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 could occur at the worst moment, like when you are loading your car with groceries or returning home from work.
Instead of panicking instead, there are a variety of options to get you back on the road. Here are a few common automotive key problems and their solutions:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most common reason a car owner can't start their vehicle. This can be fixed by simply straightening the key. It may sound simple but it's important to do it carefully. The key is very 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 then bend it back until it is straight. It is best to do this on an even surface or in a vice. You can then put it into the lock to see if it turns.
If not, you could need to have a new one made. You don't need to call a lock-smith and your existing key will function.
It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your pocket so that you don't end up without a way into your vehicle in the event of a lost key.
If you're having issues with a broken or bent key, you can try applying oil on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will allow it to move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray to ensure the most precise application. This will also help keep moisture from damaging your key.
Stuck pins or springs
Sometimes, a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring could get stuck. Pins are a tiny 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends, which are 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 vehicle that has a microchip key, it is possible that the key needs to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This process can vary depending on the car and manufacturer.
Call us if you need assistance with your car keys or locks! We can repair, replace, or program almost any vehicle key.
Gear Selector
If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, it's important to bring it to a mechanic as soon as you notice it. This is a safety concern and you could cause serious vehicle damage if continue driving. This could be a sign that the transmission system is experiencing bigger issues, which can be costly to repair.
Fortunately, the majority of the time this problem can be fixed easily. The most frequent reason the gear selector could get stuck is that one of the cable ends has snapped, or separated from the lever itself. The mechanic can fix this issue in a matter of minutes.
In certain instances, the bushing of the gear selector may be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that cover articulation points in the gear system to aid in making it shift more smoothly. They function in a similar way as cartilage in your knees so it's crucial that they stay healthy and supple.
You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few easy things. You should avoid the gear selection in extremely cold temperatures. The gear control cables can freeze and crack. You should also replace your bushings, for instance the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are a critical component of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you notice yours is worn out you must visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you in finding the correct parts to repair your gear selection apparatus. They can also provide various other services, such as maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn your key into the ignition and you hear nothing other than a click, your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo an natural process that causes them to die early. This is due to the negative plates of the battery in your car begin to become coated by sulfate crystals.
A dead battery could cause your car to lose electrical power, which could lead to the radio or electric window malfunctioning. If your car has been having problems getting started in cold weather, this is a good sign that it's time for a new battery.
It's possible that your issue is not due to an unresponsive battery but a malfunction in the charging system. This issue can be solved by having your mechanic verify that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are working properly.
Another common repair for a key in the automotive is an ignition key that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob connects to your vehicle's computer and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system could become confused or cease communicating with your car if it is exposed to extreme temperatures or is wet.
Follow the instructions in your owner's guide to reset the lost keyfob. Based on the vehicle you have you may have to open and close the doors, switch lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing repair keys near me a specific sequence of buttons, or close and open the windows. If this doesn't solve your fob, it might need to be professionally programmed, which will require an expert. But it's still worth attempting these steps before deciding to pay for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys include a transponder chip built into them that transmits a signal to a receiver within the ignition when it is inserted. The signal is sent to an immobilizer to determine if the key is correct for the car to begin. In the 1990s, car theft was an issue. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system due to safety and insurance reasons.
If you have a brand newer vehicle, the only way to replace your key may be at the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Before you go, write 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 store and an associate will use a machine to trace the contours of your key blank to precisely replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site by a cutting machine that is precise. If your key is blade-style or key fob or has a large grey or black head on it, it'll require programming to the specific car you own before it can be used to start the engine.