The Top 5 Reasons People Win At The Automotive Key Repair Industry
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 engage the ignition. It can occur at the most inconvenient time, such as when you're loading your trunk full of groceries or returning home from work.
There are a variety of solutions that can bring you back on the way. Here are a few common key issues with cars and solutions:
Broken or bent key
A bent key is the most common reason why car owners are unable to start their car. This can be easily repaired by simply straightening the key. This may seem simple however, you need to be cautious. The key is extremely thin and even bending it a little can cause it to break.
You'll need a solid work surface and a pair of pliers for this. Pick up one end of the key with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. This is best done on a flat surface or in a vise. Then, you can place it inside the lock to see if it will turn.
If not, you may need to have a new one made. You will not have to contact a locksmith and your key will function.
Keep a spare key in your pocket so you're not left without the ability to get into your vehicle if it breaks.
If you are experiencing issues with a broken or bent key, try applying some lubrication on it before trying to insert it into the lock. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming 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 keep moisture from damaging your key.
Pins that are snuck or springs
Sometimes, a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring can become stuck. Pins are a tiny 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 parts of an equipment. In the majority of instances, you can take out a pin by simply pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench.
If you own a brand new car that has keys with microchips in it, there's a chance the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your car. This procedure can be easy or complex depending on the manufacturer and car.
If you need help with your car keys or locks, give us a call! We can repair, replace, or program almost any vehicle key.
Gear Selector
If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, it's important to take it to a mechanic right away. This is a security issue and could result in serious vehicle damage if continue driving. This could be a sign that the transmission system is experiencing bigger problems, which are costly to repair.
Most times, this problem is easily fixable. Most of the time, the cable end that is attached to the lever can snap or become disconnected. The mechanic can repair this in a few minutes.
In some instances, the bushings on the gear selector might be damaged or worn. These are rubber coverings that are placed around the articulation points in the gear system to aid in making it move more fluidly. These covers function similar to cartilage joints, and therefore need to be healthy and flexible.
You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few simple things. The first is to avoid using the gear selector in very cold weather. This is because the cables that control the gear tend to freeze and cracking. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, like the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are a critical component of your selection of gears and shouldn't be ignored. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a great idea to go to an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help you locate the right parts to fix your gear selector device. They can also offer many other services, including transmission maintenance and service.
Dead battery
If you turn your key in the ignition but you don't hear anything but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo natural processes that cause them to die prematurely. This is due to the negative plates inside the battery of your car will begin to be coated with crystals of sulfate.
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 difficulty starting your car during cold weather, it could be a sign you need an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes, the issue may not be due to a dead battery, but rather a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. This problem can be resolved by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all functioning properly.
A key fob that's not functioning properly is a common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob is a small device that connects to your computer in the vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and accessory systems. This system may be confused or stop communicating if it gets wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
Follow the instructions in the owner's guide to reset the lost keyfob. Depending on the model of your car it may be necessary to open and close the doors, turn lights and other electronic devices off and on by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or even close and open the windows. If this doesn't fix your fob, it might require professional programming by an expert technician. It's worthwhile to try these easy steps before you decide to shell out for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder that, when inserted into the ignition, transmits the signal. This signal informs the immobilizer in the car if the key is the right one to be used for starting. In the 1990s, theft of vehicles became a problem that most manufacturers installed this transponder security device in their vehicles for security and insurance reasons.
If you have a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your keys is at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle before you leave. car key repair cost can be found on the dashboard's front or door jamb in your owner's manual.
Bring your working key to an AutoZone participating store. A representative will use a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key in order to precisely replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with an exact cutting machine on site. If your key is a blade-style, a key fob, or has a thick grey or black head on it, it'll require programming to your specific car before it can be used to start the engine.