Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all been there - your car key refuses to turn in the ignition. It could occur at the worst moment, for instance, when you're filling your trunk full of groceries or driving home from work.
There are many solutions that will help you get back on your way. Here are a few of the most common car key repair issues and solutions for them:
Broken or bent keys
The most frequent reason an owner of a car cannot begin their vehicle is a bent key. This can be easily repaired by simply straightening the key. It might sound easy but it's important to do this carefully. The key is extremely thin and even bending it one degree can cause it to break.
To do this, you will need an area with a solid foundation, as well as a pair of pliers. Pick up one end of the key using the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on an even surface or in a vice. You can then place it inside the lock to see if it changes.
If not, repair keys near me might be time to have a new key cut. You don't need to call a locksmith and your existing key will work.
It's a good idea keep a spare in your pocket, so you don't have a way into your vehicle in the event of a lost key.
If you're having issues with a bent or broken key, try putting some oil on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will enable it to move easier through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray to get an even 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 and has hollow ends. It is used to connect two components of machines. In the majority of cases, you can remove pins by pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.
If you have an older vehicle that has microchip keys it is likely that the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your car. This procedure can be easy or complicated depending on the car's manufacturer and model.
If you require assistance with your car keys or locks, give us call! We are able to repair or replace every vehicle key.
Gear selector
If your car's gear selector gets stuck in park mode, you need to bring it to an expert mechanic immediately. This is a safety issue and could result in serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This could also be a sign that your transmission system is having bigger problems that are expensive to repair.
Luckily, most of the time this problem is easily fixable. The most common reason the gear selector could get stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped or disconnected from the lever itself. This is a simple fix, and the mechanic can usually make it in a couple of minutes.
In some cases 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. They perform the same function as cartilage in your knees, therefore it is important to ensure that they remain healthy and supple.
It's not uncommon for them to degrade over time, but there are some things you can do to extend their life. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector in extremely cold temperatures. The cables that control the gears can freeze and crack. You should also replace the bushings with premium quality ones, such as the ones from First Line.
These bushings are an essential part of your selection of gears and shouldn't be ignored. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to go to an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you to locate the right parts to fix the gear selector mechanism. They can also offer a range of other services, including maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you switch the ignition key and you hear only a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo a natural process which causes them to die early. This is because the negative plates of your car battery will start to become coated by sulfate crystals.
A dead battery may also cause your vehicle to lose power, which can lead to the radio or electric window not working properly. If your car has been having issues getting started in cold weather, it is a good sign that it is time for a new battery.
Sometimes, online might not be due to a dead battery, but a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. This problem can be resolved by having your mechanic verify that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all functioning properly.
Key fobs that are not functioning properly is another common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob is a small unit that connects to the computer in the vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and the accessory systems. The system could become confused or cease communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed to harsh temperatures or gets wet.
It is usually possible to reset a lost key fob by following the directions in the owner's manual. Based on the vehicle you have you may have to open and close the doors, turn the lights and other electronic devices off and on by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or shut and open the windows. If this doesn't solve your fob, it might need to be professionally programmed by a special technician. However, it's still worth attempting these steps before deciding to pay for a new device.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder that, when inserted into the ignition, sends out the signal. This signal tells the immobilizer on the car whether it is the right one to allow it to start. In the 1990s, theft of vehicles became such an issue that many manufacturers put this transponder security system into their vehicles to ensure safety and insurance reasons.
If you own a brand new vehicle, the only way to change your keys is to visit the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go there note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the dashboard, in the door jamb or in the owner's manual.
Bring your current working key along to an AutoZone store and an associate will employ an instrument to trace the contours of your key blank to accurately duplicate the original key. car key repairs near me will be cut on-site using a precision cutting machine. If the key you are using has a blade, a fob or a thick grey/black head it must be programmed for your car before you can start the motor.