We've all had this experience the car keys won't turn in the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're filling up your car with groceries or returning home from work.
Instead of panicking There are many options to get you back on the road. Here are some of the most common key issues with cars and their solutions:
Broken or bent keys
The most common reason the owner of a car is unable to begin their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is a simple fix. It may appear simple, but you must be careful. The key is extremely thin and bending it just one degree can cause it to break.
You will need a stable work surface and a pair of pliers for this. Take one end of the key with the pliers, and then bend it back until it is straight. key fob repair service can be done on a flat surface, or in a vise. Then, you can put it into the lock to see if it turns.
If not, you may need to have a new key made. This will avoid having to contact a locksmith and will ensure that your key will function.
It's a good idea to keep a spare in your pocket, so you don't have an entry point into your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.
If you're having difficulty inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying oil to it. This will enable it move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. If using a spray, be sure to attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure more precise application. This will also help to prevent moisture from ruining your key.
Stuck pins and springs
A pin (also called a roll pin, or a spring) can sometimes become stuck. Pins are a tiny piece of metal that is between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long with hollow ends. It is used to connect two pieces of an equipment. In the majority of cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it out using your fingers or the wrench.
If you have an older car that uses microchip keys it is possible that the key needs to be programmed in order to function with your car. This process can be simple or difficult depending on the manufacturer and car.
If you require assistance with your automotive keys or locks give us a call! We can repair, replace or program virtually any car key.
Gear Selector
If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, it's crucial to take it to a mechanic right away. It's a safety concern and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This could also indicate bigger problems with the transmission system itself, which could be expensive to fix.
Most of the time, this problem is easily fixable. Most of the time, the cable end that is attached to the lever could snap or become disconnected. The mechanic can fix this in a few minutes.
In some instances there are instances where the gear selector bushing could become damaged or worn out. These are rubber covers that cover joints within the gear system to help it move more fluidly. They perform the same function as cartilage in your knees therefore it is important to ensure that they remain healthy and supple.
It's not unusual for them to wear out in time, but there are some things you can do to prolong their life. You should first avoid using the gear selection in very cold weather. The cables for controlling the gear can freeze and break. You should also replace your bushings, like those 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 notice yours is worn out, you should visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. They can assist you in finding the right parts to restore your gear selection apparatus. They can also offer many other services like maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn your key into the ignition and you hear nothing except a click, your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through an natural process that causes them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be coated with sulfate crystal deposits.
A dead battery can cause your vehicle to lose power, which could result in the radio or electric window malfunctioning. If your car is experiencing problems beginning in cold weather, this is a good sign that it's time to get a new battery.
Sometimes your problem might not be a dead battery, but rather a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. A mechanic's check to ensure that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are all working properly could solve this issue.
A key fob that's not working properly is another common automotive key repair. The key fob is a tiny device that connects to your 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 instructions in the owner's guide to reset the keyfob that was lost. Based on the model it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronic devices on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix your fob it may need to professionally programmed that will require the assistance of a technician. Try these easy techniques before purchasing an entirely new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder, which when inserted into ignition, sends out a signal. This signal tells an immobilizer that the key is right to allow the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft became an issue. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system due to safety and insurance reasons.
If you own a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key may be through the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Before you go there make a note of the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number can be found on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in an owner's guide.
Bring your current working key to a participating AutoZone store, and an associate will employ an instrument to trace the contours of your blank key to accurately duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on-site using a precision cutting machine. If the key you are using has blade, fob, or a thick head that is grey or black, it will need to be programmed for your car before you can start the motor.
