Do Not Forget Automotive Key Repair: 10 Reasons Why You Don't Need It
Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all been there - the car key won't turn in the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, like when you're filling up your trunk with groceries or when you're returning to home from work.
Rather than panic There are many solutions to get you back on the road. 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 straightening the key. This may seem simple however, you need to be careful. The key is extremely thin, and bending it even small enough could cause it to break.
You'll need a solid work surface and a pair of pliers for this. Hold the key at the other end using the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on an even surface or in a vice. Then, you can put it in the lock to determine whether it turns.
If not, you might need to get a new one made. You will not need to call a lock-smith and your existing key will work.
Keep a spare key in your pocket so you don't have access to your vehicle if it is damaged.
If you're having issues with a broken or bent key, you can try applying oil on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder and will prevent it from getting stuck. Spray graphite powder or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray for the most precise application. This will also help keep moisture from damaging your key.
Spring pins and springs with pins
A pin (also called a roll pin or spring) can sometimes become stuck. A pin is a small piece of metal that measures between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long with hollow ends. It is used to connect two components of a machine. In most cases you can remove a nut by pulling it off using your fingers or a wrench.
If you own an older car that uses microchip keys it is likely that the key will need to be programmed in order to work with your car. This can be a simple or complicated depending on the manufacturer and car.
Contact us for assistance with your vehicle locks or keys! We can repair, replace or programme almost any vehicle key.
Gear Selector
It's crucial to take your vehicle to a mechanic as soon 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 problem is also a sign of more serious issues in the transmission system itself, which can be costly to repair.
Fortunately, the majority times, this issue can be easily fixed. Most of the time, the cable end that is attached to the lever may snap or come uncoupled. This is a simple fix and a mechanic should be able to fix it in a couple of minutes.
In certain instances, the bushings on the gear selector could be damaged or worn. These are rubber coverings that cover articulation points in the gear system to help it move more smoothly. They perform the same function as cartilage in your knees, so it's important to keep them healthy and supple.
It's not unusual for them to degrade over time, but there are a few things you can do to prolong their life. The first is to avoid using the gear selector in very cold weather. The gear control cables could freeze and crack. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, such as those made by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings form an essential component of your selection of gears and shouldn't be overlooked. If you notice that yours is worn out, you should visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. These experts can help you find the perfect parts to repair your gear selector apparatus. They also provide a variety of other services like maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn on your key in the ignition but you don't hear anything but a click, then your battery is dead. The majority of batteries last between three and five years and as they get older, they undergo natural processes that cause them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will start to be covered with sulfate crystalline deposits.
A dead battery could cause you to lose electrical power within your vehicle and cause the radio or the electric windows to stop working. If you have been having difficulties starting your car in cold weather, it could be a sign you require an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes your problem might not be due to a dead battery, but a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. This issue can be solved by having your mechanic verify that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are working correctly.
A key fob that's not working properly is another common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob connects to the computer in your car, and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. auto key repair may become confused or cease communicating with your car if it is exposed to extreme temperatures or gets wet.
Follow the directions in the owner's manual to reset a lost keyfob. Depending on the model of your car you may have to open and close the doors, turn lights and other electronic devices off and on by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or even shut and open the windows. If this does not fix the issue, your device may require professional programming that will require the assistance of a technician. But it's still worth trying these simple steps before you decide to shell out for a new device.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder which when inserted into ignition, transmits a signal. The signal informs an immobilizer if the key is correct for the car to begin. In the 1990s, theft of cars 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 note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). It is located on the dashboard's front or door jamb in your owner's manual.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member will use a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key to accurately duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with a precise cutting machine onsite. If the key you are using has blade, fob or a thick grey/black head it will need to be programmed to your car before you can start the motor.