Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all been there - your car keys won't turn in the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, like when you're filling your car with groceries or on your way home from work.
There are many different solutions that will bring you back on the way. Here are a few common car key repair issues and possible solutions:
Broken or bent keys
The most frequent reason an owner of a car cannot start their car is a bent key. It can be repaired by simply straightening the key. This may seem simple however, you need to be cautious. The key is extremely thin and may break if bent even a little.
To do this, you will need an area with a solid foundation, as well as a pair of pliers. Take one end of the key with the pliers, and then bend it back until it is straight. This should be done on a flat surface or in a vise. You can then put it into the lock to see if it turns.
If not, it might be time to get a new key cut. This will save you from needing to call a locksmith, and will ensure your key will work.
Keep a spare 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 having issues with a bent or broken key, try putting some grease on it prior to 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 graphite or spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray to ensure an even more precise application. This will also help prevent moisture from damaging your device.
Pins that are snuck or springs
A pin (also called a roll pin, or a spring) may become stuck. Pins are a tiny 2 to 3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends used to connect two components of a machine. In the majority of cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.
If you own a newer vehicle that is equipped with keys with microchips in it, there is an opportunity that the key has to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This process can be simple or difficult depending on the manufacturer and car.
Contact us for assistance with your car keys or locks! We are able to repair, replace or program almost every vehicle key.
car key repair near me is essential to take your car to a mechanic as quickly as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a security issue and could lead to serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. This is also a sign of more serious issues with the transmission system that could be costly to repair.
Most of the time this issue is easily fixable. Most often, the cable end that is connected to the lever can snap or become disconnected. The mechanic can repair this issue in a matter of minutes.
In some instances, the bushings on the gear selector may be damaged or worn. Rubber covers are positioned around the points of articulation of the gear system in order to ensure that it is fluid. They perform the same function to cartilage in your knees so it's crucial that they remain healthy and supple.
It's not unusual for them to wear out over time, however there are some ways to prolong their life. First, you should avoid using the gear selector during extremely cold weather. The cables for controlling the gear can freeze and break. You should also replace the bushings with premium quality ones, such as those from First Line.
These bushings are a critical part of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you find that yours is worn out, it's a good idea to visit an auto repair shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the correct parts to repair your gear selection apparatus. They can also offer various other services like maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn the key in the ignition and hear nothing but a click then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through an natural process that causes them to die prematurely. This is because the negative plates inside the battery in your car begin to become coated by sulfate crystals.
A dead battery could cause you to lose electrical power within your vehicle which can cause the radio or the electric windows to malfunction. If your car has been having problems getting started in cold weather, it is an indication that it is time for an upgrade to your battery.
It's possible that the problem is not an issue with your battery, but rather an issue with the charging system. A mechanic's check to verify that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are all working correctly can resolve this problem.
Another common repair for a key in the automotive is an ignition key that has stopped working properly. The key fob is a tiny device that connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system can be confused or stop communicating if it becomes wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.
Follow the directions in the owner's guide to reset a lost keyfob. Depending on the vehicle it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronics on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix your fob, it could need to be professionally programmed and will require an expert technician. However, it's still worth attempting these steps before deciding to pay for a new device.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys include an embedded transponder chip in them. It transmits signals to a receiver within the ignition when they are inserted. This signal tells an immobilizer whether the key is in the right place for the car to begin. In the 1990s, car theft became an issue. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system for security and insurance reasons.
If you own a newer car, the only way to replace your key could be through the dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car prior to you leave. This number is usually found on the dashboard, the door jamb or in the owner's guide.
Bring your current working key along to a participating AutoZone store, and an associate will employ an instrument to trace the contours of the key blank to precisely replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on the spot by a cutting machine that is precise. If your key is a blade-style, a key fob, or has a hefty grey or black head, it'll require programming to your specific car before it can be used to start the engine.