Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all been there the car keys won't turn in the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, like when you're filling your trunk with groceries or on your way home from work.
There are many different solutions to get you back on your way. Here are a few common automotive key repair issues and solutions for them:
Broken or bent keys
The most frequent reason the owner of a car is unable to start their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is an easy fix. This may sound simple but it's important to do it with care. The key is extremely thin and even bending it one degree can cause it to break.
You'll need a sturdy work surface and a pair pliers to accomplish this. Hold the key at the other end using the pliers, and bend it until it is straight. This should be done on a flat surface, or in a vise. You can then put it inside the lock to see if it changes.
If not, you may need to get a new key made. You will not have to contact a locksmith and your existing key will function.
It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your pocket, so that you don't have access to your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.
If you are experiencing issues with a bent or broken key, try putting some oil on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will help it move more easily through the cylinder, and also prevent it from getting stuck. You can use graphite as a spray lubricant. If you're using a spray ensure you attach the plastic tubing that came with it for an easier application. This will also prevent water from destroying your device.
Spring pins and springs with pins
Sometimes, a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring can get stuck. Pins are a small piece of metal that measures between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long, with hollow ends. electronic key repair near me is used to connect two parts of a machine. In most cases, you can remove pins by pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.
If you have a newer vehicle that is equipped with an electronic key with a microchip inside, there is an opportunity that the key has to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This procedure can be easy or complicated depending on the car's manufacturer and model.
Contact us if you require 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 fast as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety issue and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This issue could also indicate bigger problems in the transmission system that could be costly to repair.
Fortunately, the majority times, this issue can be easily fixed. The cable end that is connected to the lever can snap or come uncoupled. The mechanic can repair this within a couple of minutes.
In some instances, the bushings on the gear selector might be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that go around joints within the gear system, allowing it move more smoothly. They function in a similar way as cartilage in your knees therefore it is important to ensure to keep them healthy and supple.
You can extend the life of your gear selector by doing a few easy things. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector in extremely cold weather. The gear control cables can freeze and break. You should also replace your bushings, such as the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are an important part of your gear selector and shouldn't be overlooked. 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 will help you find the right parts to fix the gear selection system. They can also offer many other services such as transmission maintenance and service.
Dead battery
If you turn your key in the ignition and hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through a natural process which causes them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will start to be coated with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery may also cause your vehicle to lose electrical power, which can cause the radio to stop working or electric window not working properly. If you've had difficulties starting your car in cold weather, this could be a sign that you need an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes, your issue might not be caused by a dead battery, but rather a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. This issue can be fixed by having your mechanic verify that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all functioning correctly.
Key fobs that are not working properly is another common automotive key repair. The key fob is a small device that connects to your vehicle's computer and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system could become confused or cease communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed to extreme temperatures or is wet.
It is usually possible to reset the lost key fob following the steps in the owner's guide. Depending on the type of vehicle it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronics on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't work for your fob, it could require professional programming, which will require an expert. Try these easy methods before you buy an entirely new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder that, when inserted into the ignition, transmits an indication. The signal informs the immobilizer inside the car if it is the right one for it to start. In the 1990s theft of cars became such a problem that most manufacturers put this transponder security system in their vehicles for safety and insurance purposes.
If you have a brand newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key could be through the dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Before you go there make a note of the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). It is located on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in your owner's manual.
Bring your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will use a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using an exact cutting machine on site. If your key is equipped with blade, fob or a thick grey or black head, it will need to be programmed for your vehicle before you can start the motor.