Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all been there the car keys won't turn on 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 can bring you back on the way. Here are some common automotive key repair problems and solutions for them:
Broken or bent key
A bent key is the most frequent reason a car owner can't start their vehicle. This can be repaired by simply bending the key. It might sound easy but it's important to do this carefully. The key is very thin and could break if bent even slightly.
To do this, you'll require an area with a solid foundation, as well as a pair of pliers. Hold the key on one end with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. This should be done on a flat surface or in a vise. Then, you can put it into the lock to see if it changes.
If not, it might be time to have a new key cut. This will save you from needing to call a locksmith, and can ensure that your key will work.
It's a good idea keep a spare key in your pocket, so that you don't have access to your vehicle in the event of a broken key.
If you have trouble inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying lubricant to it. This will allow it to move easier through the cylinder and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. If you're using a spray ensure that you attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure an easier application. This will also help to keep moisture from damaging your key.
Spring pins and springs that are stuck
Sometimes a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring may become stuck. A pin is a small 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends that are used to connect two components of an equipment. In the majority of cases, you can remove a nut by pulling it off using your fingers or a wrench.
If you own an older car that uses microchip keys it is likely that the key needs to be programmed to work with your car. This procedure can be easy or complex depending on the manufacturer and car.
If you require assistance with your keys for your vehicle or locks, give us call! We can repair or replace every key for your vehicle.
Gear Selector
It's crucial to take your vehicle to a mechanic as quickly as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a security issue and could result in serious vehicle damage if continue driving. This is also a sign of bigger problems in the transmission system itself, which could be costly to repair.
Fortunately, the majority times, this issue can be fixed easily. The most frequent reason the gear selector can get stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped or become uncoupled from the lever itself. The mechanic can repair this issue in a matter of minutes.
In some instances, the bushings on the gear selector might be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that are placed around the articulation points in the gear system, allowing it move more easily. They perform the same function as cartilage in your knees, so it's crucial that they remain healthy and flexible.
You can extend their life by doing a few basic things. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector during extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables controlling the gear 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 are an essential component of your gear selector and
automotive key repair should not be ignored. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to go to an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the right parts to restore your gear selection device. They can also provide various other services, such as transmission service and maintenance.
Dead battery
If you turn your key in the ignition and you hear nothing but a click, then 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 key repair near me battery will begin to be coated with sulfate crystal deposits.
A dead battery may cause you to lose electrical power within your vehicle and cause the radio or electric windows to malfunction. If you've had difficulty starting your car during cold weather this could be a sign you require an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes your problem might not be caused by a dead battery, but rather an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. This problem can be resolved by having your mechanic check that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are working properly.
Another common automotive key repair is an ignition key that isn't working properly. The key fob is a small device that connects to your computer in your vehicle and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. The system may become confused or stop communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed to harsh temperatures or gets wet.
Follow the instructions in the owner's guide to reset the keyfob that was lost. Based on the model, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix your device, it could require professional programming which will require the services of a technician. However, it's still worth attempting these steps before you decide to pay for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with an embedded transponder chip 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 to allow the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major issue. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system to ensure security and insurance reasons.
If you own a brand new vehicle, the only option to replace your keys is at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go,
automotive key repair write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). You can find this number on the dashboard, the door jamb, or in the owner's manual.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on-site using a precision cutting machine. If the key you have is a blade-style or key fob or has a thick grey or black head, it'll require programming to the specific
car remote key repair shop near me you own before it can be used to start the engine.