Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all experienced this when the car's key doesn't turn on the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient times, like when you're loading your car with groceries or returning home from work.
Rather than panic There are many solutions to get back on the road. Here are a few common key issues in the automotive industry and their solutions:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most frequent reason a car owner can't start their car. This can be repaired by simply bending the key. It may sound simple, but it is important to do it with care. The key is extremely thin and may break if you bend it even slightly.
You'll need a sturdy work surface and a pair pliers for this. Grab 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. Then, you can place it inside the lock to test if it will turn.
If not, you could need to get a new one created. This will avoid needing to call a locksmith and can ensure that your key will work.
Keep a spare key in your purse so you don't have access to your vehicle if yours is damaged.
If you're having issues with a broken or bent key, you can try applying oil on it prior to trying to insert 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 that comes with the spray to ensure an even more precise application. This will also help to keep moisture from damaging your key.
Stuck pins or springs
A pin (also called a roll pin, or a spring) can sometimes become stuck. Pins are small 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends used to connect 2 parts of a machine. In most instances, you can take out a pin by simply pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.
If you have an older vehicle that has a microchip key it is possible that the key needs to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This can be a simple or complicated depending on the car's model and manufacturer.
Contact us for assistance with your automotive locks or keys! We can repair or replace every key for your vehicle.
Gear Selector
If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, it's important to bring it to an expert mechanic immediately. This is a security issue and could lead to serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. This could be a sign that your transmission is experiencing more serious problems that are expensive to fix.
Fortunately, the majority of the time this problem is easily fixable. The cable that is connected to the lever could snap or come uncoupled. The mechanic can fix this in a few minutes.
In some instances, the bushings on the gear selector might be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that are placed around the articulation points in the gear system to help it move more fluidly. These covers function similar to cartilage joints, so they must be flexible and healthy.
You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few basic things. It is best to avoid the gear selection in extremely cold weather. The cables that control the gears can freeze and crack. You should also replace the bushings using premium quality ones, such as the ones from First Line.
These bushings are an essential element of your gear selector and shouldn't be overlooked. If you notice yours is worn out you must visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the right parts to restore your gear selection apparatus. They also offer a variety of other services such as maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn the ignition key but 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 a natural process that causes them to die prematurely. This is due to the negative plates inside the battery of your car will begin to become coated with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery can cause your car to lose electrical power, which can lead to the radio or electric window becoming unresponsive. If you've had difficulty starting your car during cold weather, it could be a sign that you need an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes, your issue might not be caused by a dead battery, but rather an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. Your mechanic should make sure that the serpentine belt, alternator and battery cables are functioning properly can solve this issue.
A key fob that is not functioning properly is another common automotive key repair. The key fob is connected to the computer in your vehicle and relays signals as well as commands between the engine and the accessory systems. This system may be confused or cease communicating if it becomes wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
Follow the instructions in the owner's guide to reset the keyfob that was lost. Depending on just click the up coming page of vehicle it will require opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronics on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If this does not fix your device, it could need to professionally programmed which will require the services of technicians. It's worth trying these simple methods before you buy an entirely new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder, which, when inserted into the ignition, transmits an indication. This signal tells the immobilizer inside the car whether it is the right one for it to start. In the 1990s, theft of vehicles became an issue that many manufacturers fitted this transponder security system in their vehicles for security and insurance purposes.
If you have a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your keys is to go to the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you visit note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). It is located on the front of the dashboard or door jamb in the owner's manual.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone store and a representative will employ machines to trace the contours of your key blank to accurately duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on the spot by a cutting machine that is precise. If your key is a blade type, a key fob, or has a thick black or grey head, it will have to be programmed to your specific car before it can be used to start the engine.