How To Get More Results Out Of 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 engage the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, like when you're loading your trunk with groceries, or on your way home from work.
There are a variety of solutions that can get you back on your way. Here are some common automotive key repair issues and their possible solutions:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most common reason why a car owner is unable to start their car. It can be fixed by simply straightening the key. It may sound simple however it is crucial to do it carefully. The key is very thin, and bending it even one degree can cause it to break.
To do this, you'll need an area with a solid foundation, as well as pliers. Grab the key at the other end using the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. This should be done on a flat surface or in a vise. Then, you can put it inside the lock to determine whether it will turn.
If not, it could be time to have a new key cut. You will not need to call a lock-smith and your key will still work.
It's a good idea to keep a spare in your pocket so that you don't have an entry point into your vehicle in the event of a lost key.
If you have trouble inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying lubricant to it. car key repair near me will enable it move more easily through the cylinder and prevent it from getting stuck. You can use a spray lubricant or graphite powder. If using a spray, be sure to attach the plastic tubing that came with it for a more precise application. This will also help prevent moisture from ruining your key.
Stuck pins and springs
A pin (also known as a roll pin, or a spring) may become stuck. A pin is a small 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends, which are used to connect two parts of an equipment. In the majority of instances, it is possible to remove a pin by simply pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.
If you have an older vehicle that has a microchip key it is possible that the key will need to be programmed to function with your car. This procedure can be easy or complex depending on the car's manufacturer and model.
If you need assistance with your car keys or locks, give us a call! We can repair, replace or program almost any vehicle key.
Gear Selector
If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, it's crucial to get it checked by a mechanic right away. This is a safety concern and you could cause serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. This issue could also indicate more serious issues in the transmission system itself, which can be costly to repair.
Luckily, most of the time this problem can be easily fixed. The cable that is connected to the lever may snap or come uncoupled. The mechanic can fix this in a few minutes.
In some instances the gear selector bushing may become damaged or worn out. These are rubber coverings that cover joints within the gear system to help it move more smoothly. They function in a similar way as cartilage in your knees therefore it is important to ensure that they stay healthy and supple.
It's not unusual for them to wear out in time, but there are some ways to prolong their life. First, you should avoid using the gear selector during extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables controlling the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. It is recommended to replace the bushings with high quality ones, like the ones from First Line.
These bushings form an important part of your gear selector, and should not go unnoticed. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to visit an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the right parts to fix your gear selection apparatus. They also offer various other services such as transmission maintenance and service.
Dead battery
If you turn your key in the ignition but you don't hear anything except a click, your battery is dead. The average battery lasts between three and five years and as they age they go through 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 crystals.
A dead battery can also cause you to lose the power source in your car which can cause the radio or the electric windows to fail. If you've had trouble starting your car in cold weather, this could be a sign that you need an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes, your issue might not be due to a dead battery, but rather an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. This problem can be resolved by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables all work correctly.
Another common repair for a key in the automotive is an ignition key 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. This system can become confused or stop communicating if it gets submerged or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
Follow the instructions in your owner's guide to reset a lost keyfob. Depending on the type of vehicle it will require 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 fob, it might need to be professionally programmed and will require a special technician. It's worth trying these simple methods before you buy a new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder, which when it is inserted into the ignition, transmits an indication. This signal tells an immobilizer if the key is correct for the car to start. In the 1990s, theft of vehicles became such an issue that the majority of manufacturers fitted this transponder security device in their vehicles for 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. Before you visit note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the dashboard, in the door jamb or in the owner's manual.
Bring car key repair near me to a participating AutoZone store, and an associate will employ machines to trace the contours of your blank key to accurately duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using an exact cutting machine on site. If the key you have is a blade-style or key fob or has a large black or grey head on it, it'll have to be programmed to the specific car you own before it can be used to start the engine.