Check Out: How Automotive Key Repair Is Taking Over And What Can We Do About It
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 engage in the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're loading your trunk with groceries, or returning home from work.
There are a variety of solutions that can help you get back on your way. Here are some common automotive key problems and solutions:
Broken or bent key
The most common reason a car owner cannot start their car is a bent key. This can be easily fixed by simply straightening the key. It may sound simple, but it is important to do this carefully. The key is extremely thin and even bending it small enough could cause it to break.
You'll need a solid work surface and a pair pliers to accomplish this. Pick up one end of the key with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. This is best done on a flat surface or in a vise. Then, you can place it inside the lock to test if it will turn.
If not, it might be time to have a new key cut. This will save you from having to call a locksmith and can ensure that your key will work.
Keep an extra key in your pocket to ensure you're not left without a way to enter your vehicle in the event that your key is damaged.
If you're experiencing problems with a bent or broken key, you can try applying oil on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will allow it to move through the cylinder and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. If using a spray, ensure you attach the plastic tubing included with it for an easier application. This will also help to prevent moisture from ruining your key.
Pins that are snuck or springs
Sometimes a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring may become stuck. Pins are a small piece of steel that measures between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long and has hollow ends. It is used to connect two components of machines. In the majority of instances, it is possible to remove a pin by simply pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.
If you have an older car that uses microchip keys it is possible that the key will need to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This process can be simple or complicated depending on the car's model and manufacturer.
Contact us for assistance with your car keys or locks! We can repair, replace or programme almost any vehicle key.
Gear selector
It's crucial to take your car to a mechanic as soon as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a safety issue and you could cause serious vehicle damage if continue driving. This issue could also indicate larger issues with the transmission that could be expensive to fix.
Most times this issue is easily fixable. Most often, the cable end that is connected to the lever may snap or come uncoupled. The mechanic can repair this in a few minutes.
In some cases there are instances where the gear selector bushing can be damaged or worn out. These are rubber coverings that go around articulation points within the gear system to aid in making it move more smoothly. They function in a similar way to cartilage in your knees so it's crucial to keep them healthy and flexible.
It's not uncommon for them to degrade in time, but there are a few ways to extend their life. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector in very cold temperatures. The gear control cables can freeze and crack. You should also replace your bushings, such as those made by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are an essential part of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you find that yours is damaged you must visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. They can assist you in finding the right parts to fix your gear selection device. They also offer many other services such as maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn your key into the ignition and hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo natural processes that cause them to die prematurely. This is because the negative plates of the battery in your car begin to become coated with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery could cause your vehicle to lose electrical power, which can cause the radio to stop working or electric window malfunctioning. If broken car key repair near me has been having problems beginning in cold weather, it is a good sign that it's time to get a new battery.
Sometimes, your issue might not be caused by a dead battery, but an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. A mechanic's check to ensure that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all functioning properly can solve this problem.
A key fob that's not working properly is another common automotive key repair. The key fob is a small device that connects to the computer in the vehicle and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. This system can get confused or cease communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed extreme temperatures or is wet.
Follow the directions in the owner's guide to reset the lost keyfob. Depending on the type of vehicle it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronics on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this doesn't work for your fob, it may need to be professionally programmed and will require a special technician. Try these easy methods before you buy the 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 it is inserted. The signal informs an immobilizer whether the key is in the right place for the car to begin. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became an issue that many manufacturers installed this transponder security system into their vehicles to ensure safety and insurance purposes.
If you have a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key could be at the dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Before you go, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This can be found on the dashboard's front, door jamb, or in your owner's manual.
Bring your working key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will use a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key in order to precisely replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on-site with a precise cutting machine. If the key you are using has a blade, a fob or a thick grey or black head it must be programmed for your car before you can use it to start the motor.