5 Laws Thatll Help In The Automotive Key Repair Industry
Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all had this experience when the car's key doesn't engage in the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient moments, like when you're loading your trunk with groceries, or on your way to home from work.
There are many different solutions to help you get back on your way. 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 why car owners are unable to start their car. It can be repaired by simply bending the key. This may sound simple but it's important to do this carefully. The key is extremely thin and even bending it small enough could cause it to break.
To do this, you'll need an area that is stable, as well as pliers. Pick up one end of the key with the pliers and bend it back until it is straight. It is best to do this on a flat surface or in a vice. Then, you can put it in the lock to determine whether it will turn.
If not, you could need to have a new key made. You will not need to call a lock-smith and your key will function.
It's a good idea keep a spare in your pocket, so that you don't have access to your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.
If you're having issues with a bent or broken key, try putting some grease on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will help it to move easier through the cylinder and prevent it from getting stuck. You can apply graphite or spray lubricant. If using a spray, ensure that you attach the plastic tubing included with it for a more precise application. This will also stop water from destroying your device.
Pins that are snuck or springs
Sometimes a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring could become stuck. A pin is a small 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends used to connect 2 parts 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 is equipped with a microchip key it is possible that the key will need to be programmed to function with your car. This procedure can differ based on the car and manufacturer.
If you need help with your automotive keys or locks, give us a call! We can repair, replace, or program almost any vehicle key.
Gear Selector
It's important to get your car to a mechanic as soon as you can when the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a safety concern and could lead to serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. This issue could also indicate bigger problems with the transmission itself, which could be expensive to fix.
Most times this issue is easily fixable. Most often, the cable that is connected to the lever could snap or come uncoupled. This is a simple fix and a mechanic should be able to make it within a few minutes.
In certain instances there are instances where the gear selector bushing may become damaged or worn out. These are rubber coverings that go around articulation points in the gear system to aid in making it shift more smoothly. These covers work similarly to the cartilage in your joints, so they need to be healthy and flexible.
It is not uncommon for them to degrade over time, but there are a few ways to prolong their life. You should first avoid using the gear selection during extremely cold weather. This is because the cables that control the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, like ones made by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings form an important element of your gear selector, and should not go unnoticed. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a great idea to visit an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the right parts to restore your gear selection apparatus. They can also offer various other services, including maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn the key in the ignition and hear only a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through natural processes that cause them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will start to become coated with sulfate crystal deposits.
A dead battery can also cause the loss of electrical power within your vehicle and cause the radio or electric windows to stop working. If you've been having difficulties starting your car in cold weather, this could be a sign you require an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes, your issue might not be a dead battery, but a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. Having your mechanic check to verify that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are working correctly can resolve this problem.
Another common repair for a key in the automotive is the key fob that has stopped working properly. The key fob is a small device that connects to the vehicle's computer and relays commands and signals between the engine and accessory systems. car keys repair can be confused or stop communicating if it gets wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.
Follow the directions in the owner's guide to reset the keyfob that was lost. Based on the vehicle you have, you may need to open and close the doors, turn the lights and other electronic devices off and on by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or open and shut the windows. If this doesn't fix your fob, it might need to be professionally programmed, which will require a special technician. It's worth trying these simple techniques before buying an entirely new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder that when it is inserted into the ignition, transmits a signal. This signal informs the immobilizer inside the car whether the key is the right one to allow it to start. In the 1990s, car theft became an issue. remote key fob repair installed this transponder system due to safety and insurance reasons.
If you own a newer car, the only way to replace your key could be through a dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Before you go there, write 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 your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. A representative will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with an exact cutting machine in-store. If your key is blade style, a key fob, or has a thick black or grey head, it will need to be programmed to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.