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 turn on the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're filling up your car with groceries or on your way home from work.
Instead of panicking, there are several different options to get you back on the road. Here are some common key issues with cars and solutions:
Broken or bent keys
A bent
remote key repair near me is the most common reason why a
car key repair near me owner is unable to start their vehicle. This can be easily fixed by simply straightening the key. This may seem simple but be cautious. The key is very thin and may break if you bend it even slightly.
You will need a stable 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. It is best to do this on an even surface or in a vice. Then, you can put it into the lock to see if it changes.
If not, you could need to have a new key made. There is no have to contact a locksmith and your key will function.
Keep an extra key in your purse so you don't have the ability to get into your vehicle if it is damaged.
If you're experiencing problems with a bent or broken key, you can try applying lubrication on it before trying to insert it into the lock. This will allow it to move easier through the cylinder and prevent it from getting stuck. It is possible to use a spray graphite or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray for an even more precise application. This will also help to keep moisture from damaging your key.
Stuck pins or springs
A pin (also known as a roll pin or spring) can sometimes become 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 two parts of machines. In the majority of instances, you can take out a pin by simply pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.
If you own an older car that is equipped with a microchip key, it is possible that the key will need to be programmed in order to function with your car. This process can be simple or complex depending on the manufacturer and car.
Contact us for assistance with your car keys or locks! We can repair, replace or program almost every key for your vehicle.
Selector for gears
If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, it's important to get it checked by an expert mechanic immediately. It's a security issue and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This can also be a sign of more serious issues in the transmission system itself, which can be expensive to fix.
Most times the issue is fixable. The most common reason the gear selector can get stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped, or disconnected from the lever itself. This is a simple fix and a mechanic will usually complete the task in a couple of minutes.
In some cases the bushings on the gear selector could be damaged or worn. The rubber covers are put around the points of articulation of the gear system in order to make it more fluid. They perform the same function to cartilage in your knees, so it's important that they stay healthy and flexible.
You can extend the life of your gear selector by doing a few basic things. You should avoid the gear selection during extremely cold temperatures. The cables that control the gears can freeze and break. You should also replace the bushings with premium quality ones, like the ones from First Line.
These bushings are an essential part of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to go to an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They will help you locate the right parts to fix your gear selector device. They can also offer a range of other services, including transmission service and maintenance.
Dead battery
If you switch the ignition on and hear nothing but a click then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through a natural process which causes them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will start 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 electric windows to malfunction. If you've been having difficulties starting your car in cold weather, this could be a sign that you require a new battery.
Sometimes, your issue might not be due to a dead battery, but rather an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. Your mechanic should verify that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all working correctly can resolve this issue.
A key fob that is not working properly is another common automotive key repair. The key fob connects to the computer in your car and relays signals as well as commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system may become confused or stop communicating if it gets wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.
It is usually possible to reset the lost key fob following the directions in the owner's guide. Depending on the vehicle it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronic devices on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this does not fix your fob it may require professional programming, that will require the assistance of technicians. Try these easy methods before you buy the new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with an embedded transponder chip in them. It transmits an electronic signal to a receiver within the ignition when inserted. This signal tells the immobilizer on the car if it is the right one to be used for starting. In the 1990s, theft of vehicles became an issue that many manufacturers fitted this transponder security system in their vehicles for safety and insurance purposes.
If you own a brand new vehicle, the only way to replace your keys is to go to the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go make a note of the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number can be found on the dashboard, the door key repair near me (
king-bookmark.stream) jamb, or in the owner's manual.
Bring your current key to an participating AutoZone store and a representative will employ a machine to trace the contours of the
key repair shops near me blank to accurately duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on the spot with a precise cutting machine. If your key is blade-style or key fob or has a large black or grey head, it'll need to be programmed to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.