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 the ignition. It can occur at the worst moment, for instance, when you're filling your trunk full of groceries or heading home from work.
There are a variety of solutions that will bring you back on the way. Here are a few of the most common car key repair issues and their possible solutions:
Broken or bent key
A bent key is the most frequent reason why a car key fob repair service owner is unable to start their car. It can be fixed by simply straightening the key. This may sound simple however it is crucial to do it carefully. The key is very thin, and bending it even one degree can cause it to break.
You'll need a solid work surface and a pair of pliers to do this. Grab one end of the key using the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on an even surface or in a vice. You can then put it in the lock to see if it turns.
If not, you could need to have a new one made. You will not need to call a locksmith and your key will still function.
Keep a spare key in your pocket so you don't have a way to enter your vehicle if yours is damaged.
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 stop it from getting stuck. You can use a spray graphite or lubricant. If you're using a spray ensure you attach the plastic tubing that came with it for more precise application. This will also stop water from destroying your important.
Pins that are snuck or springs
A pin (also known as a roll pin, or a spring) can become stuck. Pins are small 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends that are used to connect two components of machines. In most instances, you can take out pins by pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.
If you own an older car that uses microchip keys it is possible that the key will need to be programmed in order to function with your car. This procedure can be easy or difficult depending on the car's manufacturer and model.
If you require assistance with your keys for your vehicle or locks, give us a call! We can repair, replace or programme nearly any key for your vehicle.
Gear Selector
It's crucial to take your vehicle key repairs to a mechanic as fast as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a safety issue and you could cause serious vehicle damage if continue driving. This problem is also a sign of larger issues with the transmission itself, which could be expensive to fix.
Most times this issue is easily fixable. The most frequent reason the gear selector could 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 certain instances the gear selector bushing could be damaged or worn out. Rubber covers are positioned around the points of articulation of the gear system in order to ensure that it is fluid. These rubber covers function similarly to the cartilage in your joints, so they require to be healthy and flexible.
It's not uncommon for them to degrade in time, but there are a few things you can do to extend their life. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector in extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables that control the gear tend to freeze and cracking. You should also replace the bushings with premium quality ones, like the ones from First Line.
These bushings are a critical component of your gear selector and should not be overlooked. If you notice that yours is damaged you must visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the right parts to restore your gear selection device. They also provide many other services, including maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you switch the ignition key but hear only a click, then 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 the battery in your car begin to become coated with crystals of sulfate.
A dead battery could cause your car to lose electrical power, which could cause the radio to stop working or electric window malfunctioning. If your car has been experiencing problems starting in cold weather, this could be a good sign that it's time for an upgrade to your battery.
It is possible that your issue is not caused Near By an issue with your battery, but rather a malfunction in the charging system. This issue can be fixed by having your mechanic check that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables all work correctly.
Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is the 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 accessory systems. The system could become confused or stop communicating if it becomes wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.
You can usually reset a lost key fob by following the steps in your owner's manual. Based on the vehicle you have it may be necessary to open and close the doors, turn lights and other electronic devices off and on, press a certain sequence of buttons, or shut and open the windows. If this doesn't fix your fob, it could need to be professionally programmed by an expert technician. But it's still worth attempting these steps before you decide to shell out for a new device.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with an embedded transponder chip in them that transmits a signal to a receiver inside the ignition when it is inserted. This signal informs the immobilizer on the car if the key repair shop near me is the correct one to allow it to start. In the 1990s, theft of vehicles became such an issue that many manufacturers installed this transponder security system into their vehicles for security and insurance reasons.
If you have a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your keys is at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you visit, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). It is located on the front of the dashboard or door key repair near me jamb in the owner's manual.
Bring your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key in order to precisely replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site by a cutting machine that is precise. If the key you have is a blade style or key fob or has a large grey or black head, it'll need to be programmed to your specific car before it can be used to start the engine.