Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all been there when the car's key doesn't turn on the ignition. It can occur at the worst moment, like when you're loading your trunk full of groceries or heading home from work.
Rather than panic There are many options to get you back on the road. Here are a few common car key repair issues and solutions for them:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most frequent reason a car owner can't start their vehicle. It can be fixed by simply straightening the key. It might sound easy, but it is important to do this carefully. The key is thin and may break if bent even slightly.
To do this, you'll need an area that is stable, as well as a pair of pliers. Grab one end of the key using the pliers and bend it back until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on the floor or in a vice. You can then put it into the lock to see if it changes.
If not, it could be time to have a new key cut. There is no need to call a lock-smith and your existing key will work.
Keep a spare key in your pocket so you don't have the ability to get into your vehicle if it is damaged.
If you are experiencing issues with a broken or bent key, try applying some lubrication on it before trying to insert it into the lock. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder, and will prevent it from getting stuck. You can use a spray graphite or lubricant. Use the plastic tube that comes with the spray for an even more precise application. This will also help to prevent moisture from ruining your key.
Stuck pins or springs
Sometimes a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring may get stuck. Pins are 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 components of a machine. In the majority of cases, you can remove pins by simply pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.
If you own a newer vehicle that is equipped with a key with a microchip inside, there is an opportunity that the key has to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This procedure can be easy or difficult depending on the car's manufacturer and model.
Contact us for assistance with your car locks or keys! We are able to repair, replace or program almost any vehicle key.
key fob repairs
If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, it's crucial to bring it to a mechanic right away. This is a security issue and you could cause serious vehicle damage if continue driving. This problem can also be a sign of more serious issues in the transmission system itself, which could be costly to repair.
Luckily, most of the time, this issue can be easily fixed. The most common reason the gear selector may get stuck is that one of the cable ends has snapped, or become uncoupled from the lever itself. The mechanic can repair this issue in a matter of minutes.
In certain instances, however, the gear selector bushing could get damaged or worn out. These are rubber covers that are placed around the articulation points within the gear system to help it move more fluidly. They perform the same function as cartilage in your knees so it's crucial that they remain healthy and supple.
You can extend their life by doing a few easy things. It is best to avoid the gear selection during extremely cold temperatures. This is because the gear control cables are prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace the bushings with premium quality ones, like those from First Line.
These bushings form an important part of your gear selector and shouldn't be overlooked. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a great idea to visit an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you in finding the right parts to fix your gear selection apparatus. They can also provide you with many other services, like maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you switch the ignition key and you hear nothing but a click then your battery is dead. The majority of batteries last between three and five years, and as they get older, they go through an natural process that causes them to end up dying early. 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 can cause the radio to stop working or electric window malfunctioning. If you've had difficulty starting your car during cold weather, this could be a sign that you need an upgrade to your battery.
It is possible that your issue is not caused by an issue with your battery, but rather an issue with the charging system. This problem can be resolved by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are working correctly.
Another common repair for a key in the automotive is a key fob that isn't working properly. The key fob is connected to your vehicle's computer and relays signals as well as commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system may be confused or cease communicating if it is wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
Follow the directions in the owner's guide to reset a lost keyfob. Depending on the vehicle it will require opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronics on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this doesn't work for your fob, it could need to be professionally programmed by an expert. However, it's still worth attempting these steps before you decide to shell out for a new device.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys have a transponder chip embedded in them that sends an electronic signal to a receiver in the ignition when inserted. The signal informs the immobilizer on the car if the key is the right one for it to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major issue. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system to ensure security and insurance reasons.
If you own a brand new vehicle, the only option to replace your keys is at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car before you go. This number is usually found on the dashboard, the door jamb or in the owner's manual.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone store, and an associate will use an instrument to trace the contours of your key blank to accurately replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with an exact cutting machine in-store. If the key you have is a blade style or a key fob or has a thick grey or black head, it'll have to be programmed to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.