Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all had this experience the car keys won't turn on the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're filling up your car with groceries or on your way to home from work.
There are a variety of solutions to bring you back on the way. Here are some common key issues in the automotive industry and solutions:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most common reason why a car owner is unable to start their vehicle. Straightening the key is an easy fix. This may seem simple however, you need to be careful. The key is extremely thin and even bending it small enough could cause it to break.
To do this, you'll require an area that is stable, as well as an plier. Take one end of the key with the pliers and bend it back until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on an even surface or in a vice. After that, you can place it in the lock to determine if it will turn.
If not, you may require a new one made. You don't have to contact a locksmith and your existing key will work.
Keep an extra key in your purse so you're not left without access to your vehicle if it is damaged.
If you have trouble inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying grease to it. This will help it move through the cylinder and stop it from getting stuck. It is possible to use a spray lubricant or graphite powder. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray to ensure an even more precise application. This will also stop moisture from damaging your important.
Stuck pins and springs
A pin (also called a roll pin or a spring) can become stuck. Pins are small 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends, which are used to connect two components of machines. 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 is equipped with microchip keys, it is possible that the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This procedure can be easy or difficult depending on the car's manufacturer and model.
Call us if you need assistance with your vehicle keys or locks! We can repair, replace, or program almost any vehicle key.
Selector for gears
It is essential to take your car to a mechanic as fast as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety concern and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This could also be a sign that your transmission system is having bigger problems that are expensive to fix.
Most times this issue is easily fixable. The most common reason that the gear selector can get stuck is that one of the cable ends has snapped off or separated from the lever itself. The mechanic can repair this issue in a matter of minutes.
In some instances, the bushing of the gear selector might be damaged or worn. The rubber covers are put around the points of articulation of the gear system to ensure that it is fluid. visit my website perform the same function as cartilage in your knees, so it's crucial that they remain in good shape and soft.
key fob repairs can prolong their lifespan by doing a few easy things. The first is to avoid using the gear selector during extremely cold weather. The cables for controlling the gear can freeze and break. It is recommended to replace the bushings with high quality ones, like those from First Line.
These bushings are an important part of your gear selector, and should not be ignored. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to go to an auto repair shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They will help you locate the ideal parts to restore the gear selector mechanism. They can also provide you with a range of other services, such as transmission service and maintenance.
Dead battery
If you turn your key in the ignition and you hear nothing other than a click, your battery is dead. The majority of batteries last between three and five years, and as they age they undergo an natural process that causes them to die prematurely. This is due to the negative plates inside your car battery will start to be coated with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery may also cause your car to lose electrical power, which can lead to the radio or electric window malfunctioning. If you have been having difficulty starting your car during cold weather, it could be a sign that you need a new battery.
It's possible that the problem is not an issue with your battery, but rather a malfunction in the charging system. A mechanic's check to make sure that the serpentine belt, alternator and battery cables are working properly could solve this issue.
A key fob that is not working properly is another common automotive key repair. The key fob is a small device that connects to the vehicle's computer and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system could become confused or stop communicating with your car when it is exposed extreme temperatures or gets wet.
It is possible to reset the lost key fob following the instructions provided in your owner's manual. Based on the model, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your device, it could require professional programming which will require the services of an expert. But it's still worthwhile to try these easy steps before deciding to pay for a new device.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder which when inserted into ignition, transmits the signal. The signal informs an immobilizer if the key is correct to allow the car to start. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became an issue that many manufacturers installed this transponder security system into their vehicles for security 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. Before you go, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in your owner's manual.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member will use 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 using a precise cutting machine onsite. If the key you are using has a blade, a fob, or a thick grey/black head, it will need to be programmed for your car before you can use it to start the motor.