7 Simple Tricks To Refreshing 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: the car key won't engage the ignition. It can happen at the worst possible time, such as when you're loading your car with groceries or heading home from work.
There are many different solutions that can get you back on your way. Here are a few common key issues in the automotive industry and solutions:
Broken or bent keys
The most common reason the owner of a car is unable to start their vehicle is a bent key. This can be fixed by simply straightening the key. This may sound simple however it is crucial to do it with care. The key is extremely thin and even bending it small enough could cause it to break.
To do this, you will need an area that is stable, as well as a pair of pliers. Take the key on one end with the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. This is best done on a flat surface, or in a vise. Then, you can put it in the lock to see if it will turn.
If not, you may require a new one created. This will prevent you from having to contact a locksmith and will ensure your key works.
Keep an extra key in your purse so you're not left without access to your vehicle if yours breaks.
If you're having difficulty inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying some grease to it. This will allow it move more easily through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can apply graphite or spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray to ensure an even more precise application. This will also prevent moisture from damaging your device.
Pins that are snuck or springs
Sometimes a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring can get stuck. A pin is a small piece of steel that measures between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long with hollow ends. It is used to connect two pieces of a machine. In the majority of cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it out using 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 in order to function with your car. This can be a simple or complicated depending on the manufacturer and car.
If you require assistance with your car keys or locks, give us call! We can repair, replace, or program nearly any key for your vehicle.
Gear Selector
If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, it's important to bring it to a mechanic as soon as you notice it. It's a security issue and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This could also be a sign that your transmission system is having bigger issues, which can be costly to repair.
Most times this issue is easily fixable. The most common reason that the gear selector may get stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped or become uncoupled from the lever itself. The mechanic can fix this in a few minutes.
In some instances, the bushings of the gear selector might be damaged or worn. The rubber covers are put around the joints of the gear system to keep it fluid. These covers function similar to cartilage joints, which is why they require to be flexible and healthy.
It is not uncommon for them to wear out in time, but there are some things you can do to prolong their life. First, you should avoid using the gear selector in extremely cold temperatures. The cables for controlling the gear can freeze and crack. It is recommended to replace the bushings with premium quality ones, like those from First Line.
These bushings form an essential element of your selection of gears and shouldn't be ignored. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a great idea to go to an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you in finding the right parts to restore your gear selection device. They also provide many other services like transmission maintenance and service.
Dead battery
If you turn on your key in the ignition and hear nothing but a click, then 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 prematurely. nearby key repair shop of your car battery will start to become coated with sulfate crystal deposits.
A dead battery can cause your car to lose power, which could 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.
Sometimes your problem might not be due to a dead battery, but rather an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. This issue can be fixed by having your mechanic check that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all functioning properly.
Another common automotive key repair is the key fob that isn't working properly. The key fob connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system may become confused or stop communicating with your car when it is exposed extreme temperatures or is wet.
You can usually reset a lost key fob by following the steps in the owner's manual. Depending on the vehicle it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronic devices on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix your device, it could require professional programming, that will require the assistance of technicians. It's worth trying these simple steps before you decide to shell out for a new device.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys include a transponder chip built into them. It transmits an electronic signal to a receiver in the ignition when they are inserted. The signal informs an immobilizer if the key is correct for the car to start. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became such an issue that many manufacturers installed this transponder security system into their vehicles for security and insurance purposes.
If you have a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your keys is at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go make a note of the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This can be found on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in the owner's manual.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member 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 using an exact cutting machine in-store. If your key is equipped with an edge, a fob or a thick head that is grey or black it will need to be programmed to your car before you can start the motor.