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 happens at the most inconvenient times, like when you're filling your car with groceries or returning home from work.
Rather than panic, there are several different solutions to get you back on the road. Here are some of the most common automotive key problems and solutions:
Broken or bent key
A bent key is the most common reason why a car owner is unable to start their car. Straightening the key is an easy fix. It may appear simple however, you need to be cautious. The key is extremely thin and even bending it a little can cause it to break.
To do this, you'll require an area with a solid foundation, as well as an plier. Hold the key on one end with the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface, or in a vise. You can then put it in the lock to see if it turns.
If not, you could need to get a new one made. You don't have to contact a locksmith and your key will still function.
Keep a spare key in your pocket to ensure you're not without the ability to get into your vehicle in the event that your key is damaged.
If you have trouble inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying lubricant to it. This will allow it move through the cylinder and stop it from getting stuck. You can apply graphite or spray lubricant. Use the plastic tube that comes with the spray to get a more precise application. This will also help prevent moisture from ruining your key.
Stuck pins or springs
A pin (also known as a roll pin or a spring) can get stuck. Pins are small 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends that are used to connect two components of machines. In most cases you can take a nut off by pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench.
If you own an older car that uses microchip keys it is possible that the key needs to be programmed to function with your car. This process can vary depending on the model of car and the manufacturer.
If remote key fob repair require assistance with your keys for your vehicle or locks, give us a call! We can repair or replace any vehicle 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 concern and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This issue could also indicate larger issues in the transmission system itself, which can be costly to repair.
Most of the time the issue is fixable. The cable end that is attached to the lever may snap or become disconnected. The mechanic can fix this issue in a matter of minutes.
In some instances, the bushings of the gear selector might be damaged or worn. These are rubber coverings that cover articulation points in the gear system, allowing it move more easily. They work in a similar manner to cartilage in your knees, so it's important that they remain in good shape and soft.
You can extend their life by doing a few basic things. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector during extremely cold temperatures. This is because the gear control cables are prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace the bushings with high quality ones, such as those from First Line.
These bushings are an important component of your gear selector, and should not go unnoticed. If you notice that yours is damaged it is best to visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the correct parts to repair your gear selection apparatus. They can also offer many other services such as maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn your key into the ignition and hear nothing except a click, your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through natural processes that cause them to die prematurely. This is because the negative plates inside the battery of your car will begin to become coated with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery may also cause your vehicle to lose power, which could cause the radio to stop working or electric window malfunctioning. If you've been having trouble starting your car in cold weather, this could be a sign that you need a new battery.
It's possible that your problem is not an unresponsive battery but an issue with the charging system. A mechanic's check to make sure that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are working correctly can resolve this problem.
Key fobs that are not functioning properly is a common automotive key repair. The key fob is a small unit that connects to the computer in the vehicle and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system may become confused or stop communicating with your car when it is exposed to extreme temperatures or gets wet.
Follow the directions in your owner's guide to reset the lost keyfob. Depending on the model of your car, you may need to open and close the doors, turn lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or even shut and open the windows. If this doesn't fix your device, it could need to professionally programmed which will require the services of technicians. It's worth attempting these steps before deciding to pay for a new device.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder which when inserted into ignition, sends out an indication. This signal tells the immobilizer inside the car whether it is the right one to be used for starting. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became an issue that many manufacturers fitted this transponder security system into their vehicles for safety and insurance purposes.
If you own a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key could be through the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle before you go. You can find this number on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in an owner's manual.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member will use a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site with a precise cutting machine. If the key you are using has an edge, a fob or a large head that is grey or black it will need to be programmed for your vehicle before you can start the motor.