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 turn on the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're filling your trunk with groceries or when you're returning home from work.
There are many different solutions to help you get back on your way. Here are some common automotive key repair problems and solutions for them:
Broken or bent key
The most frequent reason an owner of a car cannot start their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is an easy fix. It may sound simple however it is crucial to do it carefully. The key is very thin, and bending it even small enough could cause it to break.
To accomplish this, you'll need an area that is stable, as well as a pair of pliers. Take the key at the other end using the pliers, and bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on an even surface or in a vice. Then, you can place it inside the lock to test whether it turns.
If not, you might need to have a new one made. This will save you from having to contact a locksmith and will ensure that your key will function.
It's a good idea keep a spare in your pocket, so you don't end up without an entry point into your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.
If you're experiencing problems with a bent or broken key, try putting some oil on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder, and prevent it from becoming stuck. It is possible to use a spray graphite powder or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray for a more precise application. This will also help prevent water from destroying your key.
Pins that are snuck or springs
A pin (also called a roll pin or a 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 pieces of an equipment. In most cases, you can remove pins by simply pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.
If you own a brand new car that uses keys with microchips in it, there is an opportunity that the key has to be programmed to work with your car. This can be a simple or complex depending on the manufacturer and car.
Call us if you need assistance with your car locks or keys! We can repair, replace or programme virtually any car key.
Gear Selector
If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, you need to bring it to an expert mechanic immediately. This is a security issue and could lead to serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. It could also be a sign that the transmission system is having bigger problems that are expensive to fix.
Most of the time the issue is fixable. Most often, the cable end that is attached to the lever could snap or break off. The mechanic can repair car keys this in a few minutes.
In some cases the bushings of the gear selector could be damaged or worn. These are rubber coverings that are placed around the joints within the gear system to aid in making it shift more easily. They perform the same function to cartilage in your knees, so it's crucial to keep them healthy and supple.
You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few simple things. It is best to avoid the gear selection in very cold weather. The cables for controlling the gear could freeze and crack. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, for instance the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings form an important part of your gear selector and should not go unnoticed. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a great idea to visit an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help you locate the ideal parts to fix the gear selector Automotive key repair mechanism. They can also offer various other services such as transmission maintenance and service.
Dead battery
If you turn on your key in the ignition and hear nothing except a click, your battery is dead. Most batteries last between three and five years and as they age, they go through natural processes that cause them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be covered with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery could cause your vehicle to lose power, which could lead to the radio or electric window malfunctioning. If your car has been having 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 a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. A mechanic's check to make sure that the serpentine belt, alternator and battery cables are all working correctly can resolve this issue.
Another common automotive key repair is a key fob that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob is a tiny device that connects to your computer in the vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and accessory systems. The system could become confused or stop communicating with your car when it is exposed extreme temperatures or is wet.
Follow the instructions in your owner's guide to reset the lost keyfob. Depending on the vehicle, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronics on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If this doesn't work for your fob, it may require professional programming by an expert. Try these easy techniques before buying an entirely new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys include a transponder chip built into them. It transmits an electronic signal to a receiver in the ignition when they are inserted. This signal tells an immobilizer that the key is right for the car to begin. In the 1990s, car theft was a major issue. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system to ensure security and insurance reasons.
If you have a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your keys is at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car prior to you leave. You can find this number on the dashboard, in the door jamb or in the owner's manual.
Bring your current working key along 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 your key has a blade, a fob or a thick grey/black head, it will need to be programmed for your vehicle before you can start the motor.