Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all had this experience the car key repairs keys won't engage in the ignition. It can occur at the worst moment, like when you're filling your trunk full of groceries or heading home from work.
Instead of panicking, there are several different solutions to get you back on the road. Here are a few common key lock repair near me issues in the automotive industry and their solutions:
Broken or bent key
A bent key is the most common reason why car owners are unable to start their car. This can be repaired by simply bending the key. This may sound simple however it is crucial to do it with care. The key lock repair near me (click through the next page) is extremely thin, and bending it even a little can cause it to break.
To do this, you'll need an area with a solid foundation, as well as pliers. Pick up one end of the key using the pliers and bend it until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface, or in a vise. You can then place it in the lock to see if it turns.
If not, you may need to get a new one created. You will not have to contact a locksmith and your key will still work.
It's a good idea keep a spare key in your pocket, so you don't have a way into your vehicle in the event of a broken key.
If you're having difficulty inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying some lubricant to it. This will enable it move through the cylinder and stop it from getting stuck. It is possible to use a spray lubricant or graphite powder. If you're using a spray ensure that you attach the plastic tubing that came with it for an easier application. This will also help prevent moisture from ruining your key.
Spring pins and springs with pins
A pin (also known as a roll pin, or a spring) may get stuck. A pin is a small 2 to 3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends used to connect two parts of an equipment. In the majority of instances, you can take out pins by simply pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.
If you own an older vehicle that has a microchip key it is possible that the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This can be a simple or difficult depending on the car's manufacturer and model.
If you need help with your keys for your vehicle or locks, give us a call! We can repair, replace, or program nearly any key for your vehicle.
Gear selector
It is essential to take your car to a mechanic as soon as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a security issue and could lead to serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. This problem is also a sign of bigger problems in the transmission system that could be expensive to fix.
Most times the issue is fixable. The cable end that is connected to the lever can 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 gear selector bushing can get damaged or worn out. These are rubber coverings that go around articulation points within the gear system, allowing it shift more fluidly. They perform the same function to cartilage in your knees therefore it is important to ensure that they remain healthy and supple.
It's not uncommon for them to wear out in time, but there are some ways to extend their lifespan. You should avoid the gear selection in extremely cold weather. This is because the cables that control the gear are prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace the bushings with high 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 find that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to visit an auto repair shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you to locate the ideal parts to restore the gear selector mechanism. They can also provide many other services, including maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn the ignition on and hear nothing but a click then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo a natural process which causes 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 may also cause your car to lose power, which could result in the radio or electric window becoming unresponsive. If your car has been having issues starting in cold weather, this could be a good sign that it's time to get an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes your problem might not be due to 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 are working properly.
A key fob that is not functioning properly is a common automotive key repair near me repair. The key fob is connected to your 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.
It is possible to reset the lost key fob following the instructions provided in the owner's manual. Depending on the vehicle it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronic devices on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this does not fix your fob it may require professional programming that will require the assistance of a technician. Try these easy techniques before buying a new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder that when it is inserted into the ignition, sends out a signal. This signal tells the immobilizer on the car whether the key is the right one to be used for starting. In the 1990s, theft of cars became such an issue that many manufacturers fitted this transponder security system in their vehicles to ensure safety and insurance purposes.
If you have a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your keys could be through a dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car prior to you go. This can be found on the dashboard's front or door jamb in the owner's manual.
Bring your current key to an participating AutoZone store, and an associate will utilize an instrument to trace the contours of your blank key to precisely replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with an exact cutting machine on site. If your key is blade style, a key fob, or has a hefty black or grey head, it'll have to be programmed to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.