Automotive Key Repair Explained In Fewer Than 140 Characters
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 occurs at the most inconvenient moments, like when you're filling your trunk with groceries or when you're returning to home from work.
There are a variety of solutions to get you back on your way. Here are some of the most common key issues in the automotive industry and solutions:
Broken or bent keys
The most common reason a car owner cannot start their vehicle is a bent key. This can be easily repaired by simply straightening the key. This may sound simple, but it is important to do this carefully. The key is very thin and even bending it one degree can cause it to break.
You'll need a sturdy work surface and a pair pliers to do this. Take 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. After that, you can place it in the lock to determine whether it turns.
If not, you may need to get a new one made. You will not need to call a lock-smith and your key will function.
Keep an extra key in your pocket to ensure you're not without access to your vehicle if yours is damaged.
If you're experiencing problems with a broken or bent key, you can try applying grease on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will allow it move more easily through the cylinder and stop it from getting stuck. Spray graphite powder or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray to ensure an even more precise application. This will also help to stop moisture from ruining your key.
Pins that are snuck or springs
A pin (also called a roll pin or spring) can get 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 a machine. In the majority of cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it off using your fingers or the wrench.
If you have an older car that is equipped with microchip keys it is possible that the key needs to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This process is different based on the car and manufacturer.
Call us if you need assistance with your automotive locks or keys! We are able to repair or replace every key for your vehicle.
Gear Selector
It is essential to take your car to a mechanic as fast as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety issue and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This could also be a sign that your transmission system is experiencing bigger issues, which can be costly to fix.
Most of the time, this problem is easily fixable. The cable end that is connected to the lever may snap or come uncoupled. This is a straightforward fix and the mechanic can usually fix it within a few minutes.
In some cases, however, the gear selector bushing can get damaged or worn out. Rubber covers are placed around the joints of the gear system to ensure that it is fluid. They function in a similar way to cartilage in your knees, therefore it is important to ensure that they stay healthy and supple.
It's not uncommon for them to degrade over time, but there are a few things you can do to prolong their life. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector during extremely cold weather. The cables for controlling the gear can freeze and break. You should also replace your bushings, such as ones made by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are an important part of your gear selector, and shouldn't be overlooked. If you notice that yours is worn out it is best to visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. repair car key can assist you in finding the right parts to fix the gear selection system. They can also offer a range of other services, including transmission service and maintenance.
Dead battery
If you turn your key in the ignition and hear nothing other than a click, your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo natural processes that cause them to die prematurely. This is because the negative plates inside the battery of your car will begin to become coated with crystals of sulfate.
A dead battery can also cause the loss of the electrical power in your vehicle and cause the radio or electric windows to stop working. If your car is having problems beginning in cold weather, this is an indication that it is time for a new battery.
It's possible that the problem is not an unresponsive battery but an issue with the charging system. This problem can be resolved by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are all functioning correctly.
A key fob that's not functioning properly is a common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob is a tiny unit that connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and the accessory systems. The system could become confused or cease communicating with your car when it is exposed extreme temperatures or is wet.
It is possible to reset the lost key fob by following the steps in the owner's manual. Depending on the model of your car it may be necessary to open and close the doors, turn lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or even close and open the windows. If this doesn't fix your device, it could need to professionally programmed which requires the help of technicians. Try these easy methods before you buy the new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder, which when inserted into ignition, sends out the signal. The signal informs the immobilizer inside the car if the key is the correct one for it to start. In the 1990s, car theft became an issue. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system to ensure safety and insurance reasons.
If you own a newer vehicle, the only option to change your keys is to visit the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car before you leave. This can be found on the front of the dashboard or door jamb in the owner's manual.
Bring your current working key along to an AutoZone store and a representative will use machines to trace the contours of the key blank to accurately replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with an exact cutting machine on site. If the key you have is a blade type, a key fob, or has a thick grey or black head, it'll have to be programmed to your specific car before it can be used to start the engine.