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 turn in the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're filling up your car with groceries or on your way to home from work.
Instead of panicking There are many options to get you back on the road. Here are how to repair car key lock of the most common key issues in the automotive industry and solutions:
Broken or bent key
A bent key is the most common reason a car owner can't start their car. Straightening the key is a simple fix. It may sound simple, but it is important to do this carefully. The key is extremely thin and bending it just one degree can cause it to break.
To do this, you'll need a stable workspace, and a pair of pliers. Take the key at one end with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface, or in a vise. You can then put it into the lock to see if it turns.
If not, it might be time to have a new key cut. This will avoid needing to call a locksmith, and will ensure your key will work.
Keep an extra key in your pocket so you don't have the ability to get into your vehicle in the event that your key is damaged.
If you are having trouble inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying grease to it. This will enable it to move easier through the cylinder, and also prevent it from getting stuck. You can apply graphite or spray lubricant. Use the plastic tube that comes with the spray to ensure a more precise application. This will also help prevent water from destroying your key.
Stuck pins and springs
Sometimes, a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring may become stuck. Pins are a small piece of metal that is between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long with hollow ends. It is used to connect two pieces of a machine. In the majority of instances, you can take out a pin by simply pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench.
If you own a brand new car that has an electronic key with a microchip in it, there is a chance the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your car. This process is different based on the car and manufacturer.
If you need assistance with your car keys or locks, give us a call! We are able to repair or replace any vehicle key.
Gear Selector
If your car's gear selector gets stuck in park mode, it's crucial to take it to a mechanic right away. This is a safety concern and could lead to serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. It could also be a sign that the transmission system is experiencing bigger issues, which can be costly to repair.
Fortunately, the majority of the time this problem is easily fixable. The most frequent reason the gear selector can be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped off or become uncoupled from the lever itself. This is a straightforward fix and a mechanic will usually fix it within a few minutes.
In certain instances the gear selector bushing could become damaged or worn out. Rubber covers are placed around the articulation points of the gear system to make it more fluid. These rubber covers function similarly to the cartilage in your joints, and therefore must be healthy and flexible.
You can extend their life by doing a few simple things. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector during extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables that control the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, for instance the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are an essential part of your gear selector and should not be overlooked. If you find that yours is worn 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 right parts to restore the gear selector mechanism. They can also offer various other services, including transmission service and maintenance.
Dead battery
If you turn on your key in the ignition and hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo natural processes that cause them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will start to become coated with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery can cause your car to lose electrical power, which could cause the radio to stop working or electric window not working properly. If your car has been having problems getting started in cold weather, this is an indication that it is time for a new battery.
Sometimes your problem might not be a dead battery, but an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. A mechanic's check to verify that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all working properly could solve this problem.
Key fobs that are not functioning properly is a common automotive key repair. The key fob connects to the computer in your vehicle, and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system may be confused or stop communicating if it is wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
Follow the instructions in the owner's guide to reset the lost keyfob. Depending on the type 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 the issue, your device may require professional programming which requires the help of an expert. But it's still worthwhile to try these easy steps before you decide to shell out for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys have an embedded transponder chip in them that transmits an electronic signal to a receiver inside the ignition when inserted. This signal informs the immobilizer inside the car whether the key is the right one for it to start. In the 1990s, car theft became a major issue. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system due to safety and insurance reasons.
If you own a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your keys is to go to the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car before you leave. This number is usually found on the dashboard, in the door jamb or in the owner's manual.
Bring your working key to an AutoZone participating store. A representative will make use of a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key in order to precisely replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with a precise cutting machine onsite. If your key has blade, fob or a large head that is grey or black, it will need to be programmed for your car before you can start the motor.