10 Things We All Do Not Like About Automotive Key Repair
Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all been there when the car's key doesn't turn on the ignition. It could occur at the worst moment, for instance, when you're filling your trunk with groceries or heading home from work.
There are many different solutions that can bring you back on the way. Here are some common key issues in the automotive industry and their solutions:
Broken or bent keys
The most common reason an owner of a car cannot start their car is a bent key. This can be easily repaired by simply straightening the key. It may appear simple, but you must be cautious. The key is thin and can break if bent even slightly.
You will need a stable work surface and a pair of pliers to do this. Pick up one end of the key with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. This is best done on a flat surface or in a vise. Then, you can put it inside the lock to see if it turns.
If not, it may be time to have a new key cut. There is no need to call a locksmith and your key will still work.
Keep an extra key in your pocket to ensure you're not left without access to your vehicle in the event that your key is damaged.
If you're experiencing problems with a bent or broken key, you can try applying lubrication on it before inserting it into the lock. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder, and will prevent it from getting stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. If you are using a spray, ensure that you attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure more precise application. This will also help keep moisture from damaging your key.
Stuck pins or springs
A pin (also known as a roll pin or spring) may become stuck. Pins are a small piece of steel that measures between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long with hollow ends. It is used to connect two parts of an equipment. In most instances, you can take out pins by pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.
If you own a brand new car that has keys with microchips in it, there's an opportunity for the key to be programmed in order to work with your car. This procedure can differ based on the car and manufacturer.
Call us if you need assistance with your automotive locks or keys! We can repair, replace or program virtually any car key.
Gear Selector
It's important to get your vehicle to a mechanic as fast as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety concern, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This could be a sign that your transmission system is experiencing bigger problems that are expensive to fix.
Fortunately, the majority of the time this problem can be fixed easily. The most frequent reason the gear selector can get stuck is that one of the cable ends has snapped off or become uncoupled from the lever itself. The mechanic can fix this within a couple of minutes.
In certain instances there are instances where the gear selector bushing may get damaged or worn out. These are rubber covers that are placed around the articulation points in the gear system, allowing it shift more fluidly. These rubber covers function similarly to cartilage joints, so they require to be healthy and flexible.
You can extend the life of your gear selector by doing a few simple things. You should avoid the gear selection in extremely cold temperatures. The gear control cables can freeze and break. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, like the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are a critical part of your gear selector and should not be overlooked. If you find that yours is worn out, it's a great idea to go to an auto repair shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the perfect parts to restore your gear selector device. They also offer a variety of other services such as transmission maintenance and service.
Dead battery
If you turn the key in the ignition and hear only a click, then your battery is dead. The majority of batteries last between three and five years, and as they age they go through a natural process that causes them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be covered with sulfate crystal deposits.
A dead battery may cause you to lose electrical power within your vehicle and cause the radio or the electric windows to malfunction. If your car has been having issues beginning in cold weather, this is an indication that it's time to get an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes, the issue may not be a dead battery, but rather a malfunction within 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 working correctly.
Another common automotive key repair is the key fob that has stopped working properly. The key fob is a small device that connects to the computer in the vehicle and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system may become confused or cease communicating with your car when it is exposed to harsh temperatures or gets wet.
Follow the steps in the owner's manual 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 and press a particular sequence of buttons, or even shut and open the windows. If this does not fix your device, it could need to professionally programmed which requires the help of technicians. It's worth attempting these steps before deciding to pay for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder chip built into them that sends an electronic signal to a receiver in the ignition when it is inserted. This signal tells an immobilizer that the key is right for the car to begin. In the 1990s, car theft was a major problem. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system to ensure safety and insurance reasons.
If you own a brand new vehicle, the only option to replace your keys is at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle before you go. G28 Car Keys is located on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in the owner's manual.
Bring your working key to an AutoZone participating store. A representative will make use of a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key in order to precisely duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site using a precision cutting machine. If your key is blade-style or key fob or has a large black or grey head on it, it'll need to be programmed to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.