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 engage in the ignition. It can occur at the most inconvenient moment, for instance, when you're filling your car with groceries or returning home from work.
There are many solutions that can get you back on your way. Here are a few common key issues in the automotive industry and solutions:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most frequent reason why car owners are unable to start their vehicle. It can be repaired by simply straightening the key. It may sound simple however it is crucial to do this carefully. The key is very thin, and bending it even one degree can cause it to break.
To do this, you'll require an area with a solid foundation, as well as an plier. Hold the key on one end with the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on the floor or in a vice. You can then put it into the lock to see if it changes.
If not, it could be time to have a new key cut. There is no need to call a lock-smith and your key will function.
Keep an extra key in your pocket to ensure you're not left without a way to enter your vehicle in the event that your key is damaged.
If you are experiencing issues with a bent or broken key, you can try applying grease on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will allow it to move through the cylinder, and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can apply graphite or spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray for a more precise application. This will also help to prevent moisture from ruining your key.
Pins that are snuck or springs
A pin (also known as a roll pin, or a 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 used to connect 2 parts of a machine. In most cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.
If you have an older car that is equipped with microchip keys it is possible that the key needs to be programmed to function with your car. This process can vary depending on the car and manufacturer.
Call us if you need assistance with your vehicle locks or keys! We can repair, replace, or program almost any vehicle key.
Gear Selector
It's important to get your vehicle to a mechanic as fast as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a safety issue and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This could be a sign that your transmission is experiencing more serious issues, which can be costly to fix.
Luckily, most times, this issue is easily fixable. The cable that is connected to the lever can snap or become disconnected. This is a simple fix and a mechanic will usually fix it within a few minutes.
In certain instances the gear selector bushing may be damaged or worn out. These are rubber covers that cover joints within the gear system, allowing it move more easily. They function in a similar way to cartilage in your knees, so it's crucial that they remain in good shape and soft.
You can extend their life by doing a few easy things. You should avoid the gear selection in extremely cold temperatures. The gear control cables can freeze and break. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, for instance ones made by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are a critical component of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you find that yours is worn out, it's a good idea to go to an auto repair shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help you locate the right parts to restore the gear selector mechanism. They can also provide you with a range of other services, like maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you switch the ignition on and you hear only a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo natural processes that cause them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will start to be coated with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery could cause your vehicle to lose power, which can result in the radio or electric window malfunctioning. If key repair car has been having problems beginning in cold weather, it is a good sign that it is time for a new battery.
It's possible that the problem is not an unresponsive battery but an issue with the charging system. This issue can be fixed by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables all work properly.
A key fob that's not functioning properly is another common automotive key repair. The key fob is a small device that connects to the vehicle's computer and relays commands and signals between the engine and the accessory systems. The system may become confused or stop communicating with your car when it is exposed to harsh temperatures or gets wet.
Follow the directions in your owner's guide to reset the keyfob that was lost. Depending on your vehicle 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 close and open the windows. If this does not fix the issue, your device may require professional programming which requires the help of an expert. However, it's still worth trying these simple steps before deciding to pay for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder chip embedded in them. It transmits signals to a receiver in the ignition when it is inserted. This signal tells an immobilizer that the key is right for the car to start. In the 1990s, theft of vehicles became an issue that the majority of manufacturers fitted this transponder security system into their vehicles to ensure safety and insurance reasons.
If you own a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your keys could be at the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Before you go there note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This can be found on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in the owner's manual.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member will make use of a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key in order to precisely duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with a precise cutting machine onsite. If your key is blade style, a key fob, or has a thick grey or black head on it, it'll need to be programmed to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.