11 "Faux Pas" That Are Actually OK To Create With Your Automotive Key Repair
Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all been there - your car keys won't turn on the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're filling your car with groceries or on your way home from work.
There are many different solutions that can help you get back on your way. Here are some of the most common key issues with cars and their solutions:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most frequent reason a car owner can't start their vehicle. It can be repaired by simply bending the key. This may sound simple, but it is important to do it with care. The key is extremely thin and bending it just small enough could cause it to break.
To do this, you'll need a stable workspace, and pliers. Hold the key on one end with the pliers, and bend it until it is straight. This is best done on a flat surface, or in a vise. You can then place it inside the lock to see if it turns.
If not, you could need to have a new one made. This will avoid needing to contact a locksmith and will ensure your key will function.
Keep a spare key in your pocket to ensure you don't have access to your vehicle if yours is damaged.
If you are experiencing issues with a broken or bent key, try putting some grease on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will allow it move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from getting stuck. It is possible to use a spray graphite or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray for the most precise application. This will also stop moisture from damaging your important.
Spring pins and springs with pins
A pin (also called a roll pin or a spring) may get stuck. Pins are a tiny 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends, which are used to connect 2 parts of a machine. In most cases, you can remove pins by simply pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.
If you have a newer vehicle that is equipped with an electronic key with a microchip inside, there is an opportunity for the key to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This process can be simple or complicated depending on the manufacturer and car.
If you require assistance with your automotive keys or locks, give us call! We can repair, replace or program virtually any car key.
Selector for gears
It's important to get your car to a mechanic as soon as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety issue, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This problem can also be a sign of bigger problems in the transmission system itself, which could be expensive to fix.
Most of the time this issue is easily fixable. Most often, the cable end that is connected to the lever can snap or become disconnected. The mechanic can repair this in a few minutes.
In certain instances there are instances where the gear selector bushing may become damaged or worn out. Rubber covers are placed around the joints of the gear system to ensure that it is fluid. They function in a similar way to cartilage in your knees so it's crucial that they remain healthy and supple.
It's not unusual for them to degrade in time, but there are a few ways to extend their lifespan. The first is to avoid using the gear selector in very cold temperatures. 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 form an essential part of your selection of gears and shouldn't be overlooked. If key fob repair service find that yours is worn out, it's a good idea to visit an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the right parts to fix your gear selection device. They also offer various other services like transmission maintenance and service.
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 undergo a natural process which causes them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be covered with sulfate crystalline deposits.
A dead battery may cause the loss of the power source in your car which can cause the radio or the electric windows to malfunction. If your car is experiencing problems getting started in cold weather, it is a good sign that it's time to get an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes your problem might not be caused by a dead battery, but an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. This problem can be resolved by having your mechanic check that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all functioning correctly.
Key fobs that are not functioning properly is a common automotive key repair. The key fob is a tiny unit that connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and the accessory systems. The system could become confused or cease communicating with your car when it is exposed to extreme temperatures or is wet.
You can usually reset the lost key fob following the steps in the owner's manual. Depending on the type of vehicle, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronics on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your device, it could require professional programming, which requires the help of an expert. It's worth trying these simple methods before you buy an entirely new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys include a transponder chip embedded in them that transmits signals to a receiver in the ignition when inserted. This signal informs the immobilizer on the car if the key is the correct one to be used for starting. In the 1990s, theft of vehicles became such an issue that many manufacturers put this transponder security system into their vehicles to ensure safety and insurance purposes.
If you have a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your keys is at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go there make a note of the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). You can find this number on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in an owner's guide.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the 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 has an edge, a fob, or a thick head that is grey or black it must be programmed to your car before you can use it to start the motor.