10 Facts About Automotive Key Repair That Will Instantly Put You In A Good Mood
Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all been there - your car key refuses to engage the ignition. It could happen at the worst possible time, such as when you're filling your trunk with groceries or heading home from work.
Instead of panicking, there are several different options to get you back on the road. Here are a few of the most common automotive key repair issues and their possible solutions:
Broken or bent keys
The most common reason the owner of a car is unable to start their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is a simple fix. It may appear simple however, you need to be careful. The key is very thin and bending it just small enough could cause it to break.
To accomplish this, you will need a stable workspace, and pliers. Take 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. You can then put it inside the lock to see if it changes.
If not, it may be time to have a new key cut. This will avoid needing to contact a locksmith and can ensure that your key will work.
Keep a spare key in your pocket to ensure you're not left without access to your vehicle in the event that your key breaks.
If you are experiencing issues with a broken or bent key, you can try applying grease on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will enable it move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from getting stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. If you are using a spray, ensure you attach the plastic tubing that came with it for a more precise application. This will also stop moisture from damaging your device.
Stuck pins and springs
Sometimes a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring could become 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 components of machines. In the majority of instances, it is possible to remove pins by simply pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.
If you own an older car that uses microchip keys, it is possible that the key needs to be programmed in order to function with your car. This procedure can differ based on the car and manufacturer.
If you need assistance with your car keys or locks give us a call! We can repair, replace, or program virtually any car key.
nearby key repair shop
If your car's gear selector gets stuck in park mode, it's important to get it checked by a mechanic right away. It's a security issue and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This could be a sign that the transmission system is experiencing bigger issues, which can be costly to fix.
Luckily, most of the time, this issue can be easily fixed. The most common reason the gear selector could get stuck is that one of the cable ends has snapped or become uncoupled from the lever itself. This is a simple fix and the mechanic can usually fix it within a few minutes.
In some cases the bushing of the gear selector might be damaged or worn. mobile key repair are rubber covers that go around articulation points in the gear system to help it move more easily. These covers work similarly to cartilage joints, which is why they must be healthy and flexible.
You can extend the life of your gear selector by doing a few easy things. You should avoid the gear selection in very cold temperatures. The cables for controlling the gear can freeze and crack. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, like the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are a critical part of your gear selector and should not be overlooked. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a great idea to visit an auto repair shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the right parts to fix the gear selection system. They can also provide a range of other services, like maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn on your key in the ignition and hear nothing except a click, your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through natural processes that cause 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 the power source in your car which can cause the radio or the electric windows to fail. If your car is having issues starting in cold weather, this could be a good sign that it's time to get an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes your problem might not be due to a dead battery, but rather a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. Having your mechanic check to make sure that the serpentine belt, alternator, and battery cables are all functioning properly can solve this problem.
A key fob that is not functioning properly is another common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob connects to the computer in your vehicle, and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system may become confused or stop communicating if it becomes submerged or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
It is usually possible to reset a lost key fob by following the directions in the owner's manual. Depending on the vehicle it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning 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 be professionally programmed and will require an expert technician. It's worth trying these simple methods before you buy a new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder which, when inserted into the ignition, transmits the signal. This signal informs the immobilizer in the car if the key is the right one to be used for starting. In the 1990s theft of cars became such a problem that most manufacturers fitted this transponder security system into their vehicles for security and insurance purposes.
If you have a brand newer vehicle, the only way to replace your key could be at the dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car before you leave. This number is usually found on the dashboard's front, door jamb, or in the owner's manual.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will use a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key to accurately duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on the spot using a precision cutting machine. If your key has a blade, a fob or a thick grey or black head, it will need to be programmed to your car before you can start the motor.