Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all been there - your car keys won't turn on the ignition. It could happen at the worst possible time, such as when you're filling your car with groceries or returning home from work.
There are many different solutions that can bring you back on the way. Here are some common automotive key problems and their solutions:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most common reason a car owner can't start their vehicle. Straightening the key is a simple fix. It might sound easy, but it is important to do it carefully. The key is very thin and even bending it one degree can cause it to break.
To accomplish this, you will need an area with a solid foundation, as well as pliers. Hold the key at the other end using the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on a flat surface or in a vice. Then, you can put it in the lock to determine if it will turn.
If not, it may be time to have a new key cut. This will avoid having to call a locksmith, and will ensure that your key will work.
Keep a spare key in your purse so you're not without access to your vehicle if yours breaks.
If you are experiencing issues with a broken or bent key, you can try applying grease on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will enable it move more easily through the cylinder and stop it from getting stuck. You can apply graphite or spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray to get an even more precise application. This will also help prevent moisture from damaging your key.
Stuck pins and springs
Sometimes a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring may become stuck. Pins are a tiny piece of metal that is 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 using your fingers or the wrench.
If you own an older car that uses microchip keys it is likely that the key needs 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 for assistance with your vehicle locks or keys! We can repair or replace every vehicle key.
Gear selector
If your car's gear selector gets stuck in park mode, it's important to bring it to a mechanic right away. This is a safety issue and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This issue could also indicate larger issues with the transmission system itself, which can be costly to repair.
Most times the issue is fixable. The most frequent reason the gear selector may be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped off or become uncoupled from the lever itself. This is a simple fix and the mechanic can usually fix it within a few minutes.
In certain instances, the bushings of the gear selector could be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that go around articulation points in the gear system to aid in making it shift more smoothly. These covers work similarly to the cartilage in your joints, which is why they need to be healthy and flexible.
It's not unusual for them to wear out over time, however there are some ways to prolong their life. First, repair broken car key should stay clear of using the gear selector in extremely cold weather. The cables for controlling the gear can freeze and break. You should also replace the bushings using premium quality ones, like the ones from First Line.
These bushings are an important part of your gear selector and should not go unnoticed. If you notice that yours is damaged it is best to visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They will help you locate the ideal parts to restore your gear selector apparatus. They also provide a variety of other services like maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you switch the key in the ignition and you hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. Most batteries last between three and five years and as they age, they go through a natural process that causes them to end up dying prematurely. This is due to the negative plates of your car battery will start to be coated with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery may also cause your vehicle to lose electrical power, which could cause the radio to stop working or electric window becoming unresponsive. If you've had difficulty starting your car during cold weather, it could be a sign you require a new battery.
It's possible that your problem is not an issue with your battery, but rather an issue with the charging system. This issue can be solved by having your mechanic verify that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables all work properly.
Another common automotive key repair is the key fob that has stopped working properly. The key fob is a tiny device that connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system may become confused or stop communicating with your car if it is exposed to harsh temperatures or gets wet.
It is usually possible to reset the lost key fob following the instructions provided in the owner's guide. 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 fob it may need to professionally programmed which requires the help of technicians. It's worth trying these simple methods before you buy a new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder which when inserted into ignition, transmits a signal. This signal tells an immobilizer whether the key is in the right place to allow the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft became a major problem. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system due to security and insurance reasons.
If you own a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key may be through the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Before you go, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number can be found on the dashboard, the door jamb, or in the owner's manual.
Bring your current working key along to a participating AutoZone store, and an associate will employ a machine to trace the contours of your key blank to accurately duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on the spot using a precision cutting machine. If your key is a blade-style or key fob or has a hefty grey or black head on it, it'll have to be programmed to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.