Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all had this experience - the car key won't engage in the ignition. It could occur at the worst moment, like when you're loading your trunk full of groceries or driving home from work.
Rather than panic, there are several different solutions to get you back on the road. Here are a few of the most common automotive key repair issues and solutions for them:
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. This may sound simple but it's important to do it with care. The key is extremely thin and bending it just one degree can cause it to break.
To accomplish this, you will need a stable workspace, and pliers. Take one end of the key using the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on a flat surface or in a vice. Then, you can put it inside the lock to see if it changes.
If not, you may need to get a new one made. You don't need to call a locksmith and your key will function.
It's a good idea to keep a spare in your pocket, so you don't find yourself without access to your vehicle in the event of a broken key.
If you are experiencing issues with a bent or broken key, you can try applying lubrication on it before inserting it into the lock. This will enable it move more easily through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. Spray lubricant or graphite powder. Use the plastic tube that comes with the spray to get the most precise application. This will also stop water from destroying your important.
Pins that are snuck or springs
A pin (also called a roll pin, or a spring) may become stuck. Pins are a tiny 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 an equipment. In the majority of cases, you can remove pins by simply pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.
If you own an older car that uses microchip keys it is likely that the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This process can vary depending on the car and manufacturer.
Contact us if you require assistance with your car keys or locks! 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, you need to get it checked by a mechanic as soon as you notice it. This is a security issue and could lead to serious vehicle damage if continue driving. This problem is also a sign of bigger problems with the transmission system that could be costly to repair.
Fortunately, the majority times, this issue is easily fixable. The most common reason the gear selector can get stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped or become uncoupled from the lever itself. This is a straightforward fix and the mechanic can usually make it in a couple of minutes.
In some cases the gear selector bushing could get damaged or worn out. The rubber covers are put around the points of articulation of the gear system to ensure that it is fluid. These covers work similarly to cartilage joints, and therefore must be healthy and flexible.
You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few easy things. First, you should avoid using the gear selector during extremely cold temperatures. The cables that control the gears can freeze and break. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, for instance ones made by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are an important part of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you notice yours is damaged, you should visit an auto repair shop specializing in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the correct parts to repair your gear selection device. They can also provide you with a range of other services, like maintenance and repair of your transmission.
repair car remote control key
If you turn on your key in the ignition and you hear nothing other than a click, your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo a natural process which causes them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to become coated with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery may cause the loss of the power source in your car and cause the radio or the electric windows to stop working. If you have been having trouble starting your car in cold weather this could be a sign you require an upgrade to your battery.
It's possible that the issue is not due to a dead battery but an issue with the charging system. This issue can be fixed by having your mechanic check that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables all work correctly.
A key fob that's not functioning properly is a common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob is connected to your vehicle's computer, and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. This system can get confused or stop communicating with your car if it is exposed to extreme temperatures or gets wet.
Follow the instructions in the owner's guide to reset the lost keyfob. Depending on the type of vehicle it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronics on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix your fob, it could require professional programming by a special technician. It's worth trying these simple methods before you buy an entirely new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder chip built into them. It transmits an electronic signal to a receiver within the ignition when it is inserted. The signal informs the immobilizer in the car whether it is the right one to allow it to start. In the 1990s, car theft became an issue. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system to ensure safety and insurance reasons.
If you have a brand newer car, the only way to replace your keys could be at the dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Before you go there make a note of the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This can be found on the dashboard's front, door jamb, or in your owner's manual.
Bring your current key with you to an AutoZone store and a representative will use an instrument to trace the contours of your blank key to accurately duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with a precise cutting machine onsite. If your key has a blade, a fob or a thick grey or black head it will need to be programmed for your car before you can start the motor.