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 engage the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, like when you're filling up your car with groceries or returning to home from work.
There are many solutions that will bring you back on the way. Here are a few common automotive key repair issues and their possible solutions:
Broken or bent key
The most common reason a car owner cannot begin their vehicle is a bent key. This can be easily repaired by simply bending the key. It may appear simple however, you need to be careful. The key is very thin and bending it just small enough could cause it to break.
To do this, you'll need a stable workspace, and pliers. Take one end of the key using the pliers and bend it back until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on a flat surface or in a vice. After that, you can place it in the lock to determine whether it turns.
If not, you might require a new key made. You don't need to call a lock-smith and your existing key will function.
It's a good idea keep a spare in your pocket so that you don't end up without an entry point into your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.
If you're experiencing problems with a bent or broken key, try putting some lubrication on it before trying to insert it into the lock. This will allow it to move through the cylinder, and will prevent it from getting stuck. You can apply graphite or spray lubricant. If you are using a spray, ensure that you attach the plastic tubing that came with it for an easier application. This will also stop water from destroying your device.
Spring pins and springs with pins
Sometimes, a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring could become stuck. A pin is a small 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends used to connect two components of a machine. In the majority of cases, you can remove a nut by pulling it off using your fingers or the wrench.
If you have an older car that uses microchip keys, it is possible that the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your car. This process can vary depending on the model of car and the manufacturer.
If you need help with your keys for your vehicle or locks give us a call! We can repair, replace or program almost every vehicle key.
Gear selector
If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, you need to take it to a mechanic right away. This is a security issue and you could cause serious vehicle damage if continue driving. It could also be a sign that your transmission is experiencing more serious issues, which can be costly to repair.
Most times, this problem is easily fixable. The cable that is connected to the lever can snap or come uncoupled. The mechanic can fix this within a couple of minutes.
In some instances the gear selector bushing may become damaged or worn out. Rubber covers are placed around the joints of the gear system in order to ensure that it is fluid. These rubber covers function similarly to the cartilage in your joints, which is why they need to be healthy and flexible.
You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few easy things. You should first avoid using the gear selection during extremely cold weather. This is because the gear control cables are often prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace the bushings with high quality ones, like the ones from First Line.
These bushings form an essential element of your selection of gears and shouldn't be ignored. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to visit an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you in finding the correct parts to repair your gear selection device. They also provide many other services such as transmission maintenance and service.
Dead battery
If you switch the key in the ignition and hear nothing but a click then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo an natural process that causes them to die early. This is due to the negative plates inside the battery in your car begin to be coated with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery may cause the loss of the electrical power in your vehicle which can cause the radio or the electric windows to fail. If you've had trouble starting your car in cold weather, this could be a sign you need a new battery.
It's possible that the issue is not due to a dead battery but a malfunction in the charging system. A mechanic's check to ensure that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all functioning properly can solve this issue.
A key fob that is not functioning properly is another common issue with automotive keys. The key fob is a tiny device that connects to the vehicle's computer and relays commands and signals between the engine and the accessory systems. The system could be confused or cease communicating if it gets wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.
Follow the steps in your owner's guide to reset the keyfob that was lost. Based on the model it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronics on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your fob, it may require professional programming and will require a special technician. 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, sends out the signal. The signal informs the immobilizer in the car if it is the right one to allow it to start. In the 1990s, theft of vehicles became such a problem that most manufacturers put this transponder security system into their vehicles for security and insurance purposes.
If you have a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your keys could be through a dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Before you visit make a note of the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in the owner's manual.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. A representative will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely replicate the original key. broken car key repair near me will then cut the new key using a precise cutting machine onsite. If your key is blade type, a key fob, or has a large grey or black head, it will need to be programmed to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.