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 happens at the most inconvenient times, like when you're filling your trunk with groceries, or when you're returning home from work.
Instead of panicking There are many solutions to get back on the road. Here are some common automotive key repair problems and possible solutions:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most common reason why car owners are unable to start their vehicle. Straightening the key is a simple fix. This might seem easy but be cautious. The key is thin and can break if bent even slightly.
To accomplish this, you'll need an area that is stable, as well as pliers. Take one end of the key with the pliers, and then bend it back until it is straight. It is best to do this on an even surface or in a vice. Then, you can put it inside the lock to see if it turns.
If not, it may be time to get a new key cut. This will prevent you from having to contact a locksmith and will ensure your key will function.
It's a good idea keep a spare key in your pocket so that you don't end up without an entry point into your vehicle in the event of a broken key.
If you have trouble inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying some grease to it. This will allow it to move easier through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray to get the most precise application. This will also stop moisture from damaging your key.
Spring pins and springs with pins
A pin (also called a roll pin or spring) can sometimes become stuck. A pin is a small 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends used to connect two parts of machines. In the majority of cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.
If you have an older vehicle that has a microchip key it is likely that the key needs to be programmed in order to function with your mobile car key repair. This process can be simple or complicated depending on the car key fob repair near me's model and manufacturer.
If you need help with your keys for your vehicle or locks, give us call! We can repair, replace or program nearly any key for your vehicle.
Gear Selector
It is essential to take your vehicle to a mechanic as fast as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety concern and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This could be a sign that the transmission system is having bigger problems, which are costly to repair.
Fortunately, the majority of the time, this issue can be easily fixed. The most common reason the gear selector could get stuck is that one of the cable ends has snapped or disconnected from the lever itself. This is a simple fix and the mechanic can usually make it within a few minutes.
In some instances, the bushings of the gear selector may be damaged or worn. These are rubber coverings that go around articulation points within the gear system to help it shift more fluidly. They work in a similar manner as cartilage in your knees so it's important that they stay healthy and supple.
It's not uncommon for them to wear out over time, but there are some things you can do to prolong their life. The first is to avoid using the gear selector during extremely cold temperatures. This is because the gear control cables are often prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace the bushings with high 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 find that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to visit an auto repair shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the right parts to fix the gear selection system. They can also provide you with various other services, including maintenance and repair car key remote of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn on your key in the ignition but you don't hear anything but a click, then your battery is dead. The average battery lasts between three and five years, and as they get older, they undergo a natural process that causes them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will start to become coated with sulfate crystal deposits.
A dead battery may also cause your mobile car key repair to lose power, which can lead to the radio or electric window not working properly. If you've been having difficulties starting your car in cold weather, it could be a sign you require a new battery.
It's possible that the issue is not caused by an unresponsive battery but an issue with the charging system. Having your mechanic check to verify that the serpentine belt, alternator, and battery cables are working correctly can resolve this issue.
A key fob that is not functioning properly is a common issue with automotive keys. The key fob is a tiny device that connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and the accessory systems. This system may be confused or stop communicating if it gets wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.
It is possible to reset the lost key fob following the instructions provided in your owner's manual. Depending on the vehicle it will require opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronics on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this does not fix your device, it could require professional programming which will require the services of an expert. It's worth trying these simple methods before you buy an entirely new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder chip embedded in them that transmits signals to a receiver in the ignition when it is inserted. The signal is sent to an immobilizer to determine if the key is correct for the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft became a major issue. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system for safety and insurance reasons.
If you have a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your keys is to go to the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car remote key repair prior to you leave. This can be found on the front of the dashboard or door jamb in your 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 to precisely replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key repair service with an exact cutting machine on site. If your key is blade type, a key fob, or has a hefty black or grey head on it, it'll have to be programmed to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.