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 occurs at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're loading your car with groceries or returning home from work.
There are a variety of solutions that will bring you back on the way. Here are some of the most common key issues in the automotive industry and their solutions:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most common reason why a car owner is unable to start their car. This can be repaired by simply straightening the key. It might sound easy, but it is important to do this carefully. The key is very thin and can break if bent even a little.
To do this, you will need a stable workspace, and an plier. Grab the key at one end with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. This should be done on a flat surface, or in a vise. You can then put it in the lock to see if it changes.
If not, you could need to get a new key made. This will prevent you from needing to call a locksmith and will ensure your key will function.
It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your pocket, so that you don't end up without a way into your vehicle in the event of a broken key.
If you're having issues with a bent or broken key, try applying some grease on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will allow it to move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. It is possible to use a spray graphite or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray to get the most precise application. This will also prevent water from destroying your key.
Spring pins and springs that are stuck
Sometimes, a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring can get stuck. Pins are a tiny 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 components of an equipment. In most cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it off using your fingers or a wrench.
If you own a brand new car that has keys with microchips in it, there's an opportunity that the key has to be programmed in order to work with your car. This procedure can be easy or complex depending on the car's manufacturer and model.
If you require assistance with your car keys or locks give us a call! We can repair, replace, or program virtually any car key.
Gear Selector
It's crucial to take your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a safety concern and could lead to serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This could also be a sign that your transmission is experiencing more serious issues, which can be costly to fix.
Most of the time the issue is fixable. The cable end that is attached to the lever can snap or break off. This is a simple fix and the mechanic can usually complete the task within a few minutes.
In some instances, the bushings on the gear selector could be damaged or worn. The rubber covers are put around the points of articulation of the gear system in order to keep it fluid. These covers work similarly to the cartilage that you have in your joints, which is why they must be 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. You should first avoid using the gear selection in extremely cold weather. The cables for controlling the gear can freeze and break. You should also replace the bushings with premium quality ones, like the ones from First Line.
These bushings form an essential part of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you notice yours is worn out, you should visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the right parts to fix the gear selection system. repair car key fob can also offer a variety of other services such as transmission maintenance and service.
Dead battery
If you turn your key into the ignition but you don't hear anything except a click, 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. The negative plates of your car battery will start to be coated with sulfate crystal deposits.
A dead battery could cause your vehicle to lose power, which could result in the radio or electric window not working properly. If your car is experiencing problems beginning in cold weather, this is a good sign that it is time for a new battery.
Sometimes, your issue might not be a dead battery, but rather an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. A mechanic's check to verify that the serpentine belt, alternator and battery cables are all working correctly can resolve this problem.
Key fobs that are not functioning properly is a common automotive key repair. The key fob is a small device that connects to your vehicle's computer and relays commands and signals between the engine and accessory systems. The system may become confused or stop communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed to extreme temperatures or is wet.
You can usually reset the lost key fob by following the instructions provided in the owner's manual. Depending on the vehicle it will require 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 fix your fob it may require professional programming that will require the assistance of a technician. It's worth trying these simple techniques before purchasing an entirely new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys include a transponder chip embedded in them. It transmits signals to a receiver in the ignition when inserted. This signal tells the immobilizer on the car if it is the right one to allow it to start. In the 1990s, car theft became an issue. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system due to security and insurance reasons.
If you own a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your keys is at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go there make a note of the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). It is located on the dashboard's front or door jamb in your owner's manual.
Bring your current key with you to an AutoZone store and an associate will use machines to trace the contours of your key blank to precisely replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with an exact cutting machine on site. If your key is equipped with a blade, a fob or a large grey/black head, it will need to be programmed to your car before you can start the motor.