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, like when you're filling your trunk with groceries, or on your way to home from work.
There are many different solutions that can get you back on your way. Here are some common automotive key repair problems and solutions for them:
Broken or bent keys
The most common reason why an owner of a car cannot start their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is a simple fix. It might sound easy however it is crucial to do it with care. The key is very thin and bending it just small enough could cause it to break.
To accomplish this, you'll require a stable workspace, and pliers. Grab the key at one end with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface, or in a vise. Then, you can place it inside the lock to see if it will turn.
If not, you may need to have a new key made. You will not need to call a locksmith and your key will work.
It's a good idea keep a spare in your pocket, so 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 bent or broken key, try applying some lubrication on it before inserting it into the lock. This will allow it move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. It is possible to use a spray lubricant or graphite powder. If you're using a spray ensure you attach the plastic tubing that came with it for more precise application. This will also help prevent moisture from ruining your key.
Spring pins and springs that are stuck
A pin (also known as a roll pin, or a spring) may get stuck. Pins are a tiny 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends, which are used to connect two components of a machine. In the majority of cases, you can remove pins by pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.
If you own a newer car that uses keys with microchips inside, there is a chance the key needs to be programmed to work with your car. This process is different based on the car and manufacturer.
If you require assistance with your automotive keys or locks, give us call! We can repair, replace or program nearly any key for your vehicle.
Selector for gears
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 concern and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. It could also be a sign that the transmission system is having bigger problems that are expensive to repair.
Fortunately, the majority times, this issue can be easily fixed. Most often, the cable that is connected to the lever can snap or come uncoupled. This is a simple fix, and a mechanic should be able to fix it in a couple of minutes.
In some cases the bushing of the gear selector might be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that go around joints within the gear system to aid in making it move more smoothly. These covers function similar to the cartilage in your joints, and therefore require to be healthy and flexible.
It is not uncommon for them to wear out over time, but there are a few ways to extend their lifespan. The first is to avoid using the gear selector in very cold weather. This is because the cables that control the gear tend to freeze and cracking. It is recommended to replace the bushings using premium quality ones, such as those from First Line.
These bushings are an essential part of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you notice that yours is worn out you must visit an auto repair shop specializing in Land Rover repairs. They will help you locate the ideal parts to fix your gear selector apparatus. They also provide a variety of other services, including transmission maintenance and service.
Dead battery
If you turn your key in the ignition and you hear nothing except a click, your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo an natural process that causes them to die early. This is because the negative plates of your car battery will start to become coated by sulfate crystals.
A dead battery can cause your vehicle to lose power, which can result in the radio or electric window not working properly. If your car is having problems beginning in cold weather, this could be an indication that it's time to get an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes, your issue might not be caused by a dead battery, but rather a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. This problem can be resolved by having your mechanic verify that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are all functioning properly.
A key fob that's not working properly is another common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob connects to the computer in your vehicle, and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system may become confused or stop communicating with your car if it is exposed to harsh temperatures or gets wet.
Follow g28carkeys in the owner's manual to reset a lost keyfob. Depending on your vehicle, you may need to open and close the doors, turn the lights and other electronic devices on and off, press a certain sequence of buttons, or close and open the windows. If this doesn't fix your fob, it could need to be professionally programmed and will require an expert technician. Try these easy techniques before buying an entirely new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder chip built into them that transmits an electronic signal to a receiver inside the ignition when it is inserted. This signal informs the immobilizer inside the car whether the key is the correct one to allow it to start. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became an issue that the majority of manufacturers installed this transponder security system into their vehicles for safety and insurance purposes.
If you have a newer vehicle, the only option to change your keys is to visit the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle before you leave. This can be found on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in your owner's manual.
Bring your current working key along to an participating AutoZone store and a representative will use machines to trace the contours of your key blank to precisely replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with an exact cutting machine on site. If your key has an edge, a fob, or a thick grey/black head it will need to be programmed for your vehicle before you can start the motor.