Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all been there - your car key refuses to engage the ignition. It can happen at the worst possible moment, for instance, when you're loading your trunk full of groceries or driving home from work.
There are many solutions to bring you back on the way. Here are some common automotive key repair problems and possible solutions:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most common reason why car owners are unable to start their car. It can be repaired by simply straightening the key. It may appear simple, but you must be cautious. The key is extremely thin, and bending it even a little can cause it to break.
You will need a stable work surface and a pair of pliers to accomplish this. 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 inside the lock to see if it turns.
If not, it might be time to have a new key cut. There is no have to contact a locksmith and your key will work.
It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your pocket, so that you don't find yourself without an entry point into your vehicle in the event of a lost key.
If you're having issues with a broken or bent key, you can try applying oil on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will allow it to move through the cylinder, and will prevent it from getting stuck. You can use a spray lubricant or graphite powder. If you're using a spray be sure to attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure an easier application. This will also stop water from destroying your key.
Stuck pins and springs
A pin (also known as a roll pin, or a spring) can get stuck. Pins are a tiny piece of steel that measures between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long with hollow ends. It is used to connect two parts of a machine. In most instances, you can take out a pin by simply pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.
If you own an older vehicle that has a microchip key, it is possible that the key will need to be programmed to function with your car. This process can vary depending on the car and manufacturer.
Contact us for assistance with your car locks or keys! We can repair, replace, or program virtually any car key.
Selector for gears
It's important to get your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as you can when 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. It could also be a sign that the transmission is experiencing more serious issues, which can be costly to fix.
Luckily, most times, this issue can be easily fixed. car key fob repairs may get stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped, or become uncoupled from the lever itself. The mechanic can repair this in a few minutes.
In certain instances, the bushings of the gear selector may be damaged or worn. Rubber covers are positioned around the joints of the gear system in order to make it more fluid. These rubber covers function similarly to the cartilage in your joints, which is why they need to be flexible and healthy.
You can extend the life of your gear selector by doing a few basic things. It is best to avoid the gear selection during extremely cold weather. The gear control cables can freeze and break. It is recommended to replace the bushings with high quality ones, such as the ones from First Line.
These bushings are an essential component of your selection of gears and shouldn't be ignored. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a great idea to go to an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help you locate the ideal parts to restore your gear selector device. They can also offer a range of other services, such as transmission service and maintenance.
Dead battery
If you switch the ignition on and you hear nothing but a click then your battery is dead. The average battery lasts between three and five years and as they get older, they go through natural processes that cause them to die prematurely. This is due to the negative plates inside your car battery will start to become coated with crystals of sulfate.
A dead battery may also cause your vehicle to lose electrical power, which can lead to the radio or electric window malfunctioning. If you've had difficulty starting your car during cold weather, this could be a sign that you require a new battery.
Sometimes, the issue may not be caused by a dead battery, but an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. This issue can be fixed by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are working properly.
A key fob that's not functioning properly is another common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob is a small device that connects to your computer in the vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and accessory systems. The system may become confused or cease communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed extreme temperatures or is wet.
It is possible to reset the lost key fob by following the instructions provided in your owner's manual. Depending on the type of vehicle it will require opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronic devices on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your device, it could require professional programming, that will require the assistance of an expert. Try these easy methods before you buy an entirely new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder, which, when inserted into the ignition, transmits an indication. The signal informs the immobilizer in the car if the key is the correct one to allow it to start. In the 1990s, car theft became an issue. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system to ensure security and insurance reasons.
If you have a brand newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key may be at the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Before you go, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the dashboard's front, door jamb, or in your owner's manual.
Bring your current key to a participating AutoZone store and a representative will use machines 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 on site. If your key has blade, fob or a large grey/black head it will need to be programmed to your car before you can start the motor.