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. It could occur at the most inconvenient time, such as when you're loading your car with groceries or heading home from work.
Instead of panicking, there are several different solutions to get back on the road. Here are some common key issues in the automotive industry and their solutions:
Broken or bent key
The most common reason why an owner of a car cannot begin their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is an easy fix. This may seem simple however, you need to be careful. The key is thin and can break if you bend it even slightly.
To do this, you'll need a stable workspace, and pliers. Take one end of the key using the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on a flat surface or in a vice. You can then put it in the lock to see if it changes.
If not, it could be time to get a new key cut. This will avoid needing to call a locksmith, and can ensure that your key will function.
It's a good idea keep a spare key in your pocket, so that you don't end up without an entry point into your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.
If you're having issues with a broken or bent key, try applying some oil on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will allow it to move through the cylinder and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use a spray graphite or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray for a more precise application. This will also help prevent water from destroying your device.
Spring pins and springs that are stuck
Sometimes a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring may get stuck. Pins are a tiny 2 to 3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends, which are used to connect 2 parts of an equipment. In most cases you can take a nut off by pulling it off using your fingers or the wrench.
If you have a newer car that has keys with microchips inside, there is an opportunity for the key to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This can be a simple or difficult depending on the manufacturer and car.
Contact us if you require assistance with your car locks or keys! We can repair or replace every key for your vehicle.
Gear Selector
It's crucial to take your car to a mechanic as quickly as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a safety issue and you could cause serious vehicle damage if continue driving. This could be a sign that the transmission system is having bigger issues, which can be costly to fix.
Most times, this problem is easily fixable. The most common reason the gear selector can be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped, or separated from the lever itself. This is a simple fix and a mechanic will usually complete the task in a couple of minutes.
In some instances, however, the gear selector bushing can become damaged or worn out. Rubber covers are positioned around the joints of the gear system in order to keep it fluid. These covers function similar to cartilage joints, which is why they must be healthy and flexible.
It is not uncommon for them to wear out in time, but there are a few things you can do to prolong their life. You should first avoid using the gear selection during extremely cold weather. This is because the gear control cables are often prone to freezing and cracking. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, for instance those made by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings form an important element of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you notice that yours is damaged you must visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the correct parts to repair the gear selection system. They also offer various other services like transmission maintenance and service.
Dead battery
If you turn your key in the ignition but you don't hear anything but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo an natural process that causes them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be covered with sulfate crystal deposits.
A dead battery may also cause your car to lose power, which could cause the radio to stop working or electric window malfunctioning. If you have been having trouble starting your car in cold weather, this could be a sign that you require an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes your problem might not be caused by a dead battery, but rather an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. Having your mechanic check to make sure that the serpentine belt, alternator and battery cables are working properly could solve this problem.
Another common repair for a key in the automotive is a key fob that isn't 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 can be confused or cease communicating if it gets wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.
It is usually possible to reset a lost key fob by following the steps in the owner's guide. Depending on the model of your car, you may need to open and close the doors, turn the lights and other electronic devices on and off and press a particular sequence of buttons, or even close and open the windows. If this does not fix your fob it may require professional programming, that will require the assistance of technicians. However, it's still worth attempting these steps before deciding to pay for a new device.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with an embedded transponder chip in them that sends an electronic signal to a receiver inside the ignition when they are inserted. The signal is sent to an immobilizer to determine that the key is right for the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major problem. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system for safety and insurance reasons.
If key fob repair have a brand newer vehicle, the only way to replace your key may be through the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle before you leave. It is located on the dashboard's front or door jamb in your owner's manual.
Bring your working key to an AutoZone participating store. A representative will use a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key in order to accurately duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using an exact cutting machine in-store. If the key you are using has an edge, 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.