Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all been there when the car's key doesn't engage in the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient moments, like when you're loading your car with groceries or returning to home from work.
Rather than panic, there are several different solutions to get you back on the road. Here are a few common key issues in the automotive industry and solutions:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most frequent reason why a car owner is unable to start their car. Straightening the key is an easy fix. This may sound simple, but it is important to do it with care. The key is very thin and even bending it small enough could cause it to break.
You'll need a solid work surface as well as a pair of pliers to accomplish this. Take the key at one end with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. This should be done on a flat surface or in a vise. Then, you can place it in the lock to determine if it will turn.
If not, it might be time to have a new key cut. This will prevent you from having to call a locksmith, and can ensure that your key will work.
Keep an extra key in your pocket so you're not left without the ability to get into your vehicle if it breaks.
If you're having difficulty inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying lubricant to it. This will help it move through the cylinder and stop it from becoming stuck. You can use a spray graphite powder or lubricant. If you are using a spray, ensure you attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure more precise application. This will also help prevent water from destroying your device.
Pins that are snuck or springs
A pin (also known as a roll pin or a spring) can sometimes become stuck. A pin is a small piece of metal that measures between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long, with hollow ends. It is used to connect two pieces of machines. In most cases, you can remove a nut by pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.
If you own an older car that is equipped with a microchip key, it is possible that the key needs to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This process is different based on the model of car and the manufacturer.
If you need assistance with your automotive keys or locks, give us a call! We can repair, replace or program nearly any key for your vehicle.
Gear Selector
It is essential to take your car to a mechanic as soon as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a security issue, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This can also be a sign of more serious issues in the transmission system that could be costly to repair.
Most of the time this issue is easily fixable. The most common reason that the gear selector may get stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped, or disconnected from the lever itself. This is a simple fix and a mechanic will usually complete the task within a few minutes.
In certain instances the gear selector bushing may get damaged or worn out. These are rubber coverings that cover joints within the gear system, allowing it shift more easily. These covers function similar to the cartilage that you have in your joints, which is why they need to be healthy and flexible.
You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few easy things. First, you should avoid using the gear selector in very cold weather. This is because the cables that control the gear tend to freeze and cracking. It is recommended to replace the bushings with high quality ones, like those from First Line.
These bushings form an important element of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you notice yours is damaged, you should visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They will help you locate the right parts to fix your gear selector apparatus. They can also provide you with various other services, like maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn your key into the ignition and hear nothing other than a click, your battery is dead. Most batteries last between three and five years, and as they age, they undergo a natural process that causes them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be covered with sulfate crystalline deposits.
A dead battery may also cause your car to lose electrical power, which can lead to the radio or electric window malfunctioning. If your car has been experiencing problems getting started in cold weather, this could be a good sign that it is time for an upgrade to your battery.
It's possible that your issue is not due to a dead battery but an issue with the charging system. Having your mechanic check to verify that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are all working properly could solve this issue.
Key fobs that are not functioning properly is another common automotive key repair. The key fob is a small device that connects to the vehicle's computer and relays commands and signals between the engine and accessory systems. The system may become confused or stop communicating with your vehicle if it is exposed to extreme temperatures or gets wet.
It is usually possible to reset the lost key fob following the instructions provided in the owner's guide. Depending on the vehicle it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If car key remote repair near me G28 Car Keys Solutions doesn't fix your fob, it could require professional programming by an expert. It's worth trying these simple steps before you decide to pay for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder chip embedded in them that transmits an electronic signal to a receiver in the ignition when inserted. This signal tells the immobilizer inside the car whether it is the right one for it to start. In the 1990s, theft of cars became such a problem that most manufacturers installed this transponder security system in their vehicles to ensure safety and insurance purposes.
If you own a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your keys is at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go make a note of the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). It is located on the front of the dashboard or door jamb in your owner's manual.
Bring your working key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with a precise cutting machine onsite. If your key is equipped with an edge, a fob or a thick head that is grey or black it must be programmed for your vehicle before you can start the motor.