Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all been there: your car key refuses to engage the ignition. It can happen at the worst possible moment, for instance, when you're loading your car with groceries or heading home from work.
Rather than panic, there are several different solutions to get you back on the road. Here are some of the most common automotive key problems and their solutions:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most common reason why a car owner is unable to start their car. It can be repaired by simply bending the key. This might seem easy however, you need to be careful. The key is thin and may break if bent even a little.
To do this, you'll require an area with a solid foundation, as well as a pair of pliers. Take the key on one end with the pliers and bend it 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 determine whether it turns.
If not, you might need to have a new one created. You don't need to call a lock-smith and your key will function.
Keep a spare key in your pocket so you're not left without a way to enter your vehicle in the event that your key breaks.
If you are having trouble inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying lubricant to it. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder, and prevent it from becoming stuck. Spray lubricant or graphite powder. If using a spray, be sure to attach the plastic tubing that came with it for more precise application. This will also help keep moisture from damaging your key.
Pins that are snuck or springs
Sometimes, a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring can become stuck. A pin is a small 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends that are used to connect 2 parts of machines. In most instances, you can take out pins by simply pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.
If you have an older car that is equipped with a microchip key it is possible that the key needs to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This procedure can be easy or complex depending on the car's model and manufacturer.
Contact us for assistance with your vehicle keys or locks! We can repair, replace or program almost any vehicle key.
Selector for gears
If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, it's important to take it to a mechanic right away. It's a security issue and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This problem could also indicate more serious issues with the transmission system that could be costly to repair.
Fortunately, the majority of the time this problem can be fixed easily. The most common reason the gear selector can get stuck is that one of the cable ends has snapped or separated from the lever itself. The mechanic can repair this in a few minutes.
In some instances, the bushings on the gear selector might be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that cover articulation points within the gear system, allowing it shift more fluidly. These covers function similar to the cartilage in your joints, which is why they require to be healthy and flexible.
You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few basic things. First, you should avoid using the gear selector in very cold temperatures. The cables for controlling the gear can freeze and break. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, like those made by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are an important component of your gear selector and should not go unnoticed. If you find that yours is worn out, it's a good idea to go to an auto repair shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the correct parts to repair your gear selection device. They can also provide you with many other services, including maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn your key into the ignition and you hear nothing except a click, your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through an natural process that causes them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be covered with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery can cause your car to lose power, which can cause the radio to stop working or electric window not working properly. If your car is having issues starting in cold weather, this is an indication that it is time for a new battery.
It is possible that your issue is not caused by an unresponsive battery but an issue with the charging system. A mechanic's check to 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 problem for automotive key repair. The key fob is a small unit that connects to the vehicle's computer and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system could become confused or stop communicating if it is wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
Follow the instructions in the owner's manual to reset a lost keyfob. Depending on the vehicle it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this doesn't work for your fob, it may require professional programming by an expert technician. Try these easy methods before you buy a new fob.
click the following page come with a transponder that when it is inserted into the ignition, sends out an indication. This signal informs the immobilizer inside the car whether the key is the correct one for it to start. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became a problem that most manufacturers installed this transponder security device in their vehicles for safety and insurance reasons.
If you own a newer vehicle, the only option to change your keys is to visit the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you visit make a note of the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number can be found on the dashboard, the door jamb, or in an owner's manual.
Bring your current key to a participating AutoZone store and an associate will utilize machines to trace the contours of your blank key to accurately duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using an exact cutting machine on site. If your key is blade style or key fob or has a thick grey or black head, it will require programming to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.