10 Things We All Hate About Automotive Key Repair
Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all experienced this - the car key won't turn in the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient moments, like when you're filling your trunk with groceries, or when you're returning to home from work.
Instead of panicking, there are several different options to get you back on the road. Here are some common automotive key problems and solutions:
Broken or bent key
A bent key is the most frequent reason a car owner can't start their vehicle. Straightening the key is a simple fix. It may sound simple but it's important to do it carefully. The key is very thin and bending it just one degree can cause it to break.
To accomplish this, you'll require an area with a solid foundation, as well as an plier. Pick up one end of the key with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on an even surface or in a vice. After that, you can place it in the lock to test whether it turns.
If not, you may need to have a new one made. This will prevent you from needing to call a locksmith and will ensure that your key works.
It's a good idea keep a spare in your pocket, so you don't find yourself without 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 lubricant to it. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder and will prevent it from getting stuck. Spray graphite or lubricant. If you are using a spray, ensure that you attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure an easier application. This will also help keep moisture from damaging your key.
Stuck pins and springs
A pin (also known as a roll pin, or a spring) may become stuck. A pin is a small 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends used to connect two parts of a machine. In most cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.
If you own an older car that is equipped with a microchip key, it is possible that the key will need to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This process can vary 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 programme nearly any key for your vehicle.
Gear Selector
It is essential to take your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety concern and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. key fob repair near me could also be a sign that your transmission system is experiencing bigger problems that are expensive to fix.
Luckily, most times, this issue can be easily fixed. The most frequent reason the gear selector can be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped off or disconnected from the lever itself. The mechanic can fix this within a couple of minutes.
In certain instances, the bushing of the gear selector may be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that are placed around the joints within the gear system to help it shift more fluidly. These covers work similarly to the cartilage in your joints, and therefore require to be healthy and flexible.
It's not uncommon for them to wear out in time, but there are some ways to prolong their life. The first is to avoid using the gear selector in extremely cold weather. The cables for controlling the gear could freeze and crack. You should also replace your bushings, like ones made by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings form an essential part of your selection of gears and shouldn't be overlooked. If you find that yours is worn out, it's a great idea to go to an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the right parts to restore your gear selection apparatus. They also provide many other services such as maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you switch the ignition key and hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo natural processes that cause them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be covered with sulfate crystalline deposits.
A dead battery may also cause your car to lose power, which could cause the radio to stop working or electric window malfunctioning. If your car is having issues beginning in cold weather, it is a good sign that it is time for an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes your problem might not be caused by a dead battery, but rather a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. This issue can be solved by having your mechanic check that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are working correctly.
Another common automotive key repair is a key fob that isn't working properly. The key fob is connected to the computer in your vehicle, and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. The system could become confused or stop communicating with your car when it is exposed to harsh temperatures or gets wet.
It is usually possible to reset a lost key fob by following the directions in the owner's manual. Depending on the type of vehicle it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronics on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this does not fix your device, it could require professional programming which will require the services of an expert. But it's still worthwhile to try these easy steps before you decide to shell out for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder, which, when inserted into the ignition, sends out an indication. The signal informs an immobilizer that the key is right for the car to begin. In the 1990s theft of cars became such a problem that most manufacturers put this transponder security system into their vehicles to ensure safety and insurance reasons.
If you own a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your key may be through a dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Before you visit note down 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 key along to a participating AutoZone store and an associate will use an instrument to trace the contours of your blank key to accurately duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with an exact cutting machine on site. If your key is equipped with an edge, a 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.