Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all experienced this the car keys won't turn in the ignition. It could occur at the worst time, such as when you're filling your car with groceries or driving home from work.
Instead of panicking instead, there are a variety of solutions to get you back on the road. Here are some common automotive key problems and solutions:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most frequent reason why car owners are unable to start their vehicle. This can be repaired by simply bending the key. This may sound simple, but it is important to do this carefully. The key is very thin and even bending it a little can cause it to break.
You'll need a sturdy work surface and a pair pliers to accomplish this. Take the key on one end with the pliers, and bend it 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 could require a new key made. This will prevent you from having to contact a locksmith and will ensure that your key will function.
Keep an extra key in your pocket so you don't have access to your vehicle in the event that your key breaks.
If you're having difficulty inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying some oil 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. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray for an even more precise application. This will also help to keep moisture from damaging your key.
Stuck pins or springs
A pin (also called a roll pin, or a spring) can become stuck. Pins are a tiny 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 an equipment. In most cases you can remove a nut by pulling it out using your fingers or the wrench.
If you own an older vehicle that has microchip keys, it is possible that the key needs to be programmed to function with your car. This process is different based on the model of car and the manufacturer.
If you require assistance with your keys for your vehicle or locks, give us a call! 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 fast as possible 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. It could also be a sign that the transmission is experiencing more serious problems that are expensive to fix.
Luckily, most times, this issue can be easily fixed. Most often, the cable that is connected to the lever may snap or come uncoupled. This is a simple fix, and the mechanic can usually complete the task in a couple of minutes.
In some cases the bushings on the gear selector might be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that cover articulation points in the gear system to aid in making it move more smoothly. They work in a similar manner to cartilage in your knees therefore it is important to ensure that they stay healthy and flexible.
It's not uncommon for them to degrade in time, but there are some things you can do to extend their life. The first is to avoid using the gear selector during extremely cold weather. This is because the cables controlling the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace the bushings using premium quality ones, like the ones from First Line.
These bushings are a critical component of your gear selector and should not be overlooked. If you notice that yours is worn out, you should visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the right parts to fix your gear selection apparatus. They can also provide a range of other services, including maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn your key into the ignition and hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. Most batteries last between three and five years and as they get older, they go through a natural process that causes them to die prematurely. This is due to the negative plates of your car battery will start to become coated with crystals of sulfate.
mobile key repair near me could cause your vehicle to lose power, which can cause the radio to stop working or electric window not working properly. If your car is having issues beginning in cold weather, this could be a good sign that it is time for an upgrade to your battery.
It is possible that your problem is not an unresponsive battery but an issue with the charging system. A mechanic's check to ensure that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are all working correctly can resolve this problem.
A key fob that's not working properly is another common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob connects to the computer in your car, and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system can become confused or stop communicating if it gets wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
Follow the instructions in the owner's guide to reset the lost keyfob. Based on the model it will require opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronics on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't work for your fob, it might need to be professionally programmed, which will require an expert technician. However, it's still worth trying these simple steps before you decide to shell out for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys include a transponder chip embedded in them that sends an electronic signal to a receiver in the ignition when it is inserted. This signal tells an immobilizer if the key is correct to allow the car to start. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became an issue that many manufacturers put this transponder security system into their vehicles for security and insurance purposes.
If you own a brand new vehicle, the only way to replace your keys is at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car prior to you leave. This can be found on the dashboard's front or door jamb in your owner's manual.
Bring your working key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will use a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with an exact cutting machine in-store. If your key has blade, fob or a large head that is grey or black, it will need to be programmed for your car before you can start the motor.