Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all been there: your car keys won't engage the ignition. It can occur at the most inconvenient time, such as when you are loading your trunk full of groceries or driving home from work.
Rather than panic, there are several different options to get you back on the road. Here are a few common automotive key repair issues and their possible solutions:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most frequent reason why car owners are unable to start their car. This can be repaired by simply straightening the key. It might sound easy however it is crucial to do it carefully. The key is extremely thin and may break if you bend it even slightly.
You'll need a solid work surface as well as a pair of pliers to do this. Take one end of the key using the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on the floor or in a vice. After that, you can place it in the lock to test whether it turns.
If not, it might be time to have a new key cut. You don't need to call a locksmith and your existing key will work.
It's a good idea keep a spare key in your pocket, so you don't have an entry point into your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.
If you are having trouble inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying grease to it. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder and will prevent it from getting stuck. You can apply graphite or spray lubricant. Use the plastic tube that comes with the spray to get an even more precise application. This will also help keep moisture from damaging your key.
Pins that are snuck or springs
A pin (also known as a roll pin or spring) can sometimes become stuck. A pin is a small 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends, which are used to connect 2 parts of machines. In most cases you can remove a nut by pulling it off using your fingers or the wrench.
If you own an older car that uses a microchip key, it is possible that the key will need to be programmed to work with your car. This can be a simple or complicated depending on the manufacturer and car.
If you need assistance with your car keys or locks give us a call! We can repair, replace or programme nearly any key for your vehicle.
Gear Selector
It's important to get your car to a mechanic as quickly as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a security issue and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. It could also be a sign that your transmission system is experiencing bigger issues, which can be costly to repair.
Fortunately, the majority times, this issue can be fixed easily. The cable that is connected to the lever can snap or break off. This is a straightforward fix and a mechanic will usually complete the task within a few minutes.
In some cases the bushing of the gear selector might be damaged or worn. Rubber covers are positioned around the articulation points of the gear system in order to ensure that it is fluid. They perform the same function to cartilage in your knees therefore it is important to ensure that they stay healthy and supple.
You can extend the life of your gear selector by doing a few easy things. You should first avoid using the gear selection during extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables controlling the gear are prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace the bushings with premium quality ones, like those from First Line.
These bushings are an important part of your gear selector and shouldn't be overlooked. If you find that yours is worn out you must visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the right parts to restore your gear selection device. They can also offer various other services, like maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you switch the key in the ignition but hear only a click, then your battery is dead. Most batteries last between three and five years and as they age, they go through an natural process that causes them to die early. This is due to the negative plates of your car battery will start to become coated with crystals of sulfate.
A dead battery could cause the loss of electrical power within your vehicle which can cause the radio or electric windows to stop working. If your car has been having problems beginning in cold weather, this is an indication that it is time for a new battery.
Sometimes your problem might not be due to a dead battery, but a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. This problem can be resolved by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables all work properly.
key repair car that is not working properly is another common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob is connected to the computer in your car, and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. The system could be confused or cease communicating if it is wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.
Follow the steps in your owner's guide to reset the keyfob that was lost. Depending on your vehicle you may have to open and close the doors, switch lights and other electronic devices off and on and press a particular sequence of buttons, or even open and shut the windows. If this doesn't fix your fob, it might require professional programming by an expert. It's worthwhile to try these easy steps before you decide to shell out for a new device.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder which, when inserted into the ignition, sends out an indication. The signal informs the immobilizer in the car whether the key is the correct one for it to start. In key repair near me , car theft was an issue. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system to ensure security and insurance reasons.
If you own a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key may be through the dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Before you visit, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). It is located on the dashboard's front or door jamb in your owner's manual.
Bring your 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 precisely replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site by a cutting machine that is precise. If the key you are using has a blade, a fob or a thick grey or black head it must be programmed for your car before you can use it to start the motor.