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 on the ignition. It could occur at the most inconvenient moment, for instance, when you're filling your trunk full of groceries or returning home from work.
There are a variety of solutions that will get you back on your way. Here are a few of the most common car key repair issues and possible solutions:
Broken or bent key
The most frequent reason a car owner cannot start their vehicle is a bent key. This can be repaired by simply straightening the key. It may appear simple however, you need to be careful. The key is extremely thin and bending it just small enough could cause it to break.
To accomplish this, you'll need an area that is stable, as well as a pair of pliers. Hold the key at the other end using 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 inside the lock to determine whether it turns.
If not, you might need to get a new one created. This will prevent you from having to call a locksmith, and can ensure that your key will work.
Keep an extra key in your purse so you're not left without the ability to get into your vehicle in the event that your key breaks.
If you have trouble inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying some grease to it. 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 you attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure more precise application. This will also help keep moisture from damaging your key.
Pins that are snuck or springs
Sometimes, a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring can become stuck. Pins are a tiny piece of metal that is between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long, with hollow ends. It is used to connect two pieces of machines. In the majority of instances, it is possible to remove a pin by simply pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.
If you have a newer vehicle that is equipped with a key with a microchip in it, there's an opportunity for the key to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This process is different based on the car and manufacturer.
Contact us if you require assistance with your vehicle locks or keys! We are able to repair or replace every key for your vehicle.
Gear selector
It's important to get your vehicle to a mechanic as quickly as you can when the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety concern, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This problem could also indicate more serious issues in the transmission system itself, which could be costly to repair.
Most times the issue is fixable. Most often, the cable end that is attached to the lever can snap or become disconnected. The mechanic can fix this issue in a matter of minutes.
In certain instances there are instances where the gear selector bushing can get damaged or worn out. These are rubber coverings that cover articulation points in the gear system, allowing it move more smoothly. These covers work similarly to cartilage joints, so they need to 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 cables controlling the gear tend to freeze and cracking. You should also replace the bushings with premium quality ones, like those from First Line.
These bushings are an important component of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you notice that yours is worn out, you should visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. They can assist you to locate the right parts to fix your gear selector device. They can also offer various other services, including maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn on your key in the ignition and hear nothing except a click, your battery is dead. The average battery lasts between three and five years and as they get older, they go through natural processes that cause them to die prematurely. This is because the negative plates inside your car battery will start to be coated with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery may cause the loss of electrical power within your vehicle which can cause the radio or electric windows to fail. If you've had difficulty starting your car during cold weather this could be a sign you need a new battery.
It's possible that the issue is not due to an unresponsive battery but a malfunction in the charging system. This issue can be solved by having your mechanic verify that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all functioning correctly.
remote key fob repair that are not functioning properly is a common automotive key repair. The key fob is connected to the computer in your vehicle and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system can get confused or cease communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed extreme temperatures or is wet.
It is possible to reset a lost key fob by following the instructions provided in the owner's guide. Based on the model it will require opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If this does not fix your fob it may need to professionally programmed that will require the assistance of a technician. Try these easy methods before you buy the new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys have a transponder chip embedded in them. It transmits a signal to a receiver in the ignition when they are inserted. This signal tells the immobilizer inside the car whether it is the right one to be used for starting. In the 1990s, theft of cars became such a problem that most manufacturers installed this transponder security device in their vehicles for security and insurance purposes.
If you own a newer vehicle, the only way to change your keys is to visit the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car before you go. It is located on the front of the dashboard or door jamb in your owner's manual.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. A representative will make use of a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key in order to precisely replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using an exact cutting machine on site. If your key is equipped with an edge, 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.