A Brief History Of The Evolution Of Automotive Key Repair
Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all experienced this when the car's key doesn't engage in the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're filling up your trunk with groceries or when you're returning home from work.
Instead of panicking There are many solutions to get you back on the road. Here are a few common automotive key repair problems and possible solutions:
Broken or bent key
The most common reason the owner of a car is unable to start their car is a bent key. Straightening the key is an easy fix. It might sound easy, but it is important to do this carefully. The key is very thin and bending it just one degree can cause it to break.
You will need a stable work surface and a pair pliers for this. Grab the key on one end with the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface or in a vise. Then, you can put it in the lock to determine whether it turns.
If not, it could be time to have a new key cut. You don't have to contact a locksmith and your key will work.
It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your pocket, so you don't have an entry point into your vehicle in the event of a lost key.
If you are experiencing issues with a bent or broken key, try putting some lubrication on it before inserting it into the lock. This will allow it to move through the cylinder, and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use a spray graphite or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray for a more precise application. This will also stop moisture from damaging your device.
Spring pins and springs with pins
A pin (also known as a roll pin, or a spring) can sometimes become stuck. Pins are a tiny 2 to 3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends, which are used to connect two 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 an older car that uses a microchip key it is possible that the key needs to be programmed to work with your car. This procedure can be easy or complex depending on the manufacturer and car.
Call us if you need assistance with your car keys or locks! We can repair, replace or programme nearly any key for your vehicle.
Gear Selector
It's crucial to take your vehicle to a mechanic as fast as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a safety concern and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This could also be a sign that your transmission system is experiencing bigger problems, which are costly to repair.
Luckily, most of the time, this issue is easily fixable. The most common reason the gear selector may be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped off or disconnected from the lever itself. The mechanic can fix this issue in a matter of minutes.
In some cases the gear selector bushing could be damaged or worn out. Rubber covers are positioned around the points of articulation of the gear system in order to make it more fluid. They work in a similar manner to cartilage in your knees, so it's important that they remain healthy and flexible.
You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few simple things. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector in very cold temperatures. The gear control cables can freeze and break. It is recommended to replace the bushings using premium quality ones, such as those from First Line.
These bushings form an important part of your gear selector and should not go unnoticed. If you notice that yours is damaged you must visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They will help you locate the right parts to restore your gear selector device. They can also offer a variety of other services, including transmission maintenance and service.
If you turn your key into the ignition and hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo an natural process that causes them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will start to be coated with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery could cause your vehicle to lose power, which could cause the radio to stop working or electric window becoming unresponsive. If you've had trouble starting your car in cold weather this could be a sign you require an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes, your issue might not be a dead battery, but a problem with 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 properly.
Another common automotive key repair is a key fob that isn't working properly. The key fob is a small device that connects to the vehicle's computer and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. The system could be confused or stop communicating if it is wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
It is possible to reset the lost key fob following the instructions provided in the owner's guide. Based on the model it will require opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve the issue, your device may require professional programming, which requires the help of an expert. However, it's still worth attempting these steps before deciding to pay for a new device.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder, which, when inserted into the ignition, transmits an indication. This signal informs the immobilizer inside the car if the key is the correct one to allow it to start. In the 1990s, car theft became a major problem. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system to ensure security and insurance reasons.
If you have a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your keys is at 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's front or door jamb in the owner's manual.
Bring your working key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site with a precise cutting machine. If the key you are using has a blade, a fob or a large grey or black head it will need to be programmed for your car before you can start the motor.