10 Fundamentals About Automotive Key Repair You Didn't Learn In The Classroom
Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all been there - your car key refuses to turn in the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient moments, like when you're loading your trunk with groceries, or returning home from work.
There are many solutions to help you get back on your way. Here are some common automotive key repair issues and possible solutions:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most frequent reason a car owner can't start their vehicle. This can be easily fixed by simply straightening the key. It might sound easy but it's important to do it carefully. The key is very thin and could break if bent even a little.
You will need a stable work surface and a pair of pliers for this. Grab one end of the key with the pliers, and then bend it back until it is straight. This is best done on a flat surface or in a vise. You can then put it inside the lock to see if it changes.
If not, you could need to have a new one created. You don't need to call a locksmith and your key will work.
Keep an extra key in your pocket so you're not without access to your vehicle in the event that your key breaks.
If you have trouble inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying grease to it. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder and also prevent it from becoming stuck. It is possible to use a spray graphite powder or lubricant. If you're using a spray ensure you attach the plastic tubing included with it for 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) may become stuck. Pins are small 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends that are used to connect 2 parts of a machine. In the majority of cases, you can remove a nut by pulling it off using your fingers or the wrench.
If you have an older car that uses a microchip key it is possible that the key will need to be programmed to work with your car. repair car keys near me can be easy or complicated depending on the car's manufacturer and model.
If you need assistance with your car keys or locks, give us call! We are able to repair, replace or program almost every vehicle key.
Gear Selector
If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, you need to bring it to a mechanic right away. It's a safety issue and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This could also be a sign that your transmission is experiencing more serious issues, which can be costly to repair.
Fortunately, the majority of the time this problem can be easily fixed. Most of the time, the cable end that is connected to the lever may snap or become disconnected. The mechanic can fix this in a few minutes.
In certain instances the gear selector bushing can become damaged or worn out. Rubber covers are positioned around the articulation points of the gear system to ensure that it is fluid. They function in a similar way to cartilage in your knees so it's important that they stay healthy and flexible.
You can extend the life of your gear selector by doing a few easy things. It is best to avoid the gear selection in extremely cold weather. This is because the gear control cables tend to freeze and cracking. You should also replace the bushings with high quality ones, such as those from First Line.
These bushings are an important component of your gear selector, and should not be ignored. If you find that yours is worn out, it's a good idea to visit an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They will help you locate the ideal parts to fix your gear selector apparatus. They can also provide you with a range of other services, like transmission service and maintenance.
Dead battery
If you turn your key into the ignition but you don't hear anything but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through an natural process that causes them to die prematurely. This is due to the negative plates of your car battery will start to be coated with crystals of sulfate.
A dead battery may also cause your vehicle to lose electrical power, which could cause the radio to stop working or electric window becoming unresponsive. If you have been having difficulty starting your car during cold weather this could be a sign that you require a new battery.
Sometimes, the issue may not be due to a dead battery, but rather a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. This issue can be solved by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all functioning properly.
Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is a key fob that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob connects to the computer in your car and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system could be confused or stop communicating if it is wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
You can usually reset the lost key fob by following the directions in the owner's manual. Depending on your vehicle, you may need to open and close the doors, switch lights and other electronic devices off and on and press a particular sequence of buttons, or shut and open the windows. If this doesn't solve your fob it may need to professionally programmed which will require the services of technicians. Try these easy methods before you buy the new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder which when it is inserted into the ignition, transmits the signal. This signal tells an immobilizer that the key is right for the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft became an issue. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system for safety and insurance reasons.
If you own a brand new 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 go. This number is usually found on the dashboard, the door jamb, or in an owner's manual.
Bring your current working key with you to an participating AutoZone store and an associate will use a machine to trace the contours of your blank key to accurately duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on the spot by a cutting machine that is precise. If your key has a blade, a fob, or a thick grey or black head, it will need to be programmed for your car before you can start the motor.