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 turn in the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient moments, like when you're loading your trunk with groceries, or on your way to home from work.
There are many solutions that will get you back on your way. Here are some of the most common automotive key problems and solutions:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most frequent reason a car owner can't start their vehicle. This can be repaired by simply bending the key. It may appear simple however, you need to be cautious. The key is thin and can break if bent even a little.
To do this, you'll need a stable workspace, and an plier. car key fob repair near me of the key using the pliers and bend it back until it is straight. This should be done on a flat surface, or in a vise. Then, you can put it inside the lock to test whether it will turn.
If not, it might be time to get a new key cut. You don't have to contact a locksmith and your existing key will function.
It's a good idea keep a spare in your pocket so that you don't have a way into your vehicle in the event of a broken key.
If you're experiencing problems with a bent or broken key, try applying some grease on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will help it to move easier 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 which comes with the spray for a more precise application. This will also help prevent water from destroying your device.
Stuck pins or springs
Sometimes a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring could get stuck. Pins are a small piece of steel that measures between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long, with hollow ends. It is used to connect two components of machines. In most instances, you can take out pins by simply pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench.
If you own an older vehicle that has microchip keys it is likely that the key needs to be programmed in order to function with your car. This procedure can be easy or difficult 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 almost any vehicle key.
Gear Selector
If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, it's crucial to bring it to an expert mechanic immediately. It's a safety concern and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This could also indicate larger issues with the transmission system itself, which can be costly to repair.
Most times the issue is fixable. Most often, the cable end that is attached to the lever could snap or break off. The mechanic can fix this within a couple of minutes.
In certain instances, the bushings on the gear selector might be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that go around joints within the gear system to help it shift more smoothly. These covers function similar to the cartilage that you have in your joints, and therefore require to be flexible and healthy.
You can extend their life by doing a few basic things. You should first avoid using the gear selection during extremely cold weather. The gear control cables could freeze and crack. It is recommended to replace the bushings using premium quality ones, like the ones from First Line.
These bushings are an essential component of your gear selector and shouldn't be overlooked. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to go to an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you to find the perfect parts to repair your gear selector device. They also provide a variety of other services like transmission maintenance and service.
Dead battery
If you switch the ignition on but hear only a click, then 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 the battery of your car will begin to become coated by sulfate crystals.
A dead battery could cause you to lose the electrical power in your vehicle, causing the radio or electric windows to stop working. If you have been having difficulty starting your car during cold weather this could be a sign that you require a new battery.
It's possible that your issue is not due to an issue with your battery, but rather a malfunction in the charging system. Your mechanic should verify that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are working properly could solve this issue.
Key fobs that are not working properly is another common issue with automotive keys. The key fob connects to your vehicle's computer and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. This system can get confused or stop communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed extreme temperatures or is wet.
Follow the steps in the owner's guide to reset a lost keyfob. Depending on the model of your car, you may need to open and close the doors, switch lights and other electronic devices off and on, press a certain sequence of buttons, or close and open the windows. If this doesn't fix your fob it may require professional programming that will require the assistance of technicians. It's worth trying these simple techniques before buying an entirely new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys include an embedded transponder chip in them that sends a signal to a receiver within the ignition when inserted. The signal is sent to an immobilizer to determine whether the key is in the right place for the car to begin. In the 1990s theft of cars became such an issue that many manufacturers fitted this transponder security device in their vehicles for safety and insurance reasons.
If you have a newer car, the only way to replace your keys could be at the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Before you go there, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the dashboard, the door jamb, or in the owner's manual.
Bring your current working key with you to an AutoZone store and a representative will use a machine to trace the contours of your blank key to accurately duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with a precise cutting machine onsite. If your key has blade, fob or a thick head that is grey or black, it will need to be programmed to your car before you can start the motor.