an AutoZone store and a representative will use a machine to trace the contours of your blank key to accurately duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on the spot using a precision cutting machine. If the key you are using has a blade, a fob, or a thick grey or black head, it will need to be programmed for your car before you can use it to start the motor.