Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all had this experience the car keys won't turn in the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're loading your trunk with groceries or on your way home from work.
Instead of panicking There are many solutions to get back on the road. Here are some of the most common key issues in the automotive industry and solutions:
Broken or bent key
A bent key is the most frequent reason why a car owner is unable to start their vehicle. It can be repaired by simply bending the key. This might seem easy but be careful. The key is very thin, and bending it even one degree can cause it to break.
To do this, you'll require a stable workspace, and a pair of pliers. Grab the key on one end with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on the floor or in a vice. You can then put it into the lock to see if it turns.
If not, you could need to have a new key made. This will save you from having to call a locksmith and will ensure your key will function.
It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your pocket so that you don't find yourself without access to your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.
If you are having trouble inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying lubricant to it. This will allow it to move through the cylinder and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. If you are using a spray, ensure that you attach the plastic tubing that came with it for a more precise application. This will also help stop moisture from ruining your key.
Stuck pins and springs
Sometimes a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring could get stuck. A pin is a small piece of metal that is between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long with hollow ends. It is used to connect two components of an equipment. In most instances, it is possible to remove a pin by simply pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.
If you own a newer vehicle that is equipped with a key with a microchip in it, there's a chance the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your car. This procedure can differ based on the car and manufacturer.
Contact us for assistance with your car keys or locks! We can repair, replace or programme nearly any key for your vehicle.
Gear Selector
It's important to get your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety issue and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This could also be a sign that your transmission system is having bigger problems, which are costly to repair.
Fortunately, the majority of the time, this issue is easily fixable. The cable end that is attached to the lever can snap or become disconnected. The mechanic can fix this in a few more info minutes.
In some cases the bushing of the gear selector could be damaged or worn. Rubber covers are positioned around the joints of the gear system to make it more fluid. These covers function similar to the cartilage in your joints, so they require to be healthy and flexible.
It's not unusual for them to degrade over time, however there are some ways to extend their life. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector in very cold weather. The cables for controlling the gear can freeze and crack. You should also replace your bushings, such as the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality website ones.
These bushings are an essential part of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you find that yours is worn out, it's a great idea to go to an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They will help you locate the ideal parts to restore your gear selector apparatus. They can also offer various other services, such as transmission service and maintenance.
Dead battery
If you turn on your key in the ignition and you hear nothing other than a click, your battery is dead. Most more info batteries last between three and five years, and as they get older, they go through a natural process that causes them to end up dying early. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to become coated with sulfate crystalline deposits.
A dead battery may also cause your vehicle to lose power, which can result in the radio or electric window malfunctioning. If you've had difficulty starting your car during cold weather, it could be a sign that you need an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes your problem might not be caused by a dead battery, but rather a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. Having your mechanic check to ensure that the serpentine belt, alternator, and battery cables are all functioning properly can solve this problem.
A key fob that is not functioning properly is a common car key repair shop automotive key repair. The key fob is a small unit that connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays website commands and signals between the engine and accessory systems. The system could be confused or cease communicating if it becomes submerged or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
You can usually reset a lost key fob by following the directions in the owner's guide. Based on the model it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronics on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your device, it could need to professionally programmed that will require the assistance of technicians. Try these easy methods before you buy an entirely new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder which, when inserted into the ignition, transmits an indication. This signal tells the immobilizer on the car if it is the right one to allow it to start. In the 1990s, theft of cars became such an issue that many manufacturers fitted this transponder security device in their vehicles for security and insurance reasons.
If you have a brand newer car, the only way to replace your key may be through the dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Before you go, 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 working key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member will make use of a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key in order to accurately duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on-site using a precision cutting machine. If the key you are using has a blade, a fob or a large grey/black head it must be programmed for your car before you can start the motor.