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 in the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient moments, like when you're filling your trunk with groceries or returning to home from work.
There are a variety of solutions to bring you back on the way. Here are some common key issues with cars and their solutions:
Broken or bent key
A bent key is the most common reason why a car owner is unable to start their vehicle. It can be repaired by simply straightening the key. This may seem simple, but you must be careful. The key is extremely thin and bending it just a little can cause it to break.
You will need a stable work surface and a pair pliers to accomplish this. Grab one end of the key using the pliers and bend it back until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface, or in a vise. You can then place it into the lock to see if it changes.
If not, you may require a new one created. This will save you from having to contact a locksmith and will ensure your key will function.
Keep an extra key in your pocket to ensure you don't have access to your vehicle in the event that your key breaks.
If you have trouble inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying some grease to it. This will help it to move easier through the cylinder and stop it from getting stuck. It is possible to use a spray graphite powder or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray to get an even more precise application. This will also prevent water from destroying your key.
Pins that are snuck or springs
Sometimes, a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring can become stuck. Pins are small 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends that are used to connect 2 parts of an equipment. In the majority of instances, you can take out a pin by simply pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.
If you have an older car that uses microchip keys it is likely that the key will need to be programmed to work with your car. This can be a simple or complicated depending on the manufacturer and car.
Contact us if you require assistance with your car keys or locks! We can repair or replace every key for your vehicle.
Selector for gears
It is essential to take your car to a mechanic as soon as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a security issue, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This could also indicate more serious issues in the transmission system that could be expensive to fix.
Most of the time this issue is easily fixable. The most common reason the gear selector could be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped, or disconnected from the lever itself. This is a simple fix and the mechanic can usually make it within a few minutes.
In some instances, however, the gear selector bushing may become damaged or worn out. These are rubber coverings that go around articulation points within the gear system to help it shift more fluidly. They perform the same function as cartilage in your knees, so it's important that they stay healthy and supple.
You can extend their life by doing a few easy things. You should avoid the gear selection in very cold temperatures. The gear control cables can freeze and break. You should also replace the bushings with premium quality ones, such as the ones from First Line.
These bushings form an important element of your gear selector and should not go unnoticed. 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 can assist you to locate the ideal parts to repair the gear selector mechanism. They can also provide a range of other services, such as maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn your key in the ignition and hear nothing except a click, your battery is dead. The average battery lasts between three and five years, and as they age, they undergo natural processes that cause them to end up dying prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be covered with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery can also cause the loss of the power source in your car, causing the radio or electric windows to malfunction. If you have been having difficulty starting your car during cold weather, this could be a sign you require a new battery.
Sometimes, the issue may not be caused by a dead battery, but a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. This issue can be solved by having your mechanic check that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are working correctly.
A key fob that's not working properly is another common automotive key repair . The key fob is a tiny device that connects to the vehicle's computer and relays commands and signals between the engine and accessory systems. This system can become confused or stop communicating if it becomes wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
Follow the instructions in the owner's manual to reset a lost keyfob. Based on the vehicle you have it may be necessary to open and close the doors, turn the lights and other electronic devices off and on, press a certain sequence of buttons, or even open and shut the windows. If this doesn't solve your fob, it could need to be professionally programmed and will require a special technician. It's worth trying these simple methods before you buy the new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder that when it is inserted into the ignition, sends out the signal. The signal is sent to an immobilizer to determine that the key is right for the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft became a major issue. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system to ensure safety and insurance reasons.
If you have a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your keys is to go to the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car prior to you go. This number is usually found on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in the owner's manual.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will employ a machine which 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 the key you have is a blade style or key fob or has a thick black or grey head on it, it'll have to be programmed to the specific car you own before it can be used to start the engine.