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 the ignition. It can occur at the worst moment, like when you are loading your trunk with groceries or driving home from work.
There are many different solutions that will bring you back on the way. Here are some of the most common automotive key problems and solutions:
Broken or bent key
The most common reason why the owner of a car is unable to start their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is a simple fix. This may sound simple, but it is important to do this carefully. The key is extremely thin and can break if you bend it even a little.
You will need a stable work surface and a pair pliers to accomplish this. Grab the key at one end with the pliers, and bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on a flat surface or in a vice. Then, you can put it inside the lock to see if it will turn.
If not, you might need to have a new one made. This will avoid having to call a locksmith and will ensure your key will work.
Keep an extra key in your pocket to ensure you're not without a way to enter your vehicle if yours breaks.
If you're experiencing problems with a broken or bent key, try applying some grease on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will help it move through the cylinder and stop it from getting stuck. You can use graphite as a spray lubricant. If you're using a spray ensure you attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure an easier application. This will also help stop moisture from ruining your key.
Pins that are snuck or springs
Sometimes a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring can get stuck. Pins are a tiny 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends, which are used to connect two components of a machine. In the majority of cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.
If you have a newer car that uses an electronic key with a microchip inside, there is a chance the key needs to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This procedure can be easy or complex depending on the car's model and manufacturer.
If you need help with your car keys or locks, give us a call! We can repair, replace, or program virtually any car key.
Selector for gears
If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, it's crucial to bring it to a mechanic as soon as you notice it. It's a safety issue and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive mobile key repair it. This can also be a sign of bigger problems in the transmission system itself, which can be expensive to fix.
Fortunately, the majority times, this issue is easily fixable. The cable end that is attached to the lever could snap or come uncoupled. The mechanic can fix this in a few minutes.
In some instances, the bushings on the gear selector might be damaged or worn. These are rubber coverings that go around joints within the gear system to aid in making it move more smoothly. They perform the same function as cartilage in your knees so it's crucial to keep them healthy and flexible.
You can extend the life of your gear selector by doing a few basic things. You should first avoid using the gear selection in extremely cold weather. The cables for controlling the gear could freeze and crack. It is recommended to replace the bushings using premium quality ones, like the ones from First Line.
These bushings are a critical element of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you notice yours is worn out you must visit an auto repair shop specializing in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the right parts to fix your gear selection device. They also provide a variety of other services such as transmission maintenance and service.
Dead battery
If you turn on your 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 prematurely. This is due to the negative plates inside your car battery will start to be coated with crystals of sulfate.
A dead battery may also cause your car to lose power, which could result in the radio or electric window not working properly. If you've had trouble starting your car in cold weather, this could be a sign that you require a new battery.
It's possible that your problem is not a dead battery but an issue with the charging system. This issue can be fixed 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 isn't working properly. The key fob connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays signals as well as commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system can be confused or stop communicating if it is wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.
Follow the directions in the owner's manual to reset the lost keyfob. Based on the model it could 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 work for your fob, it could need to be professionally programmed, which will require an expert technician. Try these easy techniques before purchasing a new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder that when it is inserted into the ignition, sends out a signal. The signal is sent to an immobilizer to determine that the key is right to allow the car to start. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became an issue that many manufacturers put this transponder security system into their vehicles for safety and insurance reasons.
If you own a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key could be through a dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Before you go note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). It is located on the front of the dashboard or door jamb in the 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 to accurately duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on-site using a precision cutting machine. If your key is equipped with a blade, a fob, or a thick grey/black head it will need to be programmed to your car before you can use it to start the motor.