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 engage in the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're filling your trunk with groceries, or returning to home from work.
There are many solutions that will bring you back on the way. Here are some of the most common key issues with cars and solutions:
Broken or bent key
The most common reason why an owner of a car cannot start their car is a bent key. This can be repaired by simply straightening the key. This may seem simple but be careful. The key is very thin and could break if you bend it even slightly.
You'll need a solid work surface as well as a pair of pliers to accomplish this. Grab one end of the key with the pliers and bend it back until it is straight. This should be done on a flat surface or in a vise. Then, you can place it inside the lock to test whether it will turn.
If not, it could be time to have a new key cut. There is no have to contact a locksmith and your key will still function.
It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your pocket so that you don't end up without a way into your vehicle in the event of a lost key.
If you're experiencing problems with a broken or bent key, you can try applying grease on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder, and prevent it from becoming stuck. Spray lubricant or graphite powder. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray to get a more precise application. This will also stop moisture from damaging your key.
Pins that are snuck or springs
Sometimes a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring can 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 parts of machines. In most cases you can remove a nut by pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.
If you own a newer car that has keys with microchips in it, there is an opportunity for the key to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This can be a simple or complicated depending on the manufacturer and car.
If you need help with your keys for your vehicle or locks, give us call! We can repair, replace or program nearly any key for your vehicle.
Gear Selector
It's important to get your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a security issue and could result in serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. This is also a sign of more serious issues in the transmission system itself, which could be expensive to fix.
Most times, this problem is easily fixable. The most common reason the gear selector can get stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped, or separated from the lever itself. This is a simple fix, and the mechanic can usually fix it within a few minutes.
In some cases the gear selector bushing can become damaged or worn out. These are rubber covers that go around joints within the gear system, allowing it move more easily. These covers work similarly to the cartilage that you have in your joints, so they must be healthy and flexible.
It's not unusual for them to wear out over time, but there are a few things you can do to extend their life. It is best to avoid the gear selection in extremely cold temperatures. The gear control cables can freeze and crack. You should also replace the bushings with premium quality ones, like the ones from First Line.
These bushings are an essential component of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you notice that yours is wearing out,
keyless entry repair it's a great idea to go to an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you to locate the ideal parts to repair your gear selector device. They also offer many other services, including maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you switch the ignition on and hear only a click, then 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 of the battery in your car begin to be coated with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery can also cause the loss of the electrical power in your vehicle which can cause the radio or the electric windows to malfunction. If you have been having difficulty starting your car during cold weather this could be a sign you need a new battery.
It's possible that your problem is not a dead battery but an issue with the charging system. Your mechanic should ensure that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are functioning properly can solve this problem.
Another type of key
Keyless entry repair for automotive vehicles is an ignition key that has stopped working properly. The key fob is a small unit that connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and accessory systems. This system can get confused or cease communicating with your vehicle if it is exposed to extreme temperatures or is wet.
It is usually possible to reset the lost key fob by following the directions in the owner's manual. Depending on the model of your
car key remote repair near me, you may need to open and close the doors, turn lights and other electronic devices on and off and press a particular sequence of buttons, or even open and shut the windows. If this doesn't fix your fob, it could need to be professionally programmed, which will require an expert technician. It's worth trying these simple methods before you buy the new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder that,
keyless entry repair when inserted into the ignition, sends out a signal. This signal tells an immobilizer whether the key is in the right place for the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft became an issue. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system for safety and insurance reasons.
If you have a brand newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key could be at the dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car before you leave. This number is usually found on the dashboard, 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 accurately duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site using a precision cutting machine. If the key you have is a blade style or key fob or has a hefty grey or black head, it will require programming to the specific car you own before it can be used to start the engine.
