Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all been there - your car keys won't turn in the ignition. It can occur at the most inconvenient moment, like when you're filling your trunk with groceries or returning home from work.
Instead of panicking, there are several different solutions to get you back on the road. Here are some common car key repair issues and solutions for them:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most common reason a car owner can't start their vehicle. This can be repaired by simply bending the key. This may seem simple, but you must be cautious. The key is very thin and even bending it a little can cause it to break.
You will need a stable work surface as well as a pair of pliers to do this. Hold the key on one end with the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on an even surface or in a vice. You can then put it into the lock to see if it changes.
If not, key fob repairs could be time to get a new key cut. This will save you from having to call a locksmith and will ensure your key will work.
It's a good idea keep a spare 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 broken or bent lock key, try applying some oil to it. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite as a spray lubricant. If using a spray, ensure you attach the plastic tubing included with it for more precise application. This will also help to prevent moisture from ruining your key.
Spring pins and springs with pins
A pin (also known as a roll pin, or a spring) may become stuck. Pins are a small piece of steel that measures between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long with hollow ends. It is used to connect two components of a machine. In the majority of instances, it is possible to remove pins by pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.
If you have a newer car that has keys with microchips in it, there is an opportunity that the key has to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This process can be simple or complicated depending on the manufacturer and car.
Call us if you need assistance with your vehicle keys or locks! We can repair, replace or program almost any vehicle key.
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If your car's gear selector gets stuck in park mode, it's important to take it to a mechanic as soon as you notice it. It's a safety concern and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This problem is also a sign of bigger problems with the transmission that could be costly to repair.
Luckily, most times, this issue can be fixed easily. The most frequent reason the gear selector may be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped, or separated from the lever itself. The mechanic can fix this issue in a matter of minutes.
In certain instances, the bushings on the gear selector may be damaged or worn. Rubber covers are positioned around the articulation points of the gear system in order to keep it fluid. They function in a similar way as cartilage in your knees so it's important that they remain healthy and supple.
It's not uncommon for them to wear out over time, however there are some ways to extend their lifespan. It is best to avoid the gear selection in very cold temperatures. This is because the gear control cables are often prone to freezing and cracking. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, such as the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are an essential component of your gear selector and shouldn't be overlooked. If you notice yours is damaged it is best to visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the perfect parts to restore your gear selector apparatus. They also provide a variety of other services like transmission maintenance and service.
Dead battery
If you turn the ignition on and hear nothing but a click then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo natural processes that cause them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to become coated with sulfate crystal deposits.
A dead battery can cause your vehicle to lose electrical power, which could lead to the radio or electric window malfunctioning. If you've been having difficulty starting your car during cold weather, this could be a sign that you require a new battery.
Sometimes, the issue may not be caused by a dead battery, but a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. This problem can be resolved by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all functioning properly.
A key fob that's not functioning properly is another common automotive key repair. The key fob is a tiny device that connects to the computer in the vehicle and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. The system may become confused or stop communicating with your car when it is exposed to harsh temperatures or gets wet.
You can usually reset a lost key fob by following the directions in the owner's manual. Based on the model it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronics on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix the issue, your device may require professional programming which requires the help of technicians. However, it's still worth attempting these steps before you decide to shell out for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys have an embedded transponder chip in them that transmits a signal to a receiver inside the ignition when inserted. The signal informs an immobilizer whether the key is in the right place for the car to start. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became a problem that most manufacturers put this transponder security system in their vehicles for security and insurance purposes.
If you own a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your keys is to go to the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car before you leave. You can find this number on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in the owner's guide.
Bring your current key along to a participating AutoZone store, and an associate will use an instrument to trace the contours of the key blank to accurately duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site by a cutting machine that is precise. If your key is blade style or key fob or has a hefty black or grey head, it'll need to be programmed to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.