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 engage in the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're loading your trunk with groceries, or returning home from work. There are many solutions that will get you back on your way. Here are some common automotive key repair problems and their possible solutions: Broken or bent keys A bent key is the most common reason a car owner can't start their car. It can be repaired by simply straightening the key. This may sound simple but it's important to do it with care. The key is very thin and bending it just one degree can cause it to break. You'll need a solid work surface as well as a pair of pliers to do this. Grab the key on one end with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on a flat surface or in a vice. Then, you can put it in the lock to see if it changes. If not, it could be time to have a new key cut. This will prevent you from needing to contact a locksmith and will ensure that your key works. It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your pocket, so you don't find yourself without a way into your vehicle in the event of a broken key. If you have trouble inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying some lubricant to it. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. Spray lubricant or graphite powder. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray for the most precise application. This will also help to keep moisture from damaging your key. Stuck pins and springs A pin (also called a roll pin, or a spring) can sometimes become stuck. A pin is a small 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends used to connect 2 parts of an equipment. In the majority of cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench. If you have an older car that is equipped with microchip keys, it is possible that the key will need to be programmed to function with your car. This can be a simple or complicated depending on the car's manufacturer and model. Call us if you need assistance with your car locks or keys! We can repair, replace, or program almost any vehicle key. Selector for gears It is essential to take your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety issue and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This could also indicate larger issues with the transmission itself, which could be expensive to fix. Luckily, most of the time this problem can be fixed easily. The most common reason the gear selector can get stuck is that one of the cable ends has snapped or disconnected from the lever itself. The mechanic can fix this in a few minutes. In certain instances, the bushing of the gear selector may be damaged or worn. These are rubber coverings that go around joints within 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 remain healthy and flexible. It's not unusual for them to wear out over time, however there are some things you can do to prolong their life. You should avoid the gear selection in very cold weather. This is because the cables controlling the gear are prone to freezing and cracking. It is recommended to replace the bushings with high quality ones, like those from First Line. These bushings form an important component of your gear selector and shouldn't be overlooked. If key fob repairs near me find that yours is wearing out, it's a great idea to visit an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help you locate the ideal parts to fix your gear selector apparatus. They can also provide you with various other services, including maintenance and service for your transmission. Dead battery If you turn your key into the ignition and you hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo an natural process that causes them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will start to be coated with sulfate crystal deposits. A dead battery may also cause your vehicle to lose electrical power, which could lead to the radio or electric window not working properly. If your car is having issues starting in cold weather, this is a good sign that it's time to get a new battery. It's possible that the issue is not due to an issue with your battery, but rather an issue with the charging system. This problem can be resolved by having your mechanic verify that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are all functioning correctly. Key fobs that are not functioning properly is another common automotive key repair. The key fob is connected to your vehicle's computer and relays signals as well as commands between the engine and the accessory systems. This system can be confused or stop communicating if it gets wet or exposed to extreme temperatures. Follow the directions in the owner's guide to reset a lost keyfob. Depending on the type of vehicle it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronic devices on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix your fob, it might need to be professionally programmed and will require a special technician. Try these easy techniques before buying the new fob. Ignition socket Modern car keys have a transponder chip built into them that sends an electronic signal to a receiver within the ignition when it is inserted. The signal informs an immobilizer that the key is right for the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft was an issue. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system to ensure security and insurance reasons. If you own 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 car prior to you go. This can be found on the dashboard's front, door jamb, or 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 to precisely duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site by a cutting machine that is precise. If your key has blade, fob or a large grey/black head, it will need to be programmed for your vehicle before you can start the motor.
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