Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all been there - the car key won't turn on the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient times, like when you're filling your trunk with groceries, or on your way to home from work.
There are many different solutions that will get you back on your way. Here are a few of the most common automotive key repair issues and solutions for them:
Broken or bent key
The most common reason the owner of a car is unable to begin their vehicle is a bent key. This can be easily repaired by simply bending the key. This might seem easy however, you need to be careful. The key is very thin and even bending it one degree can cause it to break.
To accomplish this, you'll need an area that is stable, as well as a pair of pliers. Take one end of the key using the pliers and bend it back 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 see if it changes.
If not, you may require a new key made. There is no need to call a lock-smith and your existing key will function.
Keep a spare key in your purse so you're not left without access to your vehicle in the event that your key breaks.
If you have trouble inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying some grease to it. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder and prevent it from becoming stuck. It is possible to use a spray lubricant or graphite powder. Use the plastic tube that comes with the spray to ensure an even more precise application. This will also help prevent water from destroying your important.
Pins that are snuck or springs
Sometimes, a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring could become stuck. Pins are small 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends used to connect 2 parts of machines. In the majority of cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.
If you own an older car that uses microchip keys it is possible that the key needs to be programmed to work with your car. This procedure can be easy or difficult depending on the car's model and manufacturer.
If you need assistance with your car keys or locks, give us a call! We can repair, replace or programme almost any vehicle key.
Gear selector
It's important to get your car to a mechanic as quickly 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. This could also indicate bigger problems with the transmission itself, which can be expensive to fix.
Fortunately, the majority of the time, this issue is easily fixable. The most frequent reason the gear selector can get stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped off or separated from the lever itself. This is a simple fix, and a mechanic should be able to fix it within a few minutes.
In some cases, however, the gear selector bushing can become damaged or worn out. These are rubber coverings that go around articulation points in the gear system to aid in making it move more smoothly. They perform the same function as cartilage in your knees so it's crucial to keep them healthy and flexible.
You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few simple things. You should avoid the gear selection during extremely cold weather. This is because the gear control cables tend to freeze and cracking. It is recommended to replace the bushings using premium quality ones, such as the ones from First Line.
These bushings are an important part of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you find that yours is worn out, it's a good idea to go to an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you to locate the right parts to restore the gear selector mechanism. They can also provide you with a range of other services, like maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn your key into the ignition and you hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through a natural process which causes them to die early. This is because the negative plates in your car battery will start to be coated with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery may also cause your car to lose electrical power, which could cause the radio to stop working or electric window malfunctioning. If your car is having issues beginning in cold weather, this is an indication that it's time for an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes your problem might not be due to a dead battery, but rather an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. This problem can be resolved by having your mechanic check that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all functioning properly.
Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is a key fob that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob is a tiny unit that connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and the accessory systems. The system may become confused or stop communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed extreme temperatures or is wet.
It is usually possible to reset a lost key fob by following the instructions provided in your owner's manual. Depending on your vehicle you may have to open and close the doors, turn lights and other electronic devices on and off, press a certain sequence of buttons, or even shut and open the windows. If this doesn't solve your fob, it could need to be professionally programmed by a special technician. However, it's still worthwhile to try these easy steps before you decide to pay for a new device.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder, which when it is inserted into the ignition, transmits an indication. The signal informs the immobilizer inside the car if the key is the right one for it to start. In the 1990s, car theft became a major problem. The majority of manufacturers have 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 through the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Write down Highly recommended Online site (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle before you leave. This number can be found on the dashboard, in the door jamb or in the owner's guide.
Bring your current working key with you to an participating AutoZone store and a representative will employ machines to trace the contours of your blank key to accurately duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site with a precise cutting machine. If your key is blade type or a key fob or has a thick grey or black head on it, it'll have to be programmed to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.