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 in the ignition. It could occur at the most inconvenient time, such as when you're filling your car with groceries or returning home from work.
Rather than panic instead, there are a variety of options to get you back on the road. Here are some of the most common key issues with cars and their solutions:
Broken or bent keys
The most common reason an owner of a car cannot start their vehicle is a bent key. This can be fixed by simply straightening the key. It might sound easy but it's important to do it with care. The key is thin and may break if you bend it even a little.
You will need a stable work surface and a pair pliers to accomplish this. Pick up one end of the key using the pliers and bend it back until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on an even surface or in a vice. Then, you can put it inside the lock to see whether it turns.
If not, you might need to get a new one created. This will save you from needing to call a locksmith and can ensure that your key will function.
It's a good idea keep a spare key in your pocket so that you don't find yourself without access to your vehicle in the event of a lost key.
If you are experiencing issues with a broken or bent key, try putting some lubrication on it before trying to insert it into the lock. This will enable it to move easier through the cylinder, and also prevent it from getting stuck. Spray lubricant or graphite powder. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray for the most precise application. This will also help keep moisture from damaging your key.
Spring pins and springs with pins
Sometimes a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring could get stuck. Pins are small 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends, which are used to connect two parts of an equipment. In most instances, you can take out pins by 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 in it, there's a chance the key needs to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This can be a simple or complicated depending on the car's manufacturer and model.
If you require assistance with your automotive keys or locks give us a call! We can repair or replace every key for your vehicle.
Gear Selector
It's crucial to take your car to a mechanic as soon as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. 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 is experiencing more serious issues, which can be costly to fix.
Most of the time the issue is fixable. The most common reason that the gear selector may be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped off or become uncoupled from the lever itself. This is a straightforward fix and a mechanic should be able to complete the task within a few minutes.
In certain instances, the bushing of the gear selector could be damaged or worn. The rubber covers are put around the articulation points of the gear system to keep it fluid. They work in a similar manner to cartilage in your knees so it's important that they stay in good shape and soft.
You can extend the life of your gear selector by doing a few basic things. You should first avoid using the gear selection in extremely cold temperatures. The cables for controlling the gear could freeze and crack. You should also replace the bushings with premium quality ones, such as the ones from First Line.
These bushings are an essential part of your selection of gears and shouldn't be overlooked. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a great idea to go to an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the perfect parts to restore your gear selector device. They can also provide many other services, such as transmission service and maintenance.
Dead battery
If you switch the key in the ignition and you hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through natural processes that cause them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be coated with sulfate crystal deposits.
A dead battery can cause your car to lose power, which can lead to the radio or electric window malfunctioning. If you have been having difficulty starting your car during cold weather, it could be a sign you need an upgrade to your battery.
It's possible that the problem is not an issue with your battery, but rather a malfunction in the charging system. This issue can be fixed by having your mechanic verify that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are all functioning properly.
A key fob that is not working properly is another common automotive key repair. mobile car key repair is a small unit that connects to the computer in the vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and accessory systems. This system may be confused or cease communicating if it gets submerged or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
It is possible to reset a lost key fob by following the steps in your owner's manual. Depending on the vehicle, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your fob, it could need to be professionally programmed and will require an expert. It's worth trying these simple techniques before purchasing an entirely new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder which, when inserted into the ignition, transmits an indication. This signal tells the immobilizer inside the car if it is the right one to allow it to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major problem. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system due to security and insurance reasons.
If you have a brand newer vehicle, the only way to replace your key may be through the dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. 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 guide.
Bring your current key along to an participating AutoZone store and an associate will utilize an instrument to trace the contours of your blank key to accurately duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site using a precision cutting machine. If your key is equipped with a blade, a fob, or a thick grey or black head, it will need to be programmed for your vehicle before you can start the motor.