Be On The Lookout For: How Automotive Key Repair Is Taking Over And How To Stop It
Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all had this experience - the car key won't engage in the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, like when you're filling your car with groceries or on your way home from work.
Instead of panicking There are many solutions to get you back on the road. Here are a few common key issues with cars and their solutions:
Broken or bent keys
The most frequent reason a car owner cannot start their car is a bent key. Straightening the key is a simple fix. This might seem easy however, you need to be cautious. The key is extremely thin and bending it just a little can cause it to break.
You'll need a sturdy work surface as well as a pair of pliers to do this. Pick up one end of the key using the pliers, and then bend it back until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface or in a vise. After that, you can place it inside the lock to test if it will turn.
If not, it may be time to get a new key cut. This will save you from needing to call a locksmith and can ensure that your key will function.
Keep a spare key in your pocket to ensure you're not without a way to enter your vehicle in the event that your key is damaged.
If you are experiencing issues with a broken or bent key, try putting some oil on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder, and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. If using a spray, be sure to attach the plastic tubing included with it for a more precise application. This will also help keep moisture from damaging your key.
Stuck pins or springs
A pin (also called a roll pin, or a spring) can become stuck. Pins are small 2 to 3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends, which are used to connect two parts of machines. In most cases, you can remove pins by simply pulling it out using your fingers or using 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 vehicle. This procedure can differ based on the car and manufacturer.
If you require assistance with your keys for your vehicle or locks, give us a call! We can repair, replace or program almost every vehicle key.
Gear selector
It's crucial to take your car to a mechanic as fast as you can when the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a security issue and you could cause serious vehicle damage if continue driving. This could also be a sign that your transmission system is having bigger issues, which can be costly to fix.
Most of the time the issue is fixable. The cable that is connected to the lever can snap or break off. This is a simple fix and a mechanic should be able to complete the task in a couple of minutes.
In some instances, the bushings on the gear selector might be damaged or worn. The rubber covers are put around the articulation points of the gear system in order to keep it fluid. They perform the same function as cartilage in your knees, therefore it is important to ensure that they stay healthy and supple.
You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few easy things. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector in extremely cold weather. car key fob repairs near me that control the gears can freeze and crack. You should also replace your bushings, like those made by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are an essential element of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you find that yours is damaged you must visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you to locate the ideal parts to fix your gear selector apparatus. They also offer various other services, including transmission maintenance and service.
Dead battery
If you switch the key in the ignition and hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. Most batteries last between three and five years and as they get older, they undergo an natural process that causes them to end up dying early. The negative plates of your car battery will start to be covered with sulfate crystal deposits.
A dead battery may cause you to lose the electrical power in your vehicle and cause the radio or the electric windows to stop working. If your car has been experiencing problems starting in cold weather, this could be an indication that it is time for an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes, your issue might not be caused by a dead battery, but rather an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. Having your mechanic check to make sure that the serpentine belt, alternator, and battery cables are functioning properly can solve this problem.
Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is an ignition key that has stopped working properly. The key fob is a tiny device that connects to the computer in the vehicle and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. The system could be confused or stop communicating if it becomes wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.
Follow the instructions in your owner's guide to reset a lost keyfob. Depending on the vehicle it will require opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronics on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your fob, it could need to be professionally programmed and will require an expert. It's worth trying these simple methods before you buy a new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys have a transponder chip embedded in them that transmits signals to a receiver within the ignition when inserted. This signal tells an immobilizer that the key is right for the car to begin. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became a problem that most manufacturers put this transponder security system into their vehicles to ensure safety and insurance purposes.
If you own a brand new vehicle, the only option to replace your keys is to go to the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car before you leave. This can be found on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in your owner's manual.
Bring your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member will make use of a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key in order to accurately duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using a precise cutting machine onsite. If your key is a blade type or a key fob or has a large black or grey head, it'll have to be programmed to the specific car you own before it can be used to start the engine.