10 Things We All Hate About Automotive Key Repair

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 on the ignition. It can happen at the worst possible time, such as when you are loading your car with groceries or returning home from work.
There are a variety of solutions to help you get back on your way. Here are some common key issues in the automotive industry and their solutions:
Broken or bent keys
The most frequent reason an owner of a car cannot start their car is a bent key. Straightening the key is a simple fix. It may sound simple but it's important to do it carefully. The key is very thin, and bending it even a little can cause it to break.
To accomplish this, you'll need an area that is stable, as well as a pair of pliers. Grab one end of the key using the pliers and bend it until it is straight. This should be done on a flat surface, or in a vise. You can then place it inside the lock to see if it changes.
If not, you may need to have a new one made. You don't have to contact a locksmith and your key will still work.
It's a good idea keep a spare in your pocket so that you don't end up without an entry point into your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.
If you're having difficulty inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying lubricant to it. This will allow it to move through the cylinder, and prevent it from becoming stuck. car key repairs near me can use graphite or spray lubricant. If using a spray, be sure to attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure an easier application. This will also stop water from destroying your key.
Spring pins and springs that are stuck
Sometimes a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring can get stuck. Pins are a tiny 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends used to connect two components of machines. In the majority of instances, you can take out pins by pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.
If you own an older car that uses a microchip key, it is possible that the key will need to be programmed to work with your car. This process can vary depending on the manufacturer and car.
If you need assistance with your car keys or locks, give us call! We can repair or replace any vehicle key.
Gear Selector
It's crucial to take your vehicle to a mechanic as quickly as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a security issue and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This could be a sign that the transmission system is experiencing bigger issues, which can be costly to fix.
Most times the issue is fixable. The most common reason that the gear selector could get stuck is that one of the cable ends has snapped off or separated from the lever itself. The mechanic can fix this within a couple of minutes.
In certain instances, the bushings of the gear selector may be damaged or worn. The rubber covers are put around the points of articulation of the gear system to ensure that it is fluid. These rubber covers function similarly to the cartilage that you have in your joints, which is why they need to be healthy and flexible.
You can extend their life by doing a few basic things. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector in extremely cold weather. The cables for controlling the gear can freeze and crack. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, such as the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings form an important component of your gear selector and shouldn't be overlooked. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a great idea to go to an auto repair shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the right parts to fix your gear selection device. They can also offer a range of other services, including transmission service and maintenance.
Dead battery
If you turn on your key in the ignition and you hear nothing except a click, your battery is dead. The majority of batteries last between three and five years, and as they age they go through natural processes that cause them to end up dying early. This is due to the negative plates inside the battery of your car will begin to become coated with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery could cause your vehicle to lose electrical power, which can cause the radio to stop working or electric window malfunctioning. If you have been having trouble starting your car in cold weather, this could be a sign that you require an upgrade to your battery.
It is possible that your issue is not caused by an unresponsive battery but a malfunction in the charging system. This issue can be solved by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables all work correctly.
A key fob that is not functioning properly is another common automotive key repair. The key fob is a small unit that connects to the vehicle's computer and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. The system could become confused or stop communicating if it is wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.
Follow the instructions in the owner's guide to reset a lost keyfob. Based on the vehicle you have, you may need to open and close the doors, turn the lights and other electronic devices on and off, press a certain sequence of buttons, or even shut and open the windows. If this does not fix the issue, your device may need to professionally programmed which will require the services of an expert. But it's still worthwhile to try these easy steps before deciding to pay for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys include a transponder chip embedded in them that sends an electronic signal to a receiver inside the ignition when they are inserted. The signal informs an immobilizer if the key is correct to allow the car to start. In the 1990s theft of cars became such an issue that the majority of manufacturers fitted 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 could be through a dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle before you go. You can find this number on the dashboard, the door jamb, or in an owner's manual.
Bring your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will use a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using a precise cutting machine onsite. If your key is a blade style or a key fob or has a thick grey or black head, it will need to be programmed to the specific car you own before it can be used to start the engine.