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 turn in the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, like when you're loading your trunk with groceries, or on your way to home from work.
There are a variety of solutions that can bring you back on the way. Here are a few common key issues with cars and solutions:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most frequent reason why car owners are unable to start their vehicle. Straightening the key is a simple fix. It may appear simple, but you must be careful. The key is very thin and bending it just small enough could cause it to break.
To do this, you will need an area that is stable, as well as an plier. Take the key at one end with the pliers, and bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on a flat surface or in a vice. You can then put it inside the lock to see if it turns.
If not, it may be time to have a new key cut. This will avoid needing to contact a locksmith and will ensure that your key will function.
Keep a spare key in your pocket so you don't have the ability to get into your vehicle if it is damaged.
If you're having issues with a bent or broken key, try putting some oil on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will allow it to move easier through the cylinder and stop it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. Use the plastic tube that comes with the spray to get a more precise application. This will also help to stop moisture from ruining your key.
Stuck pins or springs
A pin (also called a roll pin, or a spring) can get stuck. Pins are small 2 to 3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends, which are used to connect two parts of machines. In the majority of cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it out using your fingers or the wrench.
If you own a newer car that has a key with a microchip in it, there is an opportunity that the key has to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This process can be simple or complicated depending on the car's manufacturer and model.
If you need help with your car keys or locks, give us a call! We can repair, replace or program almost any vehicle key.
Gear Selector
If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, it's important to take it to a mechanic right away. It's a security issue and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This could also be a sign that the transmission system is experiencing bigger issues, which can be costly to fix.
Fortunately, the majority of the time this problem can be easily fixed. Most of the time, the cable that is connected to the lever can snap or break off. car key fob repairs near me can repair this issue in a matter of minutes.
In certain instances there are instances where the gear selector bushing can be damaged or worn out. Rubber covers are placed around the points of articulation of the gear system in order to make it more fluid. They function in a similar way to cartilage in your knees therefore it is important to ensure that they stay healthy and supple.
You can extend their life by doing a few easy things. It is best to avoid the gear selection in extremely cold weather. The gear control cables can freeze and break. You should also replace the bushings using premium quality ones, such as those from First Line.
These bushings are an essential component of your gear selector, and should not be ignored. If you find that yours is worn out, you should visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you in finding the right parts to fix the gear selection system. They also provide many other services, including maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn the ignition key but hear nothing but a click then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo an natural process that causes them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to become coated with sulfate crystal deposits.
A dead battery can also cause the loss of the electrical power in your vehicle, causing the radio or electric windows to fail. If your car has been experiencing problems getting started in cold weather, this could be an indication that it is time for an upgrade to your battery.
It is possible that your issue is not caused by a dead battery but 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 all functioning properly.
A key fob that's not functioning properly is another common automotive key repair. The key fob is a small device that connects to the vehicle's computer and relays commands and signals between the engine and accessory systems. The system could become confused or cease communicating with your car if it is exposed to extreme temperatures or is wet.
It is usually possible to reset the lost key fob by following the steps in the owner's guide. Depending on the model of your car you may have to open and close the doors, turn the lights and other electronic devices off and on and press a particular sequence of buttons, or even open and shut the windows. If this doesn't solve your fob, it may need to be professionally programmed and will require a special technician. It's worth trying these simple techniques before purchasing an entirely new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys include a transponder chip built into them that transmits signals to a receiver in the ignition when it is inserted. The signal is sent to an immobilizer to determine if the key is correct to allow the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major issue. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system for security and insurance reasons.
If you own a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key may be at the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car before you go. This number is usually found on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in the owner's manual.
Bring your current working key along to an AutoZone store, and an associate will utilize an instrument to trace the contours of your blank key to precisely replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using an exact cutting machine in-store. If your key is equipped with a blade, a fob, or a thick grey/black head, it will need to be programmed for your car before you can start the motor.