Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all been there the car keys won't engage in the ignition. It could happen at the worst possible moment, for instance, when you are loading your trunk full of groceries or driving home from work.
Instead of panicking There are many solutions to get back on the road. Here are some of the most common automotive key problems and solutions:
Broken or bent key
A bent key is the most frequent reason why car owners are unable to start their vehicle. Straightening the key is an easy fix. It might sound easy however it is crucial to do this carefully. The key is extremely thin and can break if you bend it even a little.
To do this, you will need an area that is stable, as well as a pair of pliers. 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. You can then place it inside the lock to see if it changes.
If not, it may be time to get a new key cut. This will avoid needing to call a locksmith, and will ensure that your key works.
Keep an extra key in your pocket to ensure 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 broken or bent lock key, try applying some grease to it. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder and also prevent it from becoming stuck. Spray graphite powder or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray to get a more precise application. This will also help prevent moisture from damaging your important.
Spring pins and springs with pins
Sometimes, a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring may get stuck. Pins are a small 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 parts of machines. In most instances, it is possible to remove a pin by simply pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.
If you own an older vehicle that has a microchip key, it is possible that the key needs to be programmed to function with your car. This process can be simple or difficult depending on the car's model and manufacturer.
Call us if you need assistance with your automotive keys or locks! We are able to repair or replace every key for your vehicle.
Selector for gears
It is essential to take your vehicle to a mechanic as fast 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 continue to drive it. This could be a sign that the transmission is experiencing more serious issues, which can be costly to repair.
Most of the time this issue is easily fixable. Most often, the cable end that is connected to the lever may snap or come uncoupled. This is a straightforward fix and a mechanic will usually complete the task in a couple of minutes.
In some cases the bushings of the gear selector may be damaged or worn. Rubber covers are placed around the points of articulation of the gear system to make it more fluid. They function in a similar way to cartilage in your knees so it's crucial that they stay healthy and supple.
You can extend the life of your gear selector by doing a few simple things. First, you should avoid using the gear selector in extremely cold temperatures. The gear control cables could freeze and crack. key repairs should also replace your bushings, like ones made by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are an essential element of your gear selector, and should not be ignored. If you notice yours is worn out, you should visit an auto repair shop specializing in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the right parts to restore your gear selection device. They can also offer a variety of other services, including maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn the key in 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 undergo a natural process that causes them to end up dying early. This is because the negative plates of the battery of your car will begin to become coated with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery may also cause your car to lose power, which can cause the radio to stop working or electric window not working properly. If you have been having trouble starting your car in cold weather, it could be a sign that you require an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes, your issue might not be a dead battery, but an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. A mechanic's check to ensure that the serpentine belt, alternator, and battery cables are all working properly could solve this issue.
Key fobs that are not functioning properly is a common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob connects to the computer in your vehicle, and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. The system may become confused or cease communicating with your car when it is exposed harsh temperatures or gets wet.
It is usually possible to reset the lost key fob by following the directions in your owner's manual. Based on the vehicle you have, you may need to open and close the doors, turn lights and other electronic devices off and on by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or even shut and open the windows. If this doesn't fix your device, it could need to professionally programmed which requires the help of a technician. Try these easy techniques before buying the new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder chip built into them that sends an electronic signal to a receiver in the ignition when they are inserted. The signal informs an immobilizer that the key is right for the car to begin. In the 1990s, theft of vehicles became an issue that many manufacturers installed this transponder security system in their vehicles for safety and insurance purposes.
If you have a newer vehicle, the only option to change your keys is to visit the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Write down key fob repair (vehicle ID number) of your car before you go. This can be found on the front of the dashboard or door jamb in the owner's manual.
Bring your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key in order to accurately duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on-site by a cutting machine that is precise. If your key is equipped with a blade, a fob or a large grey/black head, it will need to be programmed for your vehicle before you can use it to start the motor.