Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all been there - your car keys won't turn on the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient moments, like when you're filling up your car with groceries or returning home from work.
Instead of panicking There are many options to get you back on the road. Here are some common car key repair issues and solutions for them:
Broken or bent keys
The most common reason why 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's important to do it with care. The key is extremely thin and bending it just one degree can cause it to break.
To accomplish this, you'll need a stable workspace, and an plier. Grab one end of the key with the pliers, and then bend it back until it is straight. It is best to do this on a flat surface or in a vice. You can then put it into the lock to see if it changes.
If not, it might be time to get a new key cut. There is no need to call a lock-smith and your existing key will work.
Keep an extra key in your pocket so you don't have access to your vehicle if it is damaged.
If you're having difficulty inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying some grease to it. lock and key repair near me will allow it to move through the cylinder, and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can apply graphite or spray lubricant. If using a spray, ensure that you attach the plastic tubing included with it for a more precise application. This will also stop water from destroying your device.
Stuck pins or springs
Sometimes a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring can get stuck. Pins are a tiny 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends used to connect two components of an equipment. In most instances, you can take out pins by simply pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench.
If you own an older car that uses a microchip key it is possible that the key will need to be programmed in order to function with your car. This procedure can be easy or difficult depending on the manufacturer and car.
If you need help with your keys for your vehicle or locks, give us call! We are able to repair, replace or program almost any vehicle key.
Selector for gears
If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, it's important to take it to an expert mechanic immediately. 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 the transmission system is experiencing bigger issues, which can be costly to repair.
Luckily, most times, this issue is easily fixable. The cable end that is attached to the lever may snap or break off. The mechanic can repair this in a few minutes.
In some cases the bushing of the gear selector could be damaged or worn. These are rubber coverings that go around articulation points within the gear system to aid in making it move more easily. They function in a similar way as cartilage in your knees, so it's crucial to keep them in good shape and soft.
You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few easy things. It is best to avoid the gear selection in extremely cold weather. This is because the gear control cables tend to freeze and cracking. You should also replace your bushings, such as those made by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are an important component of your gear selector, and shouldn't be overlooked. If you notice that yours is damaged it is best to visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help you locate the right parts to repair your gear selector device. They also provide various other services, including transmission maintenance and service.
Dead battery
If you turn on your key in the ignition and you hear nothing other than a click, your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo natural processes that cause them to die prematurely. This is due to the negative plates in your car battery will start to be coated with crystals of sulfate.
A dead battery could cause your car to lose power, which can result in the radio or electric window malfunctioning. If your car has been experiencing problems starting in cold weather, this could be a good sign that it's time to get 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 working properly.
key repair service that is not working properly is another common automotive key repair. The key fob is a small unit that connects to the computer in the vehicle and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. The system could be confused or cease communicating if it gets wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
Follow the directions in the owner's manual to reset the lost keyfob. Depending on the model of your car, you may need to open and close the doors, turn lights and other electronic devices off and on by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or even open and shut the windows. If this does not fix your fob it may require professional programming which requires the help of technicians. It's worth trying these simple methods before you buy an entirely new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys include an embedded transponder chip in them. It transmits signals to a receiver in the ignition when it is inserted. The signal is sent to an immobilizer to determine if the key is correct for the car to begin. In the 1990s, theft of cars became such an issue that many manufacturers put this transponder security device in their vehicles for security and insurance reasons.
If you own a newer car, the only way to replace your key may be through a dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Before you go, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number can be found on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in the owner's guide.
Bring ignition key repair near me working key to a participating AutoZone store, and an associate will utilize a machine to trace the contours of your key blank to accurately duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on the spot with a precise cutting machine. If the key you are using has a blade, a fob or a large grey/black head it must be programmed to your car before you can start the motor.