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 turn on the ignition. emergency car key repair could occur at the worst moment, for instance, when you are loading your trunk with groceries or driving home from work.
There are many different solutions to get you back on your way. Here are a few common key issues with cars and their solutions:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most frequent reason why a car owner is unable to start their car. It can be repaired by simply bending the key. It might sound easy but it's important to do it carefully. The key is very thin and even bending it small enough could cause it to break.
To do this, you'll require an area with a solid foundation, as well as an plier. Pick up one end of the key with the pliers and bend it back until it is straight. It is best to do this on the floor or in a vice. Then, you can put it into the lock to see if it changes.
If not, it may be time to have a new key cut. This will prevent you from needing to contact a locksmith and can ensure that your key will work.
It's a good idea keep a spare in your pocket, so that 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 grease on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will help it move more easily through the cylinder and stop it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite as a spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray to get an even more precise application. This will also help to stop moisture from ruining your key.
Pins that are snuck or springs
A pin (also known as a roll pin or spring) may become stuck. Pins are a tiny 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 an equipment. In the majority of cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it off using your fingers or the wrench.
If you own an older car that is equipped with microchip keys, it is possible that the key needs to be programmed to function with your car. This process is different based on the model of car and the manufacturer.
If you need help with your keys for your vehicle or locks give us a call! We are able to repair or replace every key for your vehicle.
Gear Selector
It's important to get your car to a mechanic as soon as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety concern and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. It could also be a sign that the transmission system is experiencing bigger problems, which are costly to fix.
Most of the time, this problem is easily fixable. The most common reason the gear selector could be 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 fix it in a couple of minutes.
In some cases, however, the gear selector bushing could get damaged or worn out. Rubber covers are positioned around the joints of the gear system to ensure that it is fluid. These covers work similarly to cartilage joints, so they need to be flexible and healthy.
You can extend the life of your gear selector by doing a few basic things. You should avoid the gear selection during extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables controlling the gear tend to freeze and cracking. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, such as the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are an essential element of your selection of gears and shouldn't be ignored. If you notice that yours is damaged you must visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the right parts to restore the gear selection system. They can also provide you with various other services, including maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you switch the key in the ignition and hear nothing but a click then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo a natural process which causes them to die early. This is due to the negative plates of your car battery will start to become coated with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery may also cause your car to lose power, which could result in the radio or electric window not working properly. If your car has been experiencing problems getting started in cold weather, this is an indication that it's time for an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes your problem might not be a dead battery, but rather a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. This problem can be resolved by having your mechanic check that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are working properly.
Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is a key fob that has stopped working properly. The key fob is a tiny device that connects to the vehicle's computer and relays commands and signals between the engine and accessory systems. This system may be confused or stop communicating if it gets wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.
It is usually possible to reset the lost key fob by following the instructions provided in the owner's guide. Based on the model it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronics on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix your fob, it could need to be professionally programmed by an expert technician. Try these easy methods before you buy the new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys include a transponder chip built into them. It transmits a signal to a receiver in the ignition when it is inserted. The signal informs an immobilizer whether the key is in the right place for the car to start. In the 1990s, theft of vehicles became an issue that the majority of manufacturers installed this transponder security device in their vehicles for safety and insurance purposes.
If you own a newer vehicle, the only option to change your keys is to visit the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go there, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number can be found on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in the owner's manual.
Bring your current key with you to a participating AutoZone store and a representative will utilize a machine to trace the contours of your blank key to accurately replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using a precise cutting machine onsite. If the key you are using has an edge, a fob or a large grey/black head it must be programmed to your car before you can start the motor.