Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all had this experience - the car key won't turn on the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient times, like when you're filling up your trunk with groceries, or returning to home from work.
Instead of panicking, there are several different solutions to get back on the road. Here are some of the most common key issues with cars and solutions:
Broken or bent key
A bent key is the most common reason why a car owner is unable to start their vehicle. Straightening the key is a simple fix. This might seem easy, but you must be cautious. The key is very thin and even bending it one degree can cause it to break.
You'll need a sturdy work surface and a pair of pliers for this. Pick up one end of the key with the pliers, and then bend it back until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface, or in a vise. You can then place it in the lock to see if it turns.
If not, it may be time to get a new key cut. This will prevent you from having to contact a locksmith and can ensure that your key works.
It's a good idea keep a spare in your pocket, so that you don't have a way into your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.
If you have trouble inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying some oil to it. This will allow it move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use a spray graphite or lubricant. If you're using a spray be sure to attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure more precise application. This will also stop water from destroying your device.
Spring pins and springs with pins
Sometimes a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring could get stuck. A pin is a small piece of steel that measures between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long, with hollow ends. It is used to connect two components of a machine. In most cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.
If you own an older car that is equipped with a microchip key, it is possible that the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your car. This procedure can differ based on the manufacturer and car.
Call us if you need assistance with your automotive keys or locks! We are able to repair or replace every key for your vehicle.
Gear Selector
It's important to get your car to a mechanic as soon as you can when the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety issue and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This issue can also be a sign of bigger problems in the transmission system itself, which can be costly to repair.
Fortunately, the majority of the time, this issue is easily fixable. The most frequent reason the gear selector may get stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped or disconnected from the lever itself. The mechanic can fix this within a couple of minutes.
In some cases, however, the gear selector bushing could be damaged or worn out. Rubber covers are positioned around the joints of the gear system to make it more fluid. These covers function similar to the cartilage in your joints, so they require to be flexible and healthy.
You can extend their life by doing a few basic things. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector in very cold weather. The cables for controlling the gear could freeze and crack. You should also replace the bushings with high quality ones, such as those from First Line.
These bushings form an essential component of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you find that yours is worn out, it's a great idea to visit an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you to locate the right parts to repair the gear selector mechanism. mouse click the next webpage can also offer various other services like transmission maintenance and service.
Dead battery
If you turn your key into the ignition and hear nothing other than a click, your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through natural processes that cause them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be covered with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery can cause your vehicle to lose power, which can cause the radio to stop working or electric window malfunctioning. If you've been having trouble starting your car in cold weather, this could be a sign that you require an upgrade to your battery.
It's possible that the problem is not an issue with your battery, but rather an issue with the charging system. A mechanic's check to ensure that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are functioning properly can solve this issue.
Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is an ignition key that isn't working properly. The key fob is a small device that connects to the computer in the vehicle and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. This system may be confused or cease communicating if it becomes submerged or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
It is possible to reset a lost key fob by following the steps in your owner's manual. Based on the model, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronic devices on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this doesn't work for your fob, it might require professional programming by an expert technician. It's worth attempting these steps before deciding to pay for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder that when it is inserted into the ignition, transmits a signal. The signal informs an immobilizer if the key is correct for the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft became an issue. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system due to security 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 visit 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 current key to an AutoZone store, and an associate will employ an instrument to trace the contours of the key blank to accurately duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using an exact cutting machine on site. If your key has a blade, a fob, or a thick grey/black head, it will need to be programmed for your vehicle before you can use it to start the motor.