Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all been there: your car key refuses to engage the ignition. It could occur at the worst time, such as when you're filling your trunk with groceries or driving home from work.
There are many solutions that will help you get back on your way. Here are some common key issues in the automotive industry and solutions:
Broken or bent key
The most common 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 sound simple however it is crucial to do it with care. The key is extremely thin and bending it just small enough could cause it to break.
You'll need a sturdy work surface and a pair pliers for this. Take the key at the other end using the pliers, and bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on an even surface or in a vice. After that, you can place it inside the lock to test whether it will turn.
If not, it could be time to get a new key cut. This will save you from having to contact a locksmith and can ensure that your key will work.
Keep a spare key in your pocket so you don't have the ability to get into your vehicle if yours breaks.
If you're having issues with a bent or broken key, you can try applying lubrication on it before inserting it into the lock. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder, and will prevent it from getting stuck. You can apply graphite or spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray to ensure an even more precise application. This will also stop moisture from damaging your key.
Stuck pins or springs
Sometimes, a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring can become stuck. A pin is a small 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends, which are used to connect 2 parts of an equipment. In most cases you can take a nut off by pulling it out using your fingers or the wrench.
If you have a newer car that uses keys with microchips in it, there is a chance the key needs to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This process can vary depending on the car and manufacturer.
Contact us for assistance with your vehicle locks or keys! We can repair, replace or programme virtually any car key.
Gear Selector
It's important to get your car to a mechanic as fast as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a safety issue and could lead to serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This could be a sign that your transmission system is having bigger problems, which are costly to fix.
Luckily, most of the time this problem can be fixed easily. Most often, the cable end that is connected to the lever may snap or break off. The mechanic can repair this within a couple of minutes.
In certain instances the gear selector bushing may get damaged or worn out. Rubber covers are positioned around the joints of the gear system to keep it fluid. These covers work similarly to cartilage joints, so they must be flexible and healthy.
It is not uncommon for them to wear out over time, however there are a few ways to extend their life. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector during extremely cold temperatures. The cables for controlling the gear can freeze and crack. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, like ones made by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are an essential part of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you notice yours is damaged you must visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. They can assist you to find the perfect parts to repair your gear selector apparatus. They also provide many other services, including maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you switch 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 get older, they undergo an natural process that causes them to end up dying early. This is due to the negative plates inside the battery in your car begin to become coated with crystals of sulfate.
A dead battery can also cause the loss of electrical power within your vehicle, causing the radio or the electric windows to fail. If you've had difficulty starting your car during cold weather, it could be a sign that you require a new battery.
Sometimes, visit my website may not be due to a dead battery, but rather an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. A mechanic's check to verify that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all working properly could solve this problem.
Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is the key fob that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob is a small unit that connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and accessory systems. The system may become confused or stop communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed extreme temperatures or is wet.
You can usually reset a lost key fob by following the directions in the owner's guide. Based on the vehicle you have you may have to open and close the doors, turn the lights and other electronic devices off and on and press a particular sequence of buttons, or even close and open the windows. If this doesn't work for your fob, it may need to be professionally programmed, which will require an expert. It's worth trying these simple methods before you buy the new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder that when inserted into ignition, sends out a signal. This signal tells the immobilizer inside the car whether the key is the correct one to be used for starting. 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 brand new vehicle, the only option to replace your keys is to go to the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before key car repair visit make a note of the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in your owner's manual.
Bring your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. A representative will make use of a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key to accurately duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using a precise cutting machine onsite. If your key is a blade-style, a key fob, or has a hefty grey or black head, it will require programming to the specific car you own before it can be used to start the engine.