Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all been there - the car key won't engage in the ignition. It could happen at the worst possible time, such as when you're filling your car with groceries or returning home from work.
Rather than panic, there are several different solutions to get back on the road. Here are some common automotive key repair issues and solutions for them:
Broken or bent keys
The most frequent reason a car owner cannot start their car is a bent key. This can be easily fixed by simply straightening the key. This may seem simple but be cautious. The key is very thin and bending it just small enough could cause it to break.
To accomplish this, you will need an area with a solid foundation, as well as a pair of pliers. Grab the key at one end with the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface or in a vise. Then, you can place it in the lock to determine if it will turn.
If not, it may be time to get a new key cut. This will prevent you from needing to call a locksmith, and can ensure that your key will work.
It's a good idea to keep a spare in your pocket so that you don't find yourself without access to your vehicle in the event of a lost key.
If you're having issues with a bent or broken key, try putting some lubrication on it before trying to insert it into the lock. This will allow it move more easily through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. It is possible to use a spray graphite powder or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray to ensure an even more precise application. This will also help stop moisture from ruining your key.
Pins that are snuck or springs
A pin (also called a roll pin or a spring) may become stuck. Pins are a small piece of metal that measures between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long, with hollow ends. It is used to connect two pieces of a machine. In most instances, you can take out pins by simply pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench.
If you own an older car that is equipped with a microchip key, it is possible that the key needs to be programmed to work with your car. This can be a simple or difficult depending on the car's model and manufacturer.
If you need assistance with your keys for your vehicle or locks, give us call! We can repair, replace or programme almost any vehicle key.
Selector for gears
If your car's gear selector gets stuck in park mode, you need to bring it to a mechanic right away. It's a security issue, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This issue can also be a sign of larger issues with the transmission itself, which could be expensive to fix.
Luckily, most of the time this problem can be easily fixed. The most common reason the gear selector could be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped off or become uncoupled from the lever itself. The mechanic can repair this issue in a matter of minutes.
In certain instances, the bushing of the gear selector may be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that go around articulation points in the gear system to help it move more easily. These covers work similarly to the cartilage that you have in your joints, so they require to be healthy and flexible.
It's not unusual for them to wear out over time, however there are a few things you can do to extend their life. First, you should avoid using the gear selector in extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables controlling the gear are prone to freezing and cracking. It is recommended to replace the bushings with high quality ones, such as the ones from First Line.
These bushings form an important part of your gear selector, and should not go unnoticed. If you notice yours is damaged, you should visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you in finding the right parts to restore the gear selection system. They also provide various other services, including transmission maintenance and service.
Dead battery
If you turn the ignition key and hear only a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through an natural process that causes them to die prematurely. mobile key repair is because the negative plates in the battery of your car will begin to be coated with crystals of sulfate.
A dead battery may cause the loss of electrical power within your vehicle which can cause the radio or electric windows to fail. If your car is having problems beginning in cold weather, it is an indication that it's time for a new battery.
Sometimes, your issue might not be caused by a dead battery, but a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. Having mobile key repair to ensure that the serpentine belt, alternator and battery cables are working correctly can resolve this problem.
A key fob that is not functioning properly is a common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob is connected to the computer in your car and relays signals as well as commands between the engine and the accessory systems. This system can become confused or stop communicating if it gets submerged or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
You can usually reset the lost key fob following the steps in the owner's guide. Depending on the type of 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 does not fix your device, it could require professional programming that will require the assistance of a technician. Try these easy techniques before buying an entirely new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys have an embedded transponder chip in them that sends signals to a receiver within the ignition when they are inserted. This signal informs the immobilizer on the car if it is the right one for it to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major problem. 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. Before you go there make a note of the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This can be found on the front of the dashboard or door jamb in the owner's manual.
Bring your current key along to an AutoZone store and a representative will use a machine to trace the contours of the key blank to accurately duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using a precise cutting machine onsite. If the key you are using has blade, fob or a thick grey/black head it must be programmed for your vehicle before you can start the motor.