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 happens at the most inconvenient moments, like when you're loading your trunk with groceries or when you're 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 in the automotive industry and solutions:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most frequent reason why a car owner is unable to start their car. This can be repaired by simply bending the key. This might seem easy, but you must be cautious. The key is very thin and bending it just one degree can cause it to break.
To accomplish this, you will need a stable workspace, and pliers. Hold the key on one end with the pliers, and bend it until it is straight. This should be done on a flat surface or in a vise. You can then put it inside the lock to see if it changes.
If not, you might require a new one created. There is no have to contact a locksmith and your key will still work.
It's a good idea keep a spare key in your pocket so that you don't end up without access to your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.
If you're having difficulty inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying lubricant to it. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can apply graphite or spray lubricant. If you are using a spray, be sure to attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure an easier application. This will also stop moisture from damaging your important.
Stuck pins or springs
Sometimes a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring can become stuck. A pin is a small 2 to 3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends that are used to connect two components of a machine. In the majority of cases, you can remove a nut by pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.
If you own an older car that uses a microchip key it is likely that the key will need to be programmed in order to function with your car. This process can be simple or complex depending on the manufacturer and car.
If you require assistance with your keys for your vehicle or locks give us a call! We can repair, replace or programme virtually any car key.
Gear Selector
If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, you need to take it to a mechanic as soon as you notice it. It's a security issue, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This issue is also a sign of larger issues in the transmission system itself, which could be costly to repair.
Luckily, most of the time, this issue is easily fixable. Most often, the cable end that is connected to the lever may snap or become disconnected. The mechanic can fix this within a couple of minutes.
In certain instances, the bushing of the gear selector may be damaged or worn. Rubber covers are positioned around the points of articulation of the gear system in order to make it more fluid. They perform the same function to cartilage in your knees, so it's important that they remain healthy and flexible.
It is not uncommon for them to degrade over time, however there are a few ways to prolong their life. First, you should avoid using the gear selector during extremely cold weather. The gear control cables could freeze and crack. It is recommended to replace the bushings with premium quality ones, such as the ones from First Line.
These bushings are an important part of your gear selector, and should not be ignored. If you notice that yours is damaged it is best to visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the right parts to restore your gear selection apparatus. They can also provide a range of other services, like maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn on your key in the ignition but you don't hear anything except a click, your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through a natural process which causes them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to become coated with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery could cause your vehicle to lose electrical power, which can cause the radio to stop working or electric window becoming unresponsive. If you've had difficulty starting your car during cold weather this could be a sign that you need a new battery.
It is possible that your issue is not caused by an issue with your battery, but rather a malfunction in the charging system. This issue can be solved by having your mechanic verify that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables all work correctly.
A key fob that's not functioning properly is a common issue with automotive keys. The key fob is a tiny device 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 cease communicating with your car when it is exposed harsh temperatures or gets wet.
It is usually possible to reset the lost key fob following the directions in your owner's manual. Depending on the model of your car you may have to open and close the doors, turn the lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or even open and shut the windows. If this doesn't fix your fob, it may need to be professionally programmed and will require a special technician. Try these easy techniques before buying the new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder, which when inserted into ignition, transmits the signal. This signal tells an immobilizer that the key is right for the car to begin. In the 1990s, car theft became a major problem. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system for security and insurance reasons.
If you have a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your key could be at the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Before you visit, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number can be found on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in the owner's guide.
Bring your current key to an participating AutoZone store and an associate will utilize an instrument to trace the contours of the key blank to accurately duplicate the original key. auto key repair will be cut on the spot by a cutting machine that is precise. If your key is blade type or key fob or has a hefty black or grey head on it, it'll require programming to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.