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 happens at the most inconvenient times, like when you're filling your car with groceries or on your way home from work.
Rather than panic There are many options to get you back on the road. Here are some common key issues with cars and solutions:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most frequent reason why car owners are unable to start their vehicle. It can be repaired by simply straightening the key. It may sound simple, but it is important to do it with care. The key is very thin, and bending it even one degree can cause it to break.
You will need a stable work surface as well as a pair of pliers for this. Grab the key at one end with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. This is best done on a flat surface or in a vise. You can then put it into the lock to see if it turns.
If not, it could be time to have a new key cut. This will prevent you from needing to call a locksmith and will ensure your key works.
It's a good idea to keep a spare in your pocket, so you don't end up without an entry point into your vehicle in the event of a lost key.
If you're having issues with a bent or broken key, you can try applying oil on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will allow it to move through the cylinder and will prevent it from getting stuck. It is possible to use a spray lubricant or graphite powder. Use the plastic tube that comes with the spray for the most precise application. This will also help prevent moisture from ruining your key.
Stuck pins and springs
Sometimes a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring can become 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 components of machines. In most instances, you can take out pins by simply pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench.
If you own an older car that uses a microchip key it is likely that the key will need to be programmed in order to work with your car. This process is different based on the model of car and the manufacturer.
Contact us for assistance with your automotive locks or keys! We can repair, replace or program almost any vehicle key.
Gear selector
It's important to get your car to a mechanic as soon as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a security issue and you could cause serious vehicle damage if continue driving. This issue is also a sign of bigger problems with the transmission that could be expensive to fix.
Most times this issue is easily fixable. Most of the time, the cable end that is attached to the lever may snap or come uncoupled. The mechanic can repair this in a few minutes.
In repair car key remote can become damaged or worn out. Rubber covers are positioned around the points of articulation of the gear system in order to make it more fluid. These covers function similar to the cartilage in your joints, and therefore must be healthy and flexible.
You can extend the life of your gear selector by doing a few easy things. First, you should avoid using the gear selector during extremely cold temperatures. The cables that control the gears can freeze and crack. It is recommended to replace the bushings with high quality ones, like those from First Line.
These bushings form an essential part of your gear selector and should not be overlooked. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a great idea to visit an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the right parts to restore the gear selection system. They also offer a variety of other services, including maintenance and repair of your transmission.
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 go through natural processes that cause them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will start to be covered with sulfate crystalline deposits.
A dead battery could cause your car to lose power, which could lead to the radio or electric window becoming unresponsive. If you've been having difficulty starting your car during cold weather, this could be a sign that you require a new 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 verify that the serpentine belt, alternator, and battery cables are working correctly can resolve this problem.
Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is a key fob that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob connects to the computer in your car and relays signals as well as commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system may be confused or stop communicating if it gets submerged or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
It is possible to reset the lost key fob following the instructions provided in the owner's manual. Depending on the type of vehicle it will require opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix your fob it may need to professionally programmed which will require the services of technicians. However, it's still worth trying these simple steps before you decide to shell out for a new device.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder chip built into them that transmits signals to a receiver within the ignition when they are inserted. The signal informs the immobilizer inside the car whether the key is the correct one to be used for starting. In the 1990s, car theft became a major problem. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system due to safety and insurance reasons.
If you have a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key may be through a dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Before you go there, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number can be found on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in an owner's guide.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member will make use of a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site by a cutting machine that is precise. If the key you have is a blade style, a key fob, or has a large black or grey head on it, it'll need to be programmed to your specific car before it can be used to start the engine.