Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all had this experience the car keys won't turn in the ignition. It can occur at the worst time, such as when you're filling your trunk full of groceries or driving home from work.
Rather than panic There are many solutions to get you back on the road. Here are a few common key issues in the automotive industry and solutions:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most common reason why a car owner is unable to start their vehicle. Straightening the key is an easy fix. It may sound simple however it is crucial to do it with care. car key fob repairs is very thin and can break if bent even slightly.
You'll need a solid work surface and a pair of pliers to accomplish this. Grab one end of the key with the pliers, and then bend it back until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on an even surface or in a vice. You can then put it inside the lock to see if it turns.
If not, it may be time to have a new key cut. This will prevent you from having to call a locksmith and will ensure that your key will function.
It's a good idea keep a spare in your pocket so that you don't find yourself without an entry point into your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.
If you're having issues with a bent or broken key, you can try applying grease on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. Spray graphite powder or lubricant. If you are using a spray, ensure you attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure an easier application. This will also prevent moisture from damaging your important.
Pins that are snuck or springs
A pin (also known as a roll pin or a spring) can sometimes get stuck. Pins are a tiny piece of metal that is between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long and has hollow ends. It is used to connect two components of a machine. In the majority of cases, you can remove a nut by pulling it off using your fingers or a wrench.
If you have an older vehicle that has a microchip key it is likely that the key will need to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This process is different based on the car and manufacturer.
Contact us if you require assistance with your car keys or locks! We can repair, replace or programme almost any vehicle key.
Gear Selector
It's important to get your car to a mechanic as fast as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a security issue, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This problem can also be a sign of larger issues with the transmission that could be expensive to fix.
Most of the time the issue is fixable. The cable that is connected to the lever can snap or break off. This is a simple fix and a mechanic will usually complete the task in a couple of minutes.
In certain instances, however, the gear selector bushing can become damaged or worn out. These are rubber coverings that are placed around the articulation points in the gear system to help it move more easily. They perform the same function to cartilage in your knees therefore it is important to ensure that they stay healthy and flexible.
It's not uncommon for them to degrade over time, however there are a few things you can do to prolong their life. First, you should avoid using the gear selector in very cold temperatures. This is because the cables controlling the gear are prone to freezing and cracking. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, such as the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are an essential component of your gear selector and should not be overlooked. If you notice that yours is damaged you must visit an auto repair shop specializing in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the right parts to fix the gear selection system. They can also offer various other services, such as maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn the ignition key and hear nothing but a click then your battery is dead. Most batteries last between three and five years and as they age they go through an natural process that causes them to die prematurely. This is due to the negative plates of your car battery will start to become coated by crystals of sulfate.
A dead battery could cause your vehicle to lose electrical power, which can cause the radio to stop working or electric window becoming unresponsive. If you've been having trouble starting your car in cold weather, it could be a sign you require a new battery.
Sometimes, your issue might not be a dead battery, but a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. This problem can be resolved by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all functioning correctly.
Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is a key fob that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob is a tiny unit that connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system can be confused or stop communicating if it becomes submerged or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
Follow the directions in your owner's guide to reset a lost keyfob. Based on the vehicle you have, you may need to open and close the doors, switch lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or even shut and open the windows. If this doesn't solve your device, it could need to professionally programmed that will require the assistance of a technician. However, it's still worth attempting these steps before you decide to shell out for a new device.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder, which when inserted into ignition, transmits a signal. The signal is sent to an immobilizer to determine if the key is correct for the car to begin. In the 1990s, theft of vehicles became an issue that the majority of manufacturers fitted this transponder security device in their vehicles to ensure safety and insurance purposes.
If you own a newer vehicle, the only option to change your keys is to visit the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go there note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). You can find this number on the dashboard, the 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 to accurately duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on-site by a cutting machine that is precise. If your key is equipped with an edge, a fob, or a thick head that is grey or black it will need to be programmed for your car before you can use it to start the motor.