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 engage in the ignition. It could occur at the most inconvenient time, such as when you're filling your car with groceries or returning home from work.
There are many solutions that will bring you back on the way. Here are some common key issues in the automotive industry and their solutions:
Broken or bent keys
The most frequent reason an owner of a car cannot begin their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is a simple fix. It might sound easy, but it is important to do it with care. The key is extremely thin, and bending it even small enough could cause it to break.
You'll need a solid work surface and a pair pliers to do this. Pick up one end of the key with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on a flat surface or in a vice. After that, you can place it in the lock to test whether it will turn.
If not, it may be time to have a new key cut. This will save you from having to contact a locksmith and will ensure your key will work.
It's a good idea to keep a spare in your pocket, so you don't end up without a way into your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.
If you're having difficulty inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying some oil to it. This will allow it to move through the cylinder, and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. If using a spray, ensure that you attach the plastic tubing included with it for more precise application. This will also prevent water from destroying your important.
Stuck pins or springs
Sometimes a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring may get stuck. A pin is a small piece of metal that is 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 with your fingers or using a wrench.
If you have a newer vehicle that is equipped with keys with microchips inside, there is a chance the key needs to be programmed to work with your car. This process is different based on the model of car and the manufacturer.
Call us if you need assistance with your vehicle keys or locks! We can repair, replace or program virtually any car key.
Gear Selector
If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, it's crucial to take it to a mechanic as soon as you notice it. It's a security issue and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This could also be a sign that your transmission system is having bigger problems that are expensive to repair.
Luckily, most of the time this problem can be fixed easily. Most often, the cable end that is connected get more info to the lever can snap or break off. The mechanic can repair this in a few minutes.
In some cases the bushings on the gear selector may be damaged or worn. Rubber covers are placed around the joints of the gear system in order to make it more fluid. These covers work similarly to cartilage joints, which is why they require to be flexible and healthy.
You can extend the life of your gear selector by doing a few basic things. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector during extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables controlling the gear are prone to freezing and cracking. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, for instance the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are an essential element of your gear selector, and should not be ignored. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a great idea to go to an auto repair shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the right parts to restore your gear selection apparatus. They can also provide you with various other services, like maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn the key in the ignition and hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through natural processes that cause them to die prematurely. This is because the negative plates of the battery of your car will begin to become coated by sulfate crystals.
A dead battery could cause the loss of the power source in your car and cause the radio or electric windows to stop working. If your car is experiencing problems getting started in cold weather, this could be an indication that it is time for an upgrade to your battery.
It's possible that the issue is not caused by a dead battery but a malfunction here in the charging system. Having your mechanic check to ensure that the serpentine belt, alternator and battery cables are working correctly can resolve this issue.
Another common automotive key repair is an ignition key that isn't working properly. The key fob connects to the computer in your car, and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. This system may become confused or stop communicating if it becomes wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
It is usually possible to reset the lost key fob following the steps in the owner's guide. Depending on the vehicle it will require opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronics on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix your fob, it may need to be professionally programmed and will require an expert. But it's still worthwhile to try these easy steps before deciding to pay for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys include an embedded transponder chip in them. It transmits signals to a receiver in the ignition when they are website inserted. This signal informs the immobilizer inside the car if the here key is the right one for it 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 own a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key may be at the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer check here directly. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle before you go. It is located on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in the owner's manual.
Bring your current working key along to an participating AutoZone store, and an associate will employ machines to trace the contours of your blank key to accurately replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using an exact cutting machine on site. If your key is equipped with blade, fob or a large grey/black head, it will need to be programmed to your car before you can use it to start the motor.