Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all been there: your car keys won't turn on the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're filling your trunk with groceries or when you're returning home from work.
Instead of car key fob repairs There are many options to get you back on the road. Here are a few common automotive key repair problems and possible solutions:
Broken or bent key
The most frequent reason a car owner cannot begin their vehicle is a bent key. This can be repaired by simply bending the key. This might seem easy but be cautious. The key is very thin and may break if bent even a little.
You'll need a solid work surface and a pair of pliers for this. Pick up one end of the key using the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on a flat surface or in a vice. Then, you can put it in the lock to see whether it turns.
If not, you may need to have a new key made. This will save you from needing to call a locksmith and can ensure that your key works.
It's a good idea keep a spare key in your pocket, so that you don't find yourself without an entry point into your vehicle in the event of a broken key.
If you're having issues with a broken or bent key, try applying some lubrication on it before inserting it into the lock. This will allow it move more easily through the cylinder and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can apply graphite or spray lubricant. If you are using a spray, ensure you attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure an easier application. This will also help to prevent moisture from ruining your key.
Spring pins and springs with pins
Sometimes, a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring may get stuck. Pins are small 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends that are used to connect two parts of machines. In most cases, you can remove a nut by pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.
If you have a newer vehicle that is equipped with an electronic key with a microchip inside, there is an opportunity for the key to be programmed to work with your car. This process can be simple or difficult depending on the manufacturer and car.
Contact us for assistance with your car keys or locks! We can repair, replace, or program nearly any key for your vehicle.
Gear Selector
It's important to get your car to a mechanic as quickly as you can when the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety concern and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. It could also be a sign that the transmission system is having bigger issues, which can be costly to fix.
Most of the time the issue is fixable. Most of the time, the cable end that is attached to the lever may snap or come uncoupled. The mechanic can fix this in a few minutes.
In some cases, however, the gear selector bushing may get damaged or worn out. The rubber covers are put around the articulation points of the gear system in order to ensure that it is fluid. These covers function similar to cartilage joints, and therefore must be healthy and flexible.
You can extend their life by doing a few simple things. It is best to avoid the gear selection in very cold temperatures. The gear control cables can freeze and crack. It is recommended to replace the bushings with high quality ones, like the ones from First Line.
These bushings are an essential component of your gear selector, and should not go unnoticed. If you notice yours is worn out, you should visit an auto repair shop specializing in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the correct parts to repair the gear selection system. They also provide many other services, including transmission maintenance and service.
Dead battery
If you turn your key into the ignition and you hear nothing except a click, your battery is dead. The average battery lasts between three and five years, and as they age, they undergo an natural process that causes them to end up dying early. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be covered with sulfate crystalline deposits.
A dead battery could cause your car to lose electrical power, which could lead to the radio or electric window malfunctioning. If your car has been having problems beginning in cold weather, it is a good sign that it is time for an upgrade to your battery.
It is possible that your issue is not due to an issue with your battery, but rather a malfunction in the charging system. This issue can be solved by having your mechanic check that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all functioning properly.
Another common automotive key repair is a key fob that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob is connected to the computer in your car and relays signals as well as commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system may become confused or stop communicating with your car when it is exposed to extreme temperatures or is wet.
Follow the steps in the owner's guide to reset a lost keyfob. Depending on the model of your car, you may need to open and close the doors, turn lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or even open and shut the windows. If this doesn't fix your fob it may need to professionally programmed which will require the services of a technician. Try these easy techniques before purchasing a new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder that when inserted into ignition, sends out a signal. This signal tells the immobilizer on the car if the key is the right one to be used for starting. In the 1990s, car theft became an issue. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system to ensure safety and insurance reasons.
If you have a newer car, the only way to replace your key may be at the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Before you go note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number can be found on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in an owner's manual.
Bring your current working key along to a participating AutoZone store and a representative will employ a machine to trace the contours of the key blank to accurately duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on the spot with a precise cutting machine. If your key is a blade-style or a key fob or has a large black or grey head, it'll need to be programmed to the specific car you own before it can be used to start the engine.