Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all had this experience when the car's key doesn't engage in the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient moments, like when you're loading your trunk with groceries or returning to home from work.
There are many different solutions that will get you back on your way. Here are some of the most common key issues with cars and their solutions:
Broken or bent key
A bent key is the most frequent reason why a car owner is unable to start their vehicle. This can be fixed by simply straightening the key. It might sound easy but it's important to do it with care. The key is very thin and can break if bent even a little.
You will need a stable work surface and a pair pliers to accomplish this. Pick up one end of the key using the pliers and bend it until it is straight. This should be done on a flat surface, or in a vise. You can then place it in the lock to see if it changes.
If not, you may need to have a new one made. This will save you from needing to call a locksmith and can ensure that your key works.
Keep an extra key in your pocket so you don't have a way to enter your vehicle if it breaks.
If you're having difficulty inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying some grease to it. This will allow it to move through the cylinder, and will prevent it from getting stuck. You can use graphite as a spray lubricant. If you are using a spray, be sure to attach the plastic tubing that came with it for more precise application. This will also stop water from destroying your device.
Pins that are snuck or springs
A pin (also known as a roll pin or spring) can sometimes get stuck. A pin is a small 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends that are used to connect two components of machines. In the majority of instances, you can take out pins by pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench.
If you own an older car that uses microchip keys, it is possible that the key will need to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This can be a simple or complicated depending on the manufacturer and car.
Contact us for assistance with your automotive locks or keys! We can repair, replace, or program virtually any car key.
Selector for gears
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 result in serious vehicle damage if continue driving. This could be a sign that your transmission is experiencing more serious problems, which are costly to fix.
Luckily, most times, this issue can be easily fixed. The cable end that is attached to the lever could snap or break off. The mechanic can fix this within a couple of minutes.
In some instances the gear selector bushing could become damaged or worn out. These are rubber coverings that go around joints within the gear system, allowing it move more smoothly. These covers work similarly to the cartilage that you have in your joints, which is why they need to be flexible and healthy.
It's not unusual for them to wear out in time, but there are some ways to extend their life. The first is to avoid using the gear selector in extremely cold temperatures. The gear control cables could freeze and crack. You should also replace your bushings, like ones made by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings form an essential element of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you notice yours is damaged, you should visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the right parts to restore the gear selection system. They also offer many other services, including maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn on your key in the ignition and you hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. The majority of batteries last between three and five years and as they age they undergo a natural process that causes them to die early. This is due to the negative plates inside the battery of your car will begin to become coated with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery can cause your vehicle to lose power, which can result in the radio or electric window becoming unresponsive. If your car has been having problems starting in cold weather, it is an indication that it is time for a new battery.
It's possible that your problem is not an unresponsive battery but a malfunction in the charging system. Having your mechanic check to ensure that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are all working properly could solve this issue.
A key fob that is not functioning properly is another common automotive key repair. The key fob connects to the computer in your car, and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. The system could become confused or stop communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed extreme temperatures or is wet.
Follow the steps in your owner's guide to reset the keyfob that was lost. Based on the model it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing lock and key repair near me a particular sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix your device, it could require professional programming which requires the help of technicians. It's worth trying these simple methods before you buy the new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys include an embedded transponder chip in them that sends signals to a receiver inside the ignition when it is inserted. The signal informs an immobilizer whether the key is in the right place to allow the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major issue. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system due to security and insurance reasons.
If you have a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your keys is at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car prior to you leave. It is located on the front of the dashboard or door jamb in your owner's manual.
Bring your current working key along to an participating AutoZone store and an associate will employ a machine to trace the contours of your key blank to accurately replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on-site by a cutting machine that is precise. If your key is equipped with an edge, a fob or a large head that is grey or black it will need to be programmed for your car before you can start the motor.