(Image: https://g28carkeys.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Lexus.jpg)Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all had this experience when the car's key doesn't turn in the ignition. It can happen at the worst possible moment, like when you are loading your car with groceries or returning home from work.
Instead of panicking, there are several different solutions to get back on the road. Here are some common automotive key repair problems and their possible solutions:
broken car key repair near me or bent key
A bent key is the most common reason why a car owner is unable to start their vehicle. It can be fixed by simply straightening the key. It may appear simple but be careful. The key is very thin and may break if bent even a little.
You'll need a solid work surface and a pair of pliers to do this. Grab the key at one end with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on a flat surface or in a vice. Then, you can place it in the Lock key repair near Me to test if it will turn.
If not, it might be time to have a new key cut. There is no need to call a locksmith and your existing key will work.
It's a good idea to keep a spare in your pocket, so that you don't have access to your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.
If you are experiencing issues with a bent or broken key, try applying some oil on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will enable it move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from getting stuck. You can use 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 prevent moisture from damaging your key.
Stuck pins or springs
Sometimes a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring may get stuck. Pins are small 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends, which are used to connect two parts of an equipment. In the majority of instances, you can take out pins by pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.
If you own an older vehicle that has microchip keys it is likely that the key will need to be programmed in order to function with your car. This procedure can differ based on the manufacturer and car.
Contact us for assistance with your car keys or locks! We can repair, replace, or program nearly any key for your vehicle.
Gear Selector
If your car's gear selector gets stuck in park mode, you need 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 problem could also indicate more serious issues in the transmission system that could be costly to repair.
Fortunately, the majority of the time this problem can be fixed easily. The most frequent reason the gear selector could be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped or separated from the lever itself. This is a straightforward fix and a mechanic will usually fix it within a few minutes.
In some instances, however, the gear selector bushing can get damaged or worn out. These are rubber covers that are placed around the articulation points within the gear system to help it move more smoothly. They perform the same function as cartilage in your knees so it's important that they stay healthy and supple.
It is not uncommon for them to wear out in time, but there are a few things you can do to prolong their life. You should avoid the gear selection in extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables controlling the gear tend to freeze and cracking. You should also replace the bushings using premium quality ones, like those from First Line.
These bushings are an essential element of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you find that yours is worn out, you should visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the right parts to restore your gear selection device. They can also offer a variety of other services like transmission maintenance and service.
Dead battery
If you turn your key in the ignition and hear nothing other than a click, your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo a natural process which causes them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car key repair near me battery will begin to become coated with sulfate crystal deposits.
A dead battery may cause the loss of electrical power within your vehicle and cause the radio or electric windows to fail. If you have been having difficulty starting your car during 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 a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. This problem can be resolved by having your mechanic verify that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables all work correctly.
Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is an ignition key that has stopped working properly. The key fob is connected to your vehicle's computer, and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system could be confused or stop communicating if it is wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.
Follow the instructions in your owner's guide to reset a lost keyfob. Depending on your vehicle you may have to open and close the doors, turn the lights and other electronic devices off and on by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or even open and shut the windows. If this doesn't fix your fob, it might require professional programming and will require an expert. It's worth trying these simple techniques before purchasing the new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder chip embedded in them that sends signals to a receiver in the ignition when inserted. This signal tells an immobilizer whether the key is in the right place for the car to begin. In the 1990s theft of cars became such a problem that most manufacturers installed this transponder security device in their vehicles for security and insurance reasons.
If you own a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your keys is to go to the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car before you leave. This can be found on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in the owner's manual.
Bring your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will use a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key in order to accurately duplicate the original key repair shop. They will then cut the new key using a precise cutting machine onsite. If your key is a blade-style or a key fob or has a hefty grey or black head, it will have to be programmed to your specific car key repairs before it can be used to start the engine.