Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all experienced this the car keys won't turn in the ignition. It can occur at the most inconvenient time, such as when you are loading your car with groceries or returning home from work.
Instead of panicking There are many solutions to get you back on the road. Here are some of the most common key issues with cars and their solutions:
Broken or bent key
The most frequent reason the owner of a car is unable to start their car is a bent key. Straightening the key is a simple fix. It may sound simple however it is crucial to do this carefully. The key is very thin and can break if you bend it even slightly.
To accomplish this, you will need an area that is stable, as well as a pair of pliers. Take one end of the key with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on a flat surface or in a vice. Then, you can put it in the lock to test if it will turn.
If not, you could need to get a new one made. This will prevent you from needing to contact a locksmith and can ensure that your key will function.
It's a good idea to keep a spare in your pocket, so that you don't have a way into your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.
If you're having issues with a bent or broken key, try applying some oil on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will allow it to move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite as a spray lubricant. If you're using a spray be sure to attach the plastic tubing included with it for a more precise application. This will also help to prevent moisture from ruining your key.
Stuck pins and springs
A pin (also known as a roll pin, or a spring) can sometimes become stuck. Pins are a tiny piece of metal that is between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long, with hollow ends. It is used to connect two pieces of machines. In the majority of cases, you can remove a nut by pulling it out with your fingers or the wrench.
If you own an older car that is equipped with a microchip key, it is possible that the key will need to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This procedure can be easy or difficult depending on the manufacturer and car.
If you need assistance with your keys for your vehicle or locks, give us a call! We can repair, replace, or program nearly any key for your vehicle.
Selector for gears
It's crucial to take your vehicle to a mechanic as soon 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 you continue to drive it. This could also indicate larger issues with the transmission system that could be expensive to fix.
Most of the time this issue is easily fixable. The cable end that is connected to the lever may snap or break off. The mechanic can fix this within a couple of minutes.
In some instances, however, the gear selector bushing may become damaged or worn out. These are rubber covers that go around joints within the gear system to aid in making it shift more fluidly. They work in a similar manner as cartilage in your knees, so it's crucial to keep them healthy and flexible.
It's not uncommon for them to degrade over time, however there are a few things you can do to extend their life. First, you should avoid using the gear selector during extremely cold weather. The gear control cables can freeze and break. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, such as those made by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are a critical component 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. They will help you find the right parts to restore your gear selection apparatus. They can also offer various other services such as maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn the key in the ignition and you hear only a click, then your battery is dead. Most batteries last between three and five years, and as they get older, they go through a natural process that causes them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will start to be covered with sulfate crystal deposits.
A dead battery may also cause your car to lose power, which can result in the radio or electric window becoming unresponsive. If your car has been experiencing problems beginning in cold weather, this could be a good sign that it is time for an upgrade to your battery.
It's possible that your issue is not caused by a dead battery but an issue with the charging system. A mechanic's check to verify that the serpentine belt, alternator, 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 connected to your vehicle's computer and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. The system could be confused or stop communicating if it becomes wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
Follow the instructions in your owner's guide to reset a lost keyfob. Depending on your vehicle it may be necessary to open and close the doors, turn lights and other electronic devices on and off, press a certain sequence of buttons, or shut and open the windows. If this doesn't solve your fob, it might require professional programming and will require an expert. It's worth trying these simple techniques before purchasing an entirely new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder which when inserted into ignition, transmits the signal. This signal tells an immobilizer if the key is correct to allow the car to start. In key fob repair near me of vehicles became such an issue that many manufacturers fitted this transponder security system in their vehicles for security and insurance purposes.
If you own a newer car, the only way to replace your key may be through the dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Before you go note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the front of the dashboard or door jamb in the owner's manual.
Bring your current working key along to a participating AutoZone store and an associate will employ a machine to trace the contours of your key blank to precisely replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with an exact cutting machine in-store. If the key you have is a blade type or a key fob or has a thick black or grey head, it'll need to be programmed to your specific car before it can be used to start the engine.