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 could happen at the worst possible time, such as when you're filling your car with groceries or driving home from work.
Rather than key repair near me , there are a variety of options to get you back on the road. Here are a few of the most common automotive key repair problems and possible solutions:
Broken or bent keys
The most common reason why the owner of a car is unable to begin their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is a simple fix. This may sound simple however it is crucial to do it carefully. The key is very thin, and bending it even one degree can cause it to break.
To accomplish this, you'll require a stable workspace, and an plier. Take one end of the key using the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on the floor or in a vice. Then, you can place it in the lock to determine whether it will turn.
If not, you could require a new key made. This will avoid 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 access to your vehicle in the event that your key is damaged.
If you're having difficulty inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying some lubricant to it. This will help it to move easier through the cylinder and prevent it from getting stuck. You can use graphite as a spray lubricant. Use the plastic tube that comes with the spray to get the most precise application. This will also help stop moisture from ruining your key.
Stuck pins or springs
Sometimes, a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring can get stuck. Pins are small 2 to 3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends used to connect two parts of an equipment. In most instances, you can take out pins by simply pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench.
If you own an older vehicle that has a microchip key it is likely that the key needs to be programmed to function with your car. This can be a simple or complex depending on the car's manufacturer and model.
Contact us if you require assistance with your vehicle locks or keys! We can repair or replace every vehicle key.
Selector for gears
It's crucial to take your car to a mechanic as soon as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety issue, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This problem is also a sign of larger issues with the transmission that could be expensive to fix.
Most times the issue is fixable. Most of the time, the cable end that is connected to the lever may snap or break off. This is a straightforward fix and a mechanic should be able to complete the task in a couple of minutes.
In some cases the bushings of the gear selector could be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that are placed around the joints within the gear system, allowing it shift more fluidly. They function in a similar way to cartilage in your knees so it's crucial that they stay healthy and flexible.
It's not uncommon for them to wear out in time, but there are some things you can do to extend their life. First, you should avoid using the gear selector during extremely cold weather. The cables for controlling the gear can freeze and crack. You should also replace the bushings with high quality ones, like those from First Line.
These bushings are a critical part of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you notice that yours is worn out, you should visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. These experts can help you locate the right parts to fix the gear selector mechanism. They can also offer many other services, including transmission service and maintenance.
Dead battery
If you turn the ignition on and you hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo an natural process that causes them to die early. This is due to the negative plates in the battery in your car begin to become coated by crystals of sulfate.
repair car key can cause your vehicle to lose power, which could lead to the radio or electric window becoming unresponsive. If your car is having issues beginning in cold weather, it is a good sign that it's time for a new battery.
It's possible that your issue is not due to an issue with your battery, but rather a malfunction in the charging system. Your mechanic should verify that the serpentine belt, alternator and battery cables are all working properly could solve this issue.
Key fobs that are not functioning properly is a common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob is a tiny device that connects to the vehicle's computer and relays commands and signals between the engine and the accessory systems. This system can be confused or cease communicating if it gets wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
Follow the directions in the owner's manual to reset a lost keyfob. Based on the model it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronics on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If this does not fix your fob it may require professional programming which will require the services of an expert. Try these easy techniques before purchasing the new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder chip embedded in them that sends signals to a receiver within the ignition when they are inserted. The signal is sent to an immobilizer to determine that the key is right for the car to begin. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became such an issue that the majority of manufacturers installed 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 at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go there note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in an owner's guide.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate 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 an exact cutting machine on site. If your key is equipped with blade, fob or a thick grey or black head it will need to be programmed for your vehicle before you can use it to start the motor.