Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all been there - the car key won't engage the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, like when you're filling your car with groceries or on your way home from work.
There are many different solutions to get you back on your way. Here are some common automotive key problems and their solutions:
Broken or bent key
The most frequent reason the owner of a car is unable to start their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is a simple fix. This may seem simple however, you need to be careful. The key is very thin and bending it just a little can cause it to break.
You'll need a sturdy work surface and a pair of pliers to accomplish this. Pick up one end of the key using the pliers and bend it until it is straight. This is best done on a flat surface, or in a vise. Then, you can put it into the lock to see if it turns.
If not, you may need to get a new one made. This will prevent 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 you don't end up without a way into your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.
If you are experiencing issues with a broken or bent key, try applying some grease on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will allow it to move through the cylinder and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use a spray lubricant or graphite powder. If using a spray, ensure you attach the plastic tubing included with it for a more precise application. This will also help prevent water from destroying your key.
Pins that are snuck or springs
A pin (also known as a roll pin or spring) can get stuck. Pins are a tiny piece of steel that measures between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long and has hollow ends. It is used to connect two components of an equipment. In the majority of cases, you can remove a nut by pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.
If you have an older car that uses microchip keys it is likely that 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 program nearly any key for your vehicle.
Gear Selector
If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, it's important to get it checked by an expert mechanic immediately. It's a safety issue and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This issue could also indicate bigger problems with the transmission itself, which can be costly to repair.
Fortunately, the majority of the time this problem can be easily fixed. Most of the time, the cable end that is attached to the lever may snap or become disconnected. The mechanic can fix this in a few minutes.
In certain instances, the bushings on the gear selector might be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that go around articulation points within the gear system to help it shift more smoothly. They work in a similar manner to cartilage in your knees, so it's important that they remain in good shape and soft.
It is not uncommon for them to degrade in time, but there are some things you can do to extend their life. It is best to avoid the gear selection in very cold temperatures. This is because the cables that control the gear are prone to freezing and cracking. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, such as ones made by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings form an important element of your gear selector, and should not go unnoticed. If you notice that yours is damaged, you should visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help you locate the right parts to restore your gear selector device. They can also offer a variety of other services such as maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn the key in the ignition and you hear nothing but a click then your battery is dead. Most batteries last between three and five years, and as they age they undergo a natural process that causes them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will start to become coated with sulfate crystal deposits.
A dead battery may cause the loss of the electrical power in your vehicle which can cause the radio or the electric windows to malfunction. If your car is experiencing problems beginning in cold weather, it is an indication that it's time to get an upgrade to your battery.
It's possible that your problem is not an issue with your battery, but rather a malfunction in the charging system. Having your mechanic check to make sure that the serpentine belt, alternator and battery cables are all functioning properly can solve this issue.
Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is an ignition key that isn't working properly. The key fob is connected to the 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 if it is exposed to extreme temperatures or gets wet.
Follow the steps in the owner's manual to reset the keyfob that was lost. Depending on the type of vehicle it will require opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix your fob, it may require professional programming by an expert technician. However, broken key repair 's still worthwhile to try these easy steps before you decide to pay for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder that when it is inserted into the ignition, sends out a signal. The signal is sent to an immobilizer to determine whether the key is in the right place for the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft became a major issue. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system for safety and insurance reasons.
If you have a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your keys could be through a dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle before you leave. This can be found on the dashboard's front or door jamb in the owner's manual.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member will make use of a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on-site by a cutting machine that is precise. If your key has a blade, a fob or a thick head that is grey or black, it will need to be programmed to your car before you can use it to start the motor.