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 turn on the ignition. It can occur at the worst time, such as when you're loading your trunk full of groceries or returning home from work.
There are a variety of solutions that can get you back on your way. Here are some common automotive key problems and solutions:
Broken or bent key
The most common reason an owner of a car cannot begin their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening car key fob repair near me is an easy fix. This may seem simple, but you must be careful. The key is very thin and could break if bent even slightly.
To do this, you'll require a stable workspace, and a pair of pliers. Hold the key at the other end using the pliers and bend it until it is straight. This is best done on a flat surface, or in a vise. Then, you can put it in the lock to see if it changes.
If not, it may be time to get a new key cut. There is no need to call a locksmith and your key will function.
It's a good idea to keep a spare in your pocket so that you don't end up without access to your vehicle in the event of a lost key.
If you're experiencing problems with a broken or bent key, you can try applying lubrication on it before inserting it into the lock. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder and will prevent it from getting stuck. You can use a spray lubricant or graphite powder. If you are using a spray, ensure that you attach the plastic tubing that came with it for more precise application. This will also help keep moisture from damaging your key.
Stuck pins or springs
A pin (also called a roll pin or spring) may become stuck. Pins are a tiny 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends that are used to connect 2 parts of machines. In most instances, it is possible to remove pins by simply pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.
If you own an older vehicle that has microchip keys, it is possible that the key needs to be programmed to function with your car. This process can be simple or complicated depending on the car's manufacturer and model.
If you need assistance with your car keys or locks, give us call! We can repair, replace or program almost every vehicle key.
Gear Selector
It is essential to take your vehicle to a mechanic as soon 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 continue to drive it. It could also be a sign that your transmission system is having bigger issues, which can be costly to repair.
Most of the time the issue is fixable. The cable end that is attached to the lever may snap or come uncoupled. The mechanic can repair this within a couple of minutes.
In some cases the bushings of the gear selector could be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that cover articulation points within the gear system to help it move more smoothly. They perform the same function to cartilage in your knees so it's crucial that they stay healthy and flexible.
You can extend the life of your gear selector by doing a few simple things. You should avoid the gear selection in very cold weather. This is because the gear control cables tend to freeze and cracking. You should also replace the bushings using premium quality ones, like those from First Line.
These bushings form an essential component of your selection of gears and shouldn't be overlooked. If you notice that yours is worn out, you should visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. They can assist you in finding the correct parts to repair your gear selection device. They also offer various other services, including maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn on your key in the ignition and hear nothing other than a click, your battery is dead. The average battery lasts between three and five years and as they age they go through natural processes that cause them to end up dying early. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be covered with sulfate crystalline deposits.
A dead battery can cause your car to lose power, which could cause the radio to stop working or electric window becoming unresponsive. If you've had difficulty starting your car during cold weather, it could be a sign that you require an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes, your issue might not be caused by a dead battery, but rather a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. This issue can be solved by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are working correctly.
A key fob that is not functioning properly is a common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob is connected to the computer in your vehicle, and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. This system may be confused or stop communicating if it gets submerged or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
Follow the instructions in the 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 electronic devices on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this does not fix your device, it could require professional programming which requires the help of an expert. But it's still worth attempting these steps before deciding to pay for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder chip built into them that sends an electronic signal to a receiver within the ignition when it is inserted. This signal tells an immobilizer that the key is right for the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft became a major problem. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system due to security and insurance reasons.
If you own a brand new vehicle, the only way to replace your keys is to go to the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go there note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This can be found on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in the 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 duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using an exact cutting machine in-store. If the key you have is a blade style, a key fob, or has a large black or grey head on it, it'll require programming to the specific car you own before it can be used to start the engine.