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 happens at the most inconvenient times, like when you're loading your trunk with groceries or returning to home from work.
Rather than panic, there are several different solutions to get you back on the road. Here are some common automotive key repair issues and possible solutions:
Broken or bent key
The most common reason why the owner of a car is unable to start their car is a bent key. It can be fixed by simply straightening the key. It may appear simple, but you must be careful. The key is very thin and even bending it small enough could cause it to break.
You will need a stable work surface and a pair of pliers to do this. Take one end of the key using the pliers and bend it back until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface or in a vise. After that, you can place it in the lock to test whether it turns.
If not, you may need to get a new one created. You will not have to contact a locksmith and your existing key will work.
It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your pocket, so you don't end up without an entry point into your vehicle in the event of a broken key.
If you're having issues with a bent or broken key, you can try applying grease on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will allow it to move through the cylinder and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite as a spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray to ensure a more precise application. This will also prevent water from destroying your key.
Stuck pins or springs
Sometimes, a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring could get stuck. Pins are a tiny 2 to 3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends used to connect two parts of an equipment. In most instances, it is possible to remove pins by pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.
If you have a newer vehicle that is equipped with a key with a microchip in it, there is an opportunity for the key to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This process can be simple or complex depending on the car's model and manufacturer.
Call us if you need assistance with your automotive keys or locks! We can repair or replace every vehicle key.
Gear Selector
If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, it's crucial to get it checked by an expert mechanic immediately. This is a security issue and could lead to serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. This issue is also a sign of larger issues with the transmission that could be expensive to fix.
Luckily, most of the time, this issue can be fixed easily. The most common reason that the gear selector can get stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped, or disconnected from the lever itself. This is a simple fix, and a mechanic should be able to complete the task within a few minutes.
In some instances, the bushing of the gear selector may be damaged or worn. These are rubber coverings that cover joints within the gear system to help it shift more fluidly. These covers function similar to cartilage joints, so they need to be healthy and flexible.
It's not uncommon for them to wear out in time, but there are a few ways to prolong their life. First, you should avoid using the gear selector during extremely cold weather. The cables that control the gears could freeze and crack. You should also replace your bushings, for instance the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings form an important part of your gear selector, and should not go unnoticed. If you find that yours is worn out you must visit an auto repair shop specializing in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help you locate the right parts to repair your gear selector device. They can also offer various other services, including transmission maintenance and service.
Dead battery
If you switch the ignition key and hear only a click, then your battery is dead. Most batteries last between three and five years and as they age they undergo a natural process that causes them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will start to be covered with sulfate crystal deposits.
A dead battery could cause your vehicle to lose power, which could result in the radio or electric window becoming unresponsive. If your car is experiencing problems starting in cold weather, it is a good sign that it is time for an upgrade to your battery.
It's possible that the issue is not caused by an unresponsive battery but a malfunction in the charging system. A mechanic's check to make sure that the serpentine belt, alternator and battery cables are all functioning properly can solve this issue.
Another common repair for a key in the automotive is a key fob that isn't working properly. The key fob is a tiny unit that connects to the vehicle's computer and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. This system may be confused or stop communicating if it becomes wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
It is possible to reset the lost key fob following the instructions provided in the owner's manual. Depending on the vehicle, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronics on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix your device, it could need to professionally programmed which will require the services of an expert. But it's still worth attempting these steps before you decide to shell out for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys include a transponder chip built into them. It transmits an electronic signal to a receiver within the ignition when they are inserted. The signal informs the immobilizer in the car whether the key is the right one to be used for starting. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became such an issue that the majority of manufacturers put this transponder security system in their vehicles for security and insurance purposes.
If you have a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your keys could be through a dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle before you leave. This number is usually found on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in the owner's manual.
Bring your working key to an AutoZone participating store. visit the up coming internet page will make use of a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key in order to accurately duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with a precise cutting machine onsite. If your key has a blade, a fob or a large head that is grey or black, it will need to be programmed for your car before you can use it to start the motor.