Three Greatest Moments In Automotive Key Repair History
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 can occur at the most inconvenient moment, for instance, when you're filling your trunk full of groceries or heading home from work.
There are a variety of solutions that can get you back on your way. Here are some common key issues in the automotive industry and solutions:
Broken or bent key
A bent key is the most frequent reason a car owner can't start their car. This can be fixed by simply straightening the key. It may appear simple however, you need to be cautious. The key is very thin and even bending it one degree can cause it to break.
You'll need a sturdy work surface as well as a pair of pliers for this. Hold mobile key repair on one end with the pliers, and bend it until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface or in a vise. Then, you can put it in the lock to test whether it will turn.
If not, it may be time to have a new key cut. You will not have to contact a locksmith and your existing key will function.
Keep an extra key in your purse so you're not left without access to your vehicle if yours breaks.
If you have trouble inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying grease to it. This will enable it to move easier through the cylinder and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite as a spray lubricant. If using a spray, be sure to attach the plastic tubing included with it for more precise application. This will also stop moisture from damaging your device.
Stuck pins and springs
A pin (also known as a roll pin or a spring) may become stuck. A pin is a small piece of metal that is between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long with hollow ends. It is used to connect two pieces of an equipment. In most cases, you can remove pins by simply pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench.
If you have a newer vehicle that is equipped with keys with microchips inside, there is an opportunity that the key has to be programmed in order to work with your car. This can be a simple or complex depending on the car's manufacturer and model.
If you require assistance with your automotive keys or locks give us a call! We can repair, replace or program almost every key for your vehicle.
Gear Selector
If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, it's crucial to take it to a mechanic right away. It's a safety concern and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This could also be a sign that the transmission is experiencing more serious problems, which are costly to repair.
Most times this issue is easily fixable. The most common reason that the gear selector can be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped, or separated from the lever itself. This is a simple fix and a mechanic should be able to complete the task in a couple of minutes.
In certain instances, the bushings of the gear selector could be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that go around joints within the gear system, allowing it shift more easily. These rubber covers function similarly to the cartilage that you have in your joints, and therefore must be flexible and healthy.
You can extend their life by doing a few simple things. You should first avoid using the gear selection during extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables that control the gear tend to freeze and cracking. It is recommended to replace the bushings with high quality ones, such as those from First Line.
These bushings are a critical component of your selection of gears and shouldn't be ignored. If you notice yours is worn out you must visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the right parts to fix the gear selection system. They can also provide you with a range of other services, including maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you switch the key in the ignition and hear only a click, then your battery is dead. The majority of batteries last between three and five years, and as they age they go through an natural process that causes them to end up dying early. This is because the negative plates of your car battery will start to be coated with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery may cause you to lose electrical power within your vehicle and cause the radio or the electric windows to malfunction. If you've had difficulty starting your car during cold weather, it could be a sign that you need an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes, the issue may not be a dead battery, but rather a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. A mechanic's check to ensure that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are all working properly could solve this issue.
A key fob that is not functioning properly is a common automotive key repair. The key fob is a tiny device that connects to your 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 submerged or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
Follow the steps in your owner's guide to reset a lost keyfob. Depending on the vehicle, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix your fob it may need to professionally programmed that will require the assistance of an expert. But it's still worthwhile to try these easy steps before you decide to shell out for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder which when it is inserted into the ignition, sends out the signal. The signal is sent to an immobilizer to determine whether the key is in the right place to allow the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major issue. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system due to safety and insurance reasons.
If you have a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your keys could be through the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle before you leave. This number is usually found on the dashboard, in the door jamb or in the owner's manual.
Bring your current key along to an participating AutoZone store and an associate will utilize machines to trace the contours of the key blank to accurately duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site by a cutting machine that is precise. If your key has a blade, a fob or a thick grey/black head it must be programmed for your car before you can use it to start the motor.