Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all had this experience the car keys won't turn in the ignition. It could happen at the worst possible time, such as when you're loading your trunk with groceries or returning home from work.
Rather than panic There are many options to get you back on the road. Here are a few common car key repair issues and their possible solutions:
Broken or bent key
A bent key is the most frequent reason a car owner can't start their vehicle. Straightening the key is an easy fix. This might seem easy but be careful. The key is extremely thin, and bending it even small enough could cause it to break.
To do this, you'll need an area that is stable, as well as a pair of pliers. Pick up one end of the key using the pliers, and then bend it back until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on an even surface or in a vice. Then, you can put it in the lock to determine whether it turns.
If not, it could be time to have a new key cut. This will avoid having to contact a locksmith and can ensure that your key works.
It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your pocket, so you don't end up without an entry point into your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.
If you're experiencing problems with a broken or bent key, try applying some lubrication on it before trying to insert it into the lock. This will allow it to move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. electronic key repair near me can apply graphite or spray lubricant. If 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 key.
Spring pins and springs with pins
A pin (also known as a roll pin, or a spring) can sometimes 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 pieces of a machine. In most instances, it is possible to remove a pin by simply pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.
If you have an older car that is equipped with a microchip key, it is possible that the key will need to be programmed in order to function with your car. This process is different based on the car and manufacturer.
If you need assistance with your keys for your vehicle or locks give us a call! 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 crucial to get it checked by an expert mechanic immediately. It's a safety concern, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This could be a sign that your transmission is experiencing more serious problems that are expensive to fix.
Most of the time, this problem is easily fixable. Most of the time, the cable end that is connected to the lever can snap or come uncoupled. This is a straightforward fix and the mechanic can usually fix it in a couple of minutes.
In some instances, the bushings on the gear selector could be damaged or worn. Rubber covers are positioned around the joints of the gear system to ensure that it is fluid. These covers work similarly to the cartilage that you have in your joints, so they need to be healthy and flexible.
You can extend the life of your gear selector by doing a few basic things. You should avoid the gear selection in extremely cold temperatures. This is because the gear control cables tend to freeze and cracking. You should also replace the bushings with premium quality ones, such as the ones from First Line.
These bushings are an essential component of your gear selector, and shouldn't be overlooked. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a great idea to go to an auto repair shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help you locate the ideal parts to repair your gear selector apparatus. They can also provide various other services, like maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn the ignition on and you hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. The average battery lasts between three and five years, and as they age they undergo an natural process that causes them to end up dying prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will start to become coated with sulfate crystal deposits.
A dead battery can cause your vehicle to lose electrical power, which can lead to the radio or electric window malfunctioning. If you've been having trouble starting your car in cold weather this could be a sign you require an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes, your issue might not be caused by a dead battery, but a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. A mechanic's check to make sure that the serpentine belt, alternator, and battery cables are working correctly can resolve this issue.
Another common automotive key repair is the key fob that has stopped working properly. The key fob is a small device that connects to your computer in the vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and the accessory systems. This system can be confused or stop communicating if it becomes wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
Follow the steps in the owner's guide to reset a lost keyfob. Depending on your vehicle you may have to open and close the doors, turn the lights and other electronic devices off and on by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or close and open the windows. If this doesn't fix your device, it could require professional programming that will require the assistance of a technician. But it's still worthwhile to try these easy steps before deciding to pay for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys have a transponder chip built into them that sends an electronic signal to a receiver inside the ignition when it is inserted. This signal informs the immobilizer on the car if it is the right one for it to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major problem. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system for safety and insurance reasons.
If you own a brand new vehicle, the only way to change your keys is to visit the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car prior to you leave. This number is usually found on the dashboard's front, door jamb, or in your owner's manual.
Bring your current key along to an AutoZone store, and an associate will employ machines to trace the contours of your key blank to accurately duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using a precise cutting machine onsite. If the key you have is a blade style or key fob or has a thick grey or black head, it'll need to be programmed to the specific car you own before it can be used to start the engine.