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 on the ignition. It could occur at the worst time, such as when you're filling your trunk with groceries or heading home from work.
Rather than panic instead, there are a variety of solutions to get you back on the road. Here are some common automotive key repair problems and their possible solutions:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most frequent reason why a car owner is unable to start their vehicle. Straightening the key is an easy fix. This may seem simple but be cautious. The key is very thin and could break if you bend it even slightly.
You'll need a solid work surface and a pair of pliers to accomplish this. Take one end of the key using the pliers, and then bend it back until it is straight. This is best done on a flat surface or in a vise. Then, you can put it in the lock to see whether it will turn.
If not, it might be time to get a new key cut. There is no need to call a locksmith and your key will still function.
It's a good idea keep a spare key in your pocket, so that you don't have access to your vehicle in the event of a lost key.
If you are having trouble inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying some lubricant to it. This will allow it to move through the cylinder and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can apply graphite or spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray to get the most precise application. This will also help prevent water from destroying your device.
Spring pins and springs that are stuck
A pin (also known as a roll pin or spring) may become stuck. Pins are small 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends, which are used to connect 2 parts of machines. In key fob repair near me , you can remove pins by pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.
If you have a newer car that has a key with a microchip in it, there's an opportunity that the key has to be programmed to work with your car. This procedure can differ based on the manufacturer and car.
If you require assistance with your car keys or locks give us a call! We can repair, replace, or program nearly any key for your vehicle.
Gear selector
If your car's gear selector gets stuck in park mode, you need to take it to a mechanic right away. This is a safety issue and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This could also indicate more serious issues with the transmission system itself, which can be costly to repair.
Fortunately, the majority times, this issue is easily fixable. Most often, the cable that is connected to the lever may snap or come uncoupled. The mechanic can repair this issue in a matter of minutes.
In certain instances the gear selector bushing may become damaged or worn out. Rubber covers are placed around the articulation points of the gear system in order to ensure that it is fluid. These rubber covers function similarly to cartilage joints, and therefore require to be healthy and flexible.
You can extend their life by doing a few simple things. First, you should avoid using the gear selector during extremely cold temperatures. The cables that control the gears can freeze and break. car key fob repair should also replace the bushings with high quality ones, such as the ones from First Line.
These bushings are an essential component of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to visit an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help you find the perfect parts to restore the gear selector mechanism. They can also provide you with many other services, like maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn your key into the ignition but you don't hear anything other than a click, your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through a natural process which causes them to die early. This is because the negative plates inside the battery of your car will begin to become coated with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery can also cause the loss of electrical power within your vehicle and cause the radio or the electric windows to stop working. If you've had difficulty starting your car during cold weather, this could be a sign that you require a new battery.
It's possible that the issue is not caused by an issue with your battery, but rather an issue with the charging system. A mechanic's check to ensure that the serpentine belt, alternator, and battery cables are all working properly could solve this issue.
A key fob that's not working properly is another common issue with automotive keys. The key fob is a tiny unit that connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and the accessory systems. The system could become confused or stop communicating if it is wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.
It is possible to reset the lost key fob following the directions in your owner's manual. Depending on your vehicle, you may need to open and close the doors, turn lights and other electronic devices off and on and press a particular sequence of buttons, or close and open the windows. If this doesn't solve your fob, it might require professional programming, which will require a special technician. Try these easy techniques before purchasing a new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder that when inserted into ignition, transmits an indication. This signal tells the immobilizer in the car if the key is the correct one to allow it to start. In the 1990s, car theft became a major problem. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system due to safety and insurance reasons.
If you have a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your keys could be at the dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Before you go there note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). It is located on the dashboard's front, door jamb, or in the owner's manual.
Bring your current working key to an participating AutoZone store and a representative will utilize an instrument to trace the contours of the 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 are using has blade, fob or a large head that is grey or black, it will need to be programmed for your vehicle before you can use it to start the motor.