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 car with groceries or returning home from work.
Rather than panic There are many options to get you back on the road. Here are a few common automotive key repair issues and their possible solutions:
Broken or bent key
A bent key is the most frequent reason a car owner can't start their vehicle. It can be repaired by simply straightening the key. This may sound simple however it is crucial to do this carefully. The key is very thin, and bending it even a little can cause it to break.
To accomplish this, you'll require a stable workspace, and a pair of pliers. Take one end of the key using the pliers and bend it back until it is straight. It is best to do this on the floor or in a vice. Then, you can put it into the lock to see if it turns.
If not, it might be time to have a new key cut. This will save you from needing to call a locksmith and can ensure that your key will function.
It's a good idea to keep a spare in your pocket, so you don't find yourself without access to your vehicle in the event of a broken key.
If you're having issues with a bent or broken key, try putting some lubrication on it before inserting it into the lock. This will enable it move through the cylinder and stop it from getting stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. If using a spray, ensure you attach the plastic tubing included with it for more precise application. This will also help stop moisture from ruining your key.
Spring pins and springs with pins
Sometimes a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring could get stuck. A pin is a small 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends, which are used to connect 2 parts of an equipment. In most instances, it is possible to remove pins by pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.
If you have a newer car that uses a key with a microchip inside, there is an opportunity that the key has to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This process is different based on the model of car and the manufacturer.
If you need assistance with your car keys or locks, give us a call! We can repair, replace, or program nearly any key for your vehicle.
Gear selector
It's important to get your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a security issue and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This is also a sign of bigger problems in the transmission system itself, which can be costly to repair.
Most times, this problem is easily fixable. The most common reason the gear selector can be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped off or separated from the lever itself. The mechanic can repair this in a few minutes.
In some cases, however, the gear selector bushing may become damaged or worn out. These are rubber covers that cover joints within the gear system to help it move more smoothly. They function in a similar way to cartilage in your knees, therefore it is important to ensure that they remain in good shape and soft.
It's not uncommon for them to wear out over time, but there are a few ways to extend their lifespan. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector during extremely cold temperatures. This is because the gear control cables are often prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace the bushings with high quality ones, such as the ones from First Line.
These bushings are an important component of your gear selector and should not go unnoticed. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to go to an auto repair shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the right parts to fix the gear selection system. They also offer a variety of other services such as maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you switch the ignition key 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 an natural process that causes them to die early. This is due to the negative plates inside your car battery will start to become coated by sulfate crystals.
A dead battery could cause your car to lose electrical power, which can result in the radio or electric window becoming unresponsive. If you have been having difficulty starting your car during cold weather, this could be a sign you require a new battery.
It is possible that your issue is not due to an issue with your battery, but rather a malfunction in the charging system. This problem can be resolved by having your mechanic verify that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are all functioning properly.
Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is an ignition key that has stopped working properly. The key fob is connected to your vehicle's computer and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system could be confused or stop communicating if it becomes wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.
It is possible to reset the lost key fob following the instructions provided in the owner's manual. Depending on the type of vehicle it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronics on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If this doesn't work for your fob, it could need to be professionally programmed by a special technician. Try these easy techniques before purchasing an entirely new fob.
key fob repairs have an embedded transponder chip in them that sends an electronic signal to a receiver in the ignition when it is inserted. This signal tells an immobilizer if the key is correct for the car to begin. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became an issue that many manufacturers put this transponder security system in their vehicles for safety and insurance purposes.
If you have a brand newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key could be at the dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Before you visit note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This can be found on the front of the dashboard or door jamb in the owner's manual.
Bring your current working key along to an participating AutoZone store and a representative will utilize a machine to trace the contours of the key blank to accurately duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site using a precision cutting machine. If the key you are using has a blade, a fob or a large head that is grey or black it will need to be programmed for your car before you can start the motor.