Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all been there the car keys won't turn on the ignition. It can occur at the most inconvenient time, such as when you're filling your trunk full of groceries or driving home from work.
There are key fob repairs that will help you get back on your way. Here are a few common automotive key repair issues and possible solutions:
Broken or bent keys
The most frequent reason an owner of a car cannot start their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is an easy fix. It may appear simple but be cautious. The key is very thin and may break if you bend it even a little.
To do this, you'll need a stable workspace, and an plier. Hold the key on one end with the pliers, and bend it until it is straight. This should be done on a flat surface or in a vise. Then, you can put it inside the lock to see if it changes.
If not, you could require a new one made. You will not have to contact a locksmith and your existing key will work.
Keep an extra key in your pocket to ensure you don't have access to your vehicle if yours breaks.
If you are experiencing issues with a broken or bent key, try applying some grease on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can apply graphite or spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray for a more precise application. This will also help to stop moisture from ruining your key.
Spring pins and springs with pins
A pin (also known as a roll pin or spring) may become stuck. Pins are a small piece of steel that measures between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long, with hollow ends. It is used to connect two parts of an equipment. In the majority of instances, it is possible to remove a pin by simply pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.
If you have a newer car that has an electronic key with a microchip in it, there is an opportunity for the key to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This process is different based on the model of car and the manufacturer.
Contact us for assistance with your car locks or keys! We can repair, replace, or program virtually any car key.
Gear selector
If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, it's crucial to get it checked by a mechanic right away. This is a safety concern and could result in serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. This could be a sign that your transmission system is having bigger problems, which are costly to repair.
Luckily, most of the time this problem can be easily fixed. The most common reason the gear selector can get stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped off or disconnected from the lever itself. This is a simple fix and the mechanic can usually fix it within a few minutes.
In some cases the bushing of the gear selector could be damaged or worn. Rubber covers are positioned around the articulation points of the gear system in order to make it more fluid. They work in a similar manner as cartilage in your knees, so it's crucial that they remain healthy and flexible.
It's not unusual for them to wear out in time, but there are a few things you can do to extend their life. It is best to avoid the gear selection in very cold temperatures. The gear control cables could freeze and crack. You should also replace the bushings using premium quality ones, such as the ones from First Line.
These bushings are an important part of your gear selector, and should not go unnoticed. 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. These experts can help find the right parts to fix your gear selection apparatus. They can also provide you with many other services, including transmission service and maintenance.
Dead battery
If you turn your key into the ignition and you hear nothing other than a click, your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo natural processes that cause them to die early. This is due to the negative plates inside your car battery will start to be coated with crystals of sulfate.
A dead battery can also cause the loss of electrical power within your vehicle and cause the radio or electric windows to fail. If your car is having problems beginning in cold weather, this is a good sign that it's time for a new battery.
Sometimes, your issue might not be caused by a dead battery, but an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. Your mechanic should ensure that the serpentine belt, alternator and battery cables are working properly could solve this issue.
Another common automotive key repair is an ignition key that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob is a tiny device that connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and accessory systems. The system may become confused or cease communicating with your vehicle if it is exposed to extreme temperatures or is wet.
Follow the instructions in the owner's guide to reset the keyfob that was lost. Based on the model it will require 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 may need to professionally programmed which will require the services of a technician. But it's still worth trying these simple steps before you decide to pay for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder, which when it is inserted into the ignition, sends out an indication. The signal is sent to an immobilizer to determine that the key is right to allow the car to start. In the 1990s, theft of vehicles became an issue that many manufacturers installed this transponder security system into their vehicles for security and insurance purposes.
If you own a brand new vehicle, the only way to replace your keys is to go to the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you visit make a note of the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). You can find this number on the dashboard, the door jamb or in the owner's manual.
Bring your working key to an AutoZone participating store. A representative will use a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key in order to precisely duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on-site using a precision cutting machine. If your key is blade type, a key fob, or has a hefty grey or black head on it, it'll need to be programmed to the specific car you own before it can be used to start the engine.