Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all experienced this - the car key won't turn on the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're filling up your trunk with groceries or on your way to home from work.
Rather than panic There are many options to get you back on the road. Here are a few common automotive key repair issues and possible solutions:
Broken or bent key
The most frequent reason an owner of a car cannot start their car is a bent key. Straightening the key is a simple fix. This might seem easy but be careful. The key is thin and can break if bent even slightly.
You will need a stable work surface and a pair of pliers to accomplish this. Grab the key at one end with the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. This is best done on a flat surface, or in a vise. Then, you can put it in the lock to see whether it turns.
If not, it might be time to get a new key cut. This will prevent you from having to call a locksmith, and will ensure that your key will function.
Keep a spare key in your pocket to ensure you don't have access to your vehicle in the event that your key breaks.
If you are experiencing issues with a broken or bent key, try applying some oil on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will enable it to move easier through the cylinder and prevent it from becoming stuck. Spray graphite powder or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray to ensure an even more precise application. This will also help stop moisture from ruining your key.
Stuck pins or springs
Sometimes a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring may become stuck. Pins are small 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends, which are used to connect 2 parts of machines. In the majority of cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it off using your fingers or using a wrench.
If you have an older car that is equipped with microchip keys it is likely that the key will need to be programmed in order to work with your car. This procedure can be easy or difficult depending on the manufacturer and car.
Contact emergency car key repair for assistance with your car locks or keys! We can repair, replace or program almost every 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 a mechanic right away. It's a safety issue and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This is also a sign of bigger problems in the transmission system that could be costly to repair.
Most times, this problem is easily fixable. Most of the time, the cable end that is connected to the lever could snap or become disconnected. This is a straightforward fix and a mechanic will usually complete the task within a few minutes.
In certain instances, however, the gear selector bushing could get damaged or worn out. Rubber covers are placed around the articulation points of the gear system to make it more fluid. They work in a similar manner as cartilage in your knees, so it's crucial to keep them in good shape and soft.
It's not uncommon for them to wear out in time, but there are some things you can do to prolong their life. It is best to avoid the gear selection in extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables that control the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace the bushings using premium quality ones, such as those from First Line.
These bushings are an important part of your gear selector and should not go unnoticed. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to visit an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you to locate the ideal parts to restore your gear selector apparatus. They also provide various other services like maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn on your key in the ignition but you don't hear anything other than a click, your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through a natural process which causes them to die early. This is due to the negative plates inside your car battery will start to become coated by crystals of sulfate.
A dead battery can also cause the loss of the power source in your car, causing the radio or the electric windows to fail. If your car is experiencing problems starting in cold weather, it is a good sign that it is time for a new battery.
Sometimes your problem might not be due to a dead battery, but rather a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. This issue can be fixed by having your mechanic verify that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are all functioning properly.
Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is the key fob that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob is connected to your vehicle's computer and relays signals as well as commands between the engine and the accessory systems. The system could become confused or cease communicating with your vehicle if it is exposed to harsh temperatures or gets wet.
Follow the instructions in the owner's manual to reset the keyfob that was lost. Depending on the vehicle it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronic devices on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix your device, it could require professional programming, which requires the help of technicians. Try these easy techniques before purchasing a new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder, which when it is inserted into the ignition, sends out a signal. The signal informs an immobilizer whether the key is in the right place for the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major problem. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system to ensure security and insurance reasons.
If you have a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your keys is at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle before you go. This number is usually found on the dashboard's front or door jamb in your owner's manual.
Bring your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. A representative 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 by a cutting machine that is precise. If the key you are using has a blade, a fob, or a thick grey/black head it must be programmed for your vehicle before you can use it to start the motor.