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 in the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're loading your trunk with groceries or when you're returning to home from work.
There are a variety of solutions to bring you back on the way. Here are a few of the most common car key repair issues and their possible solutions:
Broken or bent keys
The most common reason an owner of a car cannot start their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is a simple fix. It might sound easy however it is crucial to do it carefully. The key is extremely thin and may break if you bend it even slightly.
You will need a stable work surface as well as a pair of pliers for this. Grab the key at the other end using the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on an even surface or in a vice. You can then put it inside 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 call a locksmith, and will ensure that your key will function.
Keep a spare key in your purse so you're not left without a way to enter your vehicle in the event that your key breaks.
If you're having difficulty inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying some grease to it. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder, and will prevent it from getting stuck. You can apply graphite or spray lubricant. If you are using a spray, ensure you attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure an easier application. This will also help to stop moisture from ruining your key.
Pins that are snuck or springs
Sometimes, a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring could become stuck. Pins are 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 an equipment. In the majority of instances, it is possible to remove pins by pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.
If you have an older car that is equipped with a microchip key it is likely that the key will need to be programmed in order to function with your car. This process is different based on the model of car and the manufacturer.
Call us if you need assistance with your car locks or keys! We can repair, replace or programme virtually any car key.
Gear selector
It is essential to take your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as you can when the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a safety concern and could lead to serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. This could also be a sign that your transmission is experiencing more serious problems that are expensive to fix.
car key repair service of the time this issue is easily fixable. The most common reason that the gear selector could get stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped or separated from the lever itself. This is a simple fix and a mechanic should be able to complete the task in a couple of minutes.
In certain instances the gear selector bushing could be damaged or worn out. Rubber covers are positioned around the articulation points of the gear system to ensure that it is fluid. They function in a similar way as cartilage in your knees, so it's important that they stay in good shape and soft.
It's not uncommon for them to degrade in time, but there are a few things you can do to extend their life. You should avoid the gear selection in very cold weather. The cables for controlling the gear could freeze and crack. You should also replace the bushings using premium quality ones, such as the ones from First Line.
These bushings form an essential component of your gear selector and should not be overlooked. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a great idea to go to an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you in finding the right parts to restore your gear selection apparatus. They can also offer various other services, including maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you switch the ignition on but 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 because the negative plates inside the battery in your car begin to be coated with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery can also cause the loss of electrical power within your vehicle which can cause the radio or the electric windows to fail. If you have been having difficulties starting your car in cold weather, it could be a sign that you need an upgrade to your battery.
It's possible that the issue is not caused by an unresponsive battery but an issue with the charging system. Your mechanic should make sure that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are working properly could solve this issue.
A key fob that's not functioning properly is another common issue with automotive keys. The key fob connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays signals as well as commands between the engine and the accessory systems. This system can get confused or stop communicating with your vehicle if it is exposed to extreme temperatures or gets wet.
Follow the instructions in your owner's guide to reset the lost keyfob. Based on the vehicle you have, you may need to open and close the doors, turn the lights and other electronic devices off and on and press a particular sequence of buttons, or even open and shut the windows. If this does not fix your fob it may require professional programming, which will require the services of technicians. It's worth trying these simple techniques before purchasing a new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys have a transponder chip embedded in them that sends an electronic signal to a receiver inside the ignition when they are inserted. The signal informs an immobilizer that the key is right for the car to start. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became such an issue that the majority of manufacturers put this transponder security system into their vehicles for safety and insurance purposes.
If you own a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your keys could be at the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle before you leave. This number is usually found on the dashboard's front, door jamb, or in your owner's manual.
Bring your current key along to a participating AutoZone store and an associate will employ an instrument to trace the contours of your blank key to accurately replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site with a precise cutting machine. If the key you are using has a blade, a fob or a large grey or black head it must be programmed for your vehicle before you can use it to start the motor.