Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all been there: your car key refuses to turn in the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient moments, like when you're filling your car with groceries or on your way home from work.
Rather than panic instead, there are a variety of options to get you back on the road. Here are a few of the most common automotive key repair problems and possible solutions:
Broken or bent key
A bent key is the most common reason why car owners are unable to start their vehicle. Straightening the key is an easy fix. It may appear simple but be careful. The key is extremely thin and even bending it small enough could cause it to break.
You'll need a solid work surface as well as a pair of pliers to do this. Pick up one end of the key using the pliers, and then bend it back until it is straight. This should be done on a flat surface or in a vise. You can then put it in the lock to see if it turns.
If not, you might need to have a new one made. You will not need to call a locksmith and your key will function.
Keep a spare key in your pocket so you don't have access to your vehicle if yours breaks.
If you have trouble inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying oil to it. This will allow it move through the cylinder and stop it from getting stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. Use the plastic tube that comes with the spray to get a more precise application. This will also help to prevent moisture from ruining your key.
Pins that are snuck or springs
A pin (also known as a roll pin or a spring) may become stuck. Pins are small 2 to 3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends that are used to connect 2 parts of machines. In most cases, you can remove pins by pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.
If you have an older car that uses a microchip key it is possible that the key will need to be programmed to work with your car. This process can vary depending on the car and manufacturer.
Contact us if you require assistance with your vehicle locks or keys! We can repair, replace, or program virtually any car key remote repair key.
Gear selector
If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, it's crucial to take 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 is also a sign of bigger problems with the transmission itself, which can be costly to repair.
Most times the issue is fixable. Most often, the cable end that is attached to the lever may snap or come uncoupled. This is a simple fix, and a mechanic should be able to fix it within a few minutes.
In some cases the bushings on the gear selector could be damaged or worn. Rubber covers are positioned around the articulation points of the gear system to keep it fluid. They perform the same function to cartilage in your knees, so it's crucial to keep them healthy and supple.
It is not uncommon for them to wear out over time, however there are some things you can do to prolong their life. It is best to avoid the gear selection during extremely cold weather. This is because the gear control cables are prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace the bushings using premium quality ones, like the ones from First Line.
These bushings are an important element of your gear selector, and shouldn't be overlooked. If you notice that yours is worn out you must visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the correct parts to repair your gear selection apparatus. They can also offer a variety of other services, including maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn your key into the ignition and hear nothing except a click, your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through an natural process that causes them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will start to be covered with sulfate crystalline deposits.
A dead battery could cause your car to lose electrical power, which can lead to the radio or electric window not working properly. If you have been having trouble starting your car in cold weather, this could be a sign that you require a new battery.
Sometimes, your issue might not be a dead battery, but rather a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. This problem can be resolved by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables all work correctly.
A key fob that's not functioning properly is a common automotive key repair. The key fob connects to the computer in your car key repair cost and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system may become confused or stop communicating with your vehicle if it is exposed to harsh temperatures or gets wet.
It is usually possible to reset the lost key fob by following the directions in the owner's manual. Depending on your vehicle, you may need to open and close the doors, switch lights and other electronic devices off and on by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or open and shut the windows. If this doesn't solve your fob, it might require professional programming by an expert technician. However, it's still worth trying these simple steps before you decide to pay for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys include a transponder chip built into them that transmits a signal to a receiver inside the ignition when it is inserted. This signal tells an immobilizer that the key is right for the car key fob repair to begin. In the 1990s, car theft was a major problem. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system for security and insurance reasons.
If you own a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your key may be through a dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle key repairs before you leave. It is located on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in your owner's manual.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. A representative will make use of a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key to accurately duplicate the original key. The new key repair car - click here for info, will be cut on site using a precision cutting machine. If your key is equipped with a blade, a fob or a large head that is grey or black it must be programmed for your vehicle before you can use it to start the motor.