Automotive Key Repair: A Simple Definition
Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all experienced this - the car key won't turn in the ignition. It could happen at the worst possible time, such as when you're loading your car with groceries or driving home from work.
There are many different solutions to help you get back on your way. Here are some common automotive key repair issues and solutions for them:
Broken or bent keys repair
A bent key is the most frequent reason why a car owner is unable to start their vehicle. Straightening the key is a simple fix. This may seem simple but be cautious. The key is very thin and may break if bent even slightly.
To do this, you'll require a stable workspace, and pliers. Pick up one end of the key using the pliers and bend it back until it is straight. It is best to do this on the floor or in a vice. Then, you can place it inside the lock to see whether it turns.
If not, it may be time to get a new key cut. This will prevent you from having to contact a locksmith and can ensure that your key will work.
Keep an extra key in your pocket so you're not without access to your vehicle if yours breaks.
If you are experiencing issues with a bent or broken key repair shop, try applying some grease on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will allow it to move easier through the cylinder and stop it from getting stuck. You can use a spray graphite powder or lubricant. If you're using a spray be sure to attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure more precise application. This will also help to stop moisture from ruining your key.
Pins that are snuck or springs
Sometimes, a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring can become stuck. Pins are small 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends that are used to connect 2 parts of a machine. In most cases, you can remove a nut by pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench.
If you own a brand new vehicle that is equipped with a key with a microchip inside, there is an opportunity for the key to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This process can be simple or complex depending on the car's manufacturer and model.
If you require assistance with your keys for your vehicle or locks, give us call! We can repair or replace every key for your vehicle.
Gear Selector
If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, it's crucial to bring it to a mechanic as soon as you notice it. It's a safety issue, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This could also be a sign that the transmission system is having bigger issues, which can be costly to repair.
Luckily, most times, this issue can be fixed easily. The most frequent reason the gear selector can get stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped, or separated from the lever itself. This is a simple fix, and a mechanic will usually complete the task in a couple of minutes.
In some instances, the bushing of the gear selector could be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that are placed around the articulation points in the gear system to help it shift more easily. These rubber covers function similarly to the cartilage that you have in your joints, which is why they must be flexible and healthy.
You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few easy things. The first is to avoid using the gear selector during extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables controlling the gear tend to freeze and cracking. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, such as those made by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings form an important part of your gear selector, and shouldn't be overlooked. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to visit an auto repair shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the correct parts to repair your gear selection device. They can also provide various other services, such as maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn your key into the ignition but you don't hear anything other than a click, your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo an natural process that causes them to die early. This is due to the negative plates of the battery in your car begin to become coated by sulfate crystals.
A dead battery could cause the loss of electrical power within your vehicle and cause the radio or the electric windows to malfunction. If your car keys repair near me is having problems starting in cold weather, this is a good sign that it is time for a new battery.
It's possible that the issue is not caused by an unresponsive battery but an issue with the charging system. Having your mechanic check to ensure that the serpentine belt, alternator and battery cables are working correctly can resolve this issue.
A key fob that is not functioning properly is another common issue with automotive keys. The key fob is a tiny device that connects to your computer in the vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and the accessory systems. This system can be confused or cease communicating if it gets submerged or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
Follow the instructions in your owner's guide to reset the lost keyfob. Depending on the type of vehicle it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronics on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix your fob it may need to professionally programmed which requires the help of technicians. It's worth trying these simple techniques before buying an entirely new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder chip built into them. It transmits signals to a receiver in the ignition when inserted. This signal tells an immobilizer whether the key is in the right place to allow the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft became a major issue. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system for safety and insurance reasons.
If you own a brand new vehicle, the only way to replace your keys is to go to the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go there note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in an owner's guide.
Bring your current working key to a participating AutoZone store, and an associate will use machines to trace the contours of the mobile key repair near me blank to precisely replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site using a precision cutting machine. If your key is a blade type or a key fob or has a hefty grey or black head, it'll have to be programmed to your specific car before it can be used to start the engine.
