Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all experienced this - the car key won't turn on the ignition. It could occur at the worst moment, for instance, when you're loading your trunk full of groceries or driving home from work.
There are many solutions that will bring you back on the way. Here are some common automotive key problems and solutions:
Broken or bent keys
The most frequent reason the owner of a car is unable to start their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is a simple fix. This may seem simple however, you need to be cautious. The key is extremely thin and may break if bent even a little.
You'll need a sturdy work surface and a pair pliers to accomplish this. Take one end of the key with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on the floor or in a vice. After that, you can place it in the lock to determine whether it turns.
If not, it might be time to get a new key cut. You don't have to contact a locksmith and your key will still function.
It's a good idea keep a spare key in your pocket, so you don't find yourself without 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 grease on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray to get the most precise application. This will also help prevent moisture from damaging your key.
Spring pins and springs with pins
Sometimes, a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring could get stuck. Pins are a tiny 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends that are used to connect two components of machines. In most cases, you can remove pins by pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench.
If you have an older vehicle that has microchip keys, it is possible that the key will need to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This procedure can differ based on the manufacturer and car.
If you need help with your automotive keys or locks, give us a call! We can repair, replace, or program almost any vehicle key.
Gear Selector
If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, it's important to take it to an expert mechanic immediately. It's a safety concern, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This could be a sign that your transmission is experiencing more serious issues, which can be costly to repair.
Most of the time the issue is fixable. The cable end that is attached to the lever could snap or break off. The mechanic can fix this issue in a matter of minutes.
In some cases there are instances where the gear selector bushing may get damaged or worn out. These are rubber covers that cover articulation points within the gear system to aid in making it move more fluidly. These covers function similar to the cartilage in your joints, which is why they need to be flexible and healthy.
You can extend their life by doing a few basic things. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector in extremely cold weather. This is because the cables controlling the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. It is recommended to replace the bushings with premium quality ones, such as those from First Line.
These bushings form an essential element of your selection of gears and shouldn't be overlooked. If you find that yours is worn out, it's a great idea to go to an auto repair shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the correct parts to repair your gear selection apparatus. They can also provide you with various other services, such as maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn on your key in the ignition but you don't hear anything other than a click, your battery is dead. The average battery lasts between three and five years, and as they age, they go through an natural process that causes them to die prematurely. This is because the negative plates inside the battery of your car will begin to be coated with crystals of sulfate.
A dead battery could cause the loss of the power source in your car and cause the radio or electric windows to fail. If you have been having difficulties starting your car in cold weather this could be a sign that you need an upgrade to your battery.
It's possible that your issue is not caused by an unresponsive battery but a malfunction in the charging system. This issue can be fixed by having your mechanic check that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are working properly.
Another common automotive key repair is a key fob that has stopped working properly. The key fob is connected to the computer in your car, and relays signals and commands between the engine and the 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 the lost key fob by following the instructions provided in your owner's manual. Based on the vehicle you have you may have to open and close the doors, switch lights and other electronic devices off and on by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or open and shut the windows. If this doesn't fix your fob it may need to professionally programmed that will require the assistance of an expert. But it's still worthwhile to try these easy 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 an indication. The signal informs an immobilizer if the key is correct for the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft became a major issue. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system to ensure safety and insurance reasons.
If you have a brand newer car, the only way to replace your key may be through a dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Before you go there note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number can be found on the dashboard, the door jamb or in the owner's guide.
Bring your current key along to an AutoZone store and a representative will use machines to trace the contours of the key blank to precisely replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on the spot by a cutting machine that is precise. If car key repair service has an edge, a fob or a thick grey or black head it will need to be programmed to your car before you can use it to start the motor.