Automotive Key Repair: 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 been there: your car keys 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.
Rather than panic There are many solutions to get back on the road. Here are some common key issues with cars and their solutions:
Broken or bent key
The most frequent reason a car owner cannot start their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is an easy fix. This might seem easy however, you need to be cautious. The key is thin and could break if you bend it even slightly.
You'll need a sturdy work surface as well as a pair of pliers for this. Take one end of the key with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on the floor or in a vice. You can then put it inside the lock to see if it changes.
If not, it could be time to have a new key cut. This will prevent you from needing to call a locksmith, and will ensure your key will function.
It's a good idea keep a spare key in your pocket, so you don't have a way into your vehicle in the event of a lost key.
If you are experiencing issues with a bent or broken key, try applying some lubrication on it before inserting it into the lock. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use a spray graphite or lubricant. If using a spray, ensure you attach the plastic tubing included with it for more precise application. This will also help prevent water from destroying your device.
Stuck pins or springs
A pin (also called a roll pin or a spring) may become stuck. Pins are small 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends used to connect two components of machines. In most cases you can take a nut off by pulling it off using your fingers or using a wrench.
If you have an older vehicle that has microchip keys, it is possible that the key needs to be programmed to work with your car. This process can be simple or complicated depending on the car's model and manufacturer.
Call us if you need assistance with your vehicle locks or keys! We can repair, replace or programme virtually any car key.
Selector for gears
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 issue and could result in serious vehicle damage if continue driving. This is also a sign of bigger problems with the transmission system itself, which can be costly to repair.
Fortunately, the majority of the time this problem can be fixed easily. Most often, the cable end that is connected to the lever can snap or break off. This is a simple fix and a mechanic should be able to make it within a few minutes.
In some cases the gear selector bushing can get damaged or worn out. Rubber covers are placed around the articulation points of the gear system to make it more fluid. These covers work similarly to cartilage joints, so they must be healthy and flexible.
It's not uncommon for them to degrade over time, but there are some things you can do to extend their life. It is best to avoid the gear selection in extremely cold weather. The gear control cables can freeze and crack. visit the site is recommended to replace the bushings with high quality ones, such as those from First Line.
These bushings are a critical component of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you notice yours is damaged it is best to visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the correct parts to repair your gear selection apparatus. They can also provide a range of other services, including maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn your key into the ignition and you hear nothing other than a click, your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo natural processes that cause them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be coated with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery can cause your vehicle to lose power, which could cause the radio to stop working or electric window malfunctioning. If you've had trouble starting your car in cold weather this could be a sign that you need a new battery.
It's possible that your issue is not due to a dead battery but a malfunction in the charging system. Your mechanic should ensure that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are all functioning properly can solve this issue.
Another common automotive key repair is the key fob that has stopped working properly. The key fob is connected to your 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.
You can usually reset the lost key fob by following the directions in the owner's guide. Based on the model, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronics on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't work for your fob, it may require professional programming and will require an expert technician. It's worth trying these simple steps before deciding to pay for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys have a transponder chip embedded in them that sends an electronic signal to a receiver inside the ignition when inserted. This signal tells an immobilizer whether the key is in the right place to allow the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft was an issue. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system due to 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. Before you go there make a note of the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in the 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 the key blank to precisely replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on-site using a precision cutting machine. If your key has an edge, a fob, or a thick grey/black head it will need to be programmed for your car before you can use it to start the motor.