Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all been there: your car key refuses to turn on the ignition. It can occur at the worst moment, for instance, when you are loading your car with groceries or heading home from work.
Rather than panic There are many solutions to get back on the road. Here are a few common automotive key repair issues and solutions for them:
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. This may seem simple, but you must be careful. The key is extremely thin and bending it just one degree can cause it to break.
To accomplish this, you will need an area with a solid foundation, as well as pliers. Hold the key at one end with the pliers, and bend it until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface or in a vise. Then, you can put it inside the lock to test if it will turn.
If not, it might be time to have a new key cut. This will save you from having to contact a locksmith and will 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 are experiencing issues with a broken or bent key, try applying some lubrication on it before trying to insert it into the lock. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder and will prevent it from getting stuck. Spray lubricant or graphite powder. If using a spray, be sure to attach the plastic tubing included with it for an easier application. This will also help stop moisture from ruining your key.
Spring pins and springs that are stuck
Sometimes a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring may become stuck. A pin is a small 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 components of an equipment. In the majority of cases, you can remove pins by simply pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.
If you own a brand new car that has keys with microchips inside, there is an opportunity that the key has to be programmed in order to work with your car. This can be a simple or complicated depending on the car's manufacturer and model.
If you need help 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 vehicle to a mechanic as quickly as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety issue, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. It could also be a sign that the transmission system is experiencing bigger problems that are expensive to repair.
key fob repair near me of the time, this problem is easily fixable. Most of the time, the cable end that is attached to the lever could snap or become disconnected. The mechanic can fix this issue in a matter of minutes.
In some cases the bushing of the gear selector could be damaged or worn. Rubber covers are positioned around the points of articulation of the gear system to ensure that it is fluid. They function in a similar way to cartilage in your knees, so it's important that they remain healthy and supple.
You can extend the life of your gear selector by doing a few easy things. You should first avoid using the gear selection in extremely cold weather. The cables for controlling the gear can freeze and crack. It is recommended to replace the bushings with premium quality ones, such as those from First Line.
These bushings form an essential component of your selection of gears and shouldn't be overlooked. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to visit an auto repair shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the right parts to restore your gear selection device. They also offer a variety of other services, including maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn your key into the ignition and hear nothing other than a click, your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo natural processes that cause them to die early. This is because the negative plates of your car battery will start to become coated with crystals of sulfate.
A dead battery could cause your vehicle to lose power, which could lead to the radio or electric window becoming unresponsive. If you've had difficulty starting your car during cold weather this could be a sign that you need an upgrade to your battery.
It is possible that your issue is not due to an unresponsive battery but an issue with the charging system. Having your mechanic check to make sure that the serpentine belt, alternator and battery cables are functioning properly can solve this problem.
Another common automotive key repair is an ignition key that has stopped working properly. The key fob connects to the computer in your car and relays signals as well as commands between the engine and the accessory systems. This system can get confused or stop communicating with your car when it is exposed extreme temperatures or gets wet.
You can usually reset the lost key fob following the steps in your owner's manual. Depending on your vehicle you may have to open and close the doors, turn the lights and other electronic devices on and off and press a particular sequence of buttons, or shut and open the windows. If this doesn't solve your fob, it may require professional programming, which will require an expert. Try these easy methods before you buy the new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys include a transponder chip embedded in them. It transmits an electronic signal to a receiver within the ignition when it is inserted. This signal informs the immobilizer inside the car whether the key is the correct one to allow it to start. In the 1990s, car theft was an issue. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system for safety and insurance reasons.
If you have a brand newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key may be at the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Before you go there note 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 existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. A representative will make use of a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using a precise cutting machine onsite. If your key is a blade type or key fob or has a hefty grey or black head on it, it'll need to be programmed to your specific car before it can be used to start the engine.