Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all experienced this the car keys won't turn on the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're filling up your trunk with groceries or on your way home from work.
Instead of panicking There are many solutions to get back on the road. Here are a few common automotive key repair problems and solutions for them:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most frequent reason why a car owner is unable to start their vehicle. This can be easily fixed by simply straightening the key. This might seem easy, but you must be careful. The key is extremely thin and could break if you bend it even a little.
To accomplish car remote key repair , you'll need an area with a solid foundation, as well as an plier. Hold the key on one end with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on the floor or in a vice. You can then place it in the lock to see if it turns.
If not, you may require a new one made. You don't need to call a lock-smith and your key will function.
Keep an extra key in your pocket to ensure you don't have a way to enter your vehicle in the event that your key is damaged.
If you are experiencing issues with a broken or bent key, you can try applying grease on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will enable it move more easily through the cylinder and stop it from getting stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. If you're using a spray be sure to attach the plastic tubing that came with it for a more precise application. This will also help prevent water from destroying your key.
Pins that are snuck or springs
Sometimes, a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring may get stuck. Pins are small 2 to 3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends, which are used to connect 2 parts of machines. In most cases you can take a nut off by pulling it out using your fingers or the wrench.
If you have an older car that is equipped with microchip keys it is possible that the key will need to be programmed to work with your car. This procedure can be easy or complicated depending on the car's model and manufacturer.
If you need help with your automotive keys or locks, give us call! We are able to repair, replace or program almost every key for your vehicle.
Gear Selector
If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, it's crucial to get it checked by an expert mechanic immediately. It's a safety issue, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This problem could also indicate more serious issues with the transmission itself, which can be costly to repair.
Luckily, most times, this issue is easily fixable. Most of the time, the cable that is connected to the lever may snap or come uncoupled. This is a straightforward fix and the mechanic can usually complete the task within a few minutes.
In some cases there are instances where the gear selector bushing can be damaged or worn out. Rubber covers are positioned around the articulation points of the gear system to keep it fluid. These rubber covers function similarly to cartilage joints, which is why they must be healthy and flexible.
You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few easy things. It is best to avoid the gear selection in extremely cold weather. This is because the cables controlling the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace the bushings using premium quality ones, such as the ones from First Line.
These bushings form an essential part of your selection of gears and shouldn't be overlooked. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to go to an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you to locate the right parts to restore your gear selector apparatus. They can also offer various other services, including maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn the key in the ignition but hear only a click, then 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 crystal deposits.
A dead battery may also cause your vehicle to lose power, which can cause the radio to stop working or electric window malfunctioning. If you've had difficulties starting your car in cold weather this could be a sign you require a new battery.
It is possible that your problem is not an issue with your battery, but rather a malfunction in the charging system. This issue can be fixed by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are working correctly.
Key fobs that are not functioning properly is a common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob connects to the computer in your car and relays signals as well as commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system could be confused or stop communicating if it is wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.
It is usually possible to reset the lost key fob by following the instructions provided in the owner's guide. Depending on the vehicle it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your device, it could need to professionally programmed which requires the help of technicians. It's worth trying these simple techniques before purchasing a new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys include a transponder chip built into them that transmits an electronic signal to a receiver within the ignition when they are inserted. The signal is sent to an immobilizer to determine whether the key is in the right place to allow the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft became a major problem. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system due to safety and insurance reasons.
If you have a newer vehicle, the only option to change your keys is to visit the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go there, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the front of the dashboard or door jamb in the owner's manual.
Bring your current key with you to an AutoZone store and a representative will employ machines to trace the contours of the key blank to accurately duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with an exact cutting machine in-store. If the key you have is a blade type or a key fob or has a large black or grey head, it will need to be programmed to your specific car before it can be used to start the engine.