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 could occur at the worst time, such as when you are loading your car with groceries or driving home from work.
Instead of key car repair , there are a variety of solutions to get you back on the road. Here are some of the most common key issues with cars and solutions:
Broken or bent key
The most frequent reason a car owner cannot start their vehicle is a bent key. This can be easily repaired by simply straightening the key. This might seem easy, but you must be cautious. The key is very thin, and bending it even one degree can cause it to break.
You'll need a sturdy work surface and a pair of pliers to do this. Pick up one end of the key using the pliers, and then bend it back until it is straight. This should be done on a flat surface, or in a vise. Then, you can place it inside the lock to see if it will turn.
If not, you could need to get a new one made. There is no need to call a locksmith and your key will still work.
It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your pocket so that you don't find yourself without a way into your vehicle in the event of a lost key.
If you're having issues with a broken or bent key, try putting some oil on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will help it move more easily through the cylinder and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite as a spray lubricant. If you are using a spray, be sure to attach the plastic tubing included with it for a more precise application. This will also help to stop moisture from ruining your key.
Spring pins and springs that are stuck
A pin (also known as a roll pin or a spring) can sometimes become stuck. Pins are a tiny 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends that are used to connect two components of a machine. In most cases, you can remove pins by simply pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench.
If you own a brand new car that has keys with microchips in it, there's a chance the key needs to be programmed to work with your car. This procedure can be easy or complex depending on the manufacturer and car.
Contact us for assistance with your car locks or keys! We are able to repair or replace every vehicle key.
Gear Selector
If your car's gear selector gets stuck in park mode, it's important to bring it to a mechanic right away. This is a security issue and you could cause serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. This issue can also be a sign of more serious issues with the transmission system itself, which can be expensive to fix.
Fortunately, the majority times, this issue can be fixed easily. The most frequent reason the gear selector can be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped off or become uncoupled from the lever itself. This is a simple fix and a mechanic should be able to complete the task within a few minutes.
In certain instances, the bushings of the gear selector might be damaged or worn. The rubber covers are put around the articulation points of the gear system to ensure that it is fluid. They work in a similar manner as cartilage in your knees so it's important that they stay healthy and supple.
You can extend the life of your gear selector by doing a few simple things. The first is to avoid using the gear selector during extremely cold weather. The cables that control the gears can freeze and break. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, for instance those made by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are an important part of your gear selector, and shouldn't be overlooked. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to visit an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They will help you locate the ideal parts to restore the gear selector mechanism. They can also offer various other services, like transmission service and maintenance.
Dead battery
If you switch the ignition on but hear only a click, then your battery is dead. The average battery lasts between three and five years and as they age, they go through an natural process that causes them to end up dying early. The negative plates of your car battery will start to become coated with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery can also cause you to lose electrical power within your vehicle and cause the radio or the electric windows to malfunction. If your car is having issues starting in cold weather, this is a good sign that it's time to get a new battery.
Sometimes your problem might not be a dead battery, but an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. Having your mechanic check to make sure 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 automotive key repair. The key fob is a tiny device that connects to your computer in the vehicle and relays commands and signals 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 steps in the owner's manual to reset a lost keyfob. Based on the model, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronics on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your fob, it could require professional programming and will require a special technician. But it's still worth trying these simple steps before deciding to pay for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder which, when inserted into the ignition, sends out a signal. The signal is sent to an immobilizer to determine if the key is correct for the car to begin. In the 1990s, car theft became a major problem. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system to ensure security and insurance reasons.
If you have a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your keys could be at the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Before you go note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the dashboard's front or door jamb in the owner's manual.
Bring your current 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 on site. If your key is equipped with an edge, a fob or a thick grey/black head it will need to be programmed for your vehicle before you can start the motor.