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 happens at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're filling up your trunk with groceries or when you're returning to home from work.
There are a variety of solutions to help you get back on your way. Here are a few common automotive key repair problems and their possible solutions:
Broken or bent key
The most common reason why the owner of a car is unable to begin their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is a simple fix. This may seem simple but be careful. The key is very thin, and bending it even a little can cause it to break.
To do this, you'll need a stable workspace, and pliers. Grab 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. After that, you can place it in the lock to determine if it will turn.
If not, car key fob repair near me may require a new key made. There is no need to call a locksmith and your existing key will function.
Keep a spare key in your pocket to ensure you're not left without access to your vehicle if yours is damaged.
If you are having trouble inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying oil to it. This will enable it to move easier through the cylinder and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. If you're using a spray ensure you attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure a more precise application. This will also stop water from destroying your key.
Pins that are snuck or springs
Sometimes, a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring can become stuck. Pins are a tiny 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends, which are used to connect two parts of a machine. In most cases, you can remove pins by simply pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.
If you have an older vehicle that has microchip keys, it is possible that the key will need to be programmed in order to function with your car. This can be a simple or difficult depending on the car's model and manufacturer.
If you need assistance with your car keys or locks, give us call! We can repair, replace or program almost every vehicle key.
Selector for gears
If your car's gear selector gets stuck in park mode, it's important to bring it to a mechanic right away. It's a security issue and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This could be a sign that your transmission system is having bigger problems that are expensive to fix.
Most times this issue is easily fixable. Most often, the cable end that is connected to the lever can snap or become disconnected. The mechanic can fix this issue in a matter of minutes.
In some instances, however, the gear selector bushing can be damaged or worn out. Rubber covers are placed around the joints of the gear system in order to ensure that it is fluid. These rubber covers function similarly to cartilage joints, and therefore must be healthy and flexible.
You can extend the life of your gear selector by doing a few basic things. You should avoid the gear selection in very cold temperatures. The cables that control the gears can freeze and crack. You should also replace the bushings with high quality ones, like those from First Line.
These bushings form an essential component of your selection of gears and shouldn't be ignored. If you find that yours is worn out, it's a great idea to visit an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help you locate the right parts to restore the gear selector mechanism. They also provide many other services like maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn the key in the ignition and hear only a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through natural processes that cause them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will start to be coated with sulfate crystal deposits.
A dead battery could cause the loss of electrical power within your vehicle, causing the radio or the electric windows to stop working. If you've had trouble starting your car in cold weather, this could be a sign you require an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes your problem might not be caused by a dead battery, but a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. Having your mechanic check to make sure that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are working correctly can resolve this issue.
A key fob that is not working properly is another common automotive key repair. The key fob is a small device that connects to the vehicle's computer and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. This system can get confused or cease communicating with your vehicle if it is exposed to harsh temperatures or gets wet.
Follow the steps in the owner's guide to reset the lost keyfob. Based on the model it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix your fob, it may need to be professionally programmed and will require a special technician. However, it's still worthwhile to try these easy steps before you decide to shell out for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder chip embedded in them. It transmits a signal to a receiver within the ignition when inserted. The signal is sent to an immobilizer to determine that the key is right to allow the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft was an issue. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system due to safety and insurance reasons.
If you own a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key could be through a dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Before you visit note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the dashboard's front or door jamb in the owner's manual.
Bring your working key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate 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 with a precise cutting machine. If your key is equipped with an edge, a fob, or a thick grey/black head, it will need to be programmed to your car before you can start the motor.