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 moment, for instance, when you're filling your trunk with groceries or heading home from work.
There are many solutions that can get you back on your way. Here are a few of the most common automotive key repair problems and possible solutions:
Broken or bent keys
The most common reason why a car owner cannot begin their vehicle is a bent key. This can be easily repaired by simply straightening the key. It might sound easy, but it is important to do it carefully. The key is extremely thin and bending it just one degree can cause it to break.
To accomplish this, you'll require an area with a solid foundation, as well as an plier. Grab one end of the key using the pliers, and then bend it back until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface or in a vise. Then, you can put it in the lock to see whether it turns.
If not, it may be time to have a new key cut. You will not need to call a locksmith and your existing key will work.
It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your pocket, so you don't find yourself without access to your vehicle in the event of a lost key.
If you're having issues with a broken or bent key, try putting some grease on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder, and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite as a spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray to get a more precise application. This will also help to keep moisture from damaging your key.
Spring pins and springs with pins
Sometimes, a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring may become stuck. Pins are small 2 to 3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends that are used to connect two parts of machines. In most cases you can take a nut off by pulling it out using your fingers or the wrench.
If you own a brand new vehicle that is equipped with an electronic key with a microchip in it, there is a chance the key needs to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This procedure can differ based on the car and manufacturer.
Contact us for assistance with your vehicle keys or locks! We are able to repair, replace or program almost any vehicle key.
Gear Selector
It's important to get your vehicle to a mechanic as fast 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 continue to drive it. This issue can also be a sign of larger issues in the transmission system that could be expensive to fix.
Most of the time the issue is fixable. Most often, the cable that is connected to the lever may snap or break off. The mechanic can fix this in a few minutes.
In some instances the gear selector bushing could be damaged or worn out. Rubber covers are placed around the points of articulation of the gear system in order to ensure that it is fluid. These covers work similarly to the cartilage in your joints, which is why they require to be healthy and flexible.
It is not uncommon for them to degrade in time, but there are some ways to extend their lifespan. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector during extremely cold temperatures. The cables for controlling the gear could freeze and crack. You should also replace the bushings using premium quality ones, such as those from First Line.
car key fob repair near me are an essential element of your gear selector and shouldn't be overlooked. If you find that yours is worn out, it's a great idea to go to an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the right parts to restore the gear selection system. They can also provide various other services, like maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn your key in the ignition and hear nothing except a click, your battery is dead. The majority of batteries last between three and five years, and as they get older, they go through a natural process that causes them to end up dying prematurely. This is due to the negative plates inside your car battery will start to become coated by sulfate crystals.
A dead battery can also cause you to lose the electrical power in your vehicle which can cause the radio or electric windows to malfunction. If your car is experiencing problems beginning in cold weather, this is an indication that it's time to get an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes, the issue may not be a dead battery, but rather a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. This problem can be resolved by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables all work correctly.
A key fob that is not functioning properly is a common automotive key repair. The key fob is connected to the computer in your car and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system can become confused or stop communicating if it becomes submerged or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
It is usually possible to reset a lost key fob by following the instructions provided in the owner's guide. Depending on the type of vehicle, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronic devices on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix your fob, it might need to be professionally programmed by a special technician. car key fob repair near me trying these simple methods before you buy an entirely new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys have a transponder chip built into them that sends an electronic signal to a receiver within the ignition when inserted. This signal tells an immobilizer whether the key is in the right place for the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major problem. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system for safety and insurance reasons.
If you have a brand newer vehicle, the only way to replace your key could be through a 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 current key to an AutoZone participating store. A representative will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site using a precision cutting machine. If the key you are using has blade, fob or a thick grey/black head, it will need to be programmed for your car before you can start the motor.