Automotive Key Repair: A Simple Definition
Automotive Key Repair: A Simple Definition
Blog Article
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 occurs at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're loading your car with groceries or returning home from work.
Instead of panicking instead, there are a variety of solutions to get back on the road. Here are some of the most common key issues in the automotive industry and their solutions:
Broken or bent key
The most common reason an owner of a car cannot start their car is a bent key. This can be easily repaired by simply straightening the key. This may seem simple, but you must be careful. The key is very thin and can break if bent even a little.
You will need a stable work surface as well as a pair of pliers to do this. Pick up one end of the key with the pliers, and then bend it back until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface or in a vise. You can then put it into the lock to see if it turns.
If not, you might need to get a new one created. This will avoid needing to contact a locksmith and can ensure that your key will work.
Keep a spare key in your pocket so you're not without the ability to get into your vehicle if it is damaged.
If you're having issues with a broken or bent key, try putting some lubrication on it before trying to insert it into the lock. This will help it to move easier through the cylinder and prevent it from getting stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. If using a spray, be sure to attach the plastic tubing included with it for a more precise application. This will also stop moisture from damaging your key.
Pins that are snuck or springs
Sometimes a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring may get stuck. Pins are 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 parts of machines. In most cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it off using your fingers or the wrench.
If you own a newer car that has keys with microchips inside, there is an opportunity for the key to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This procedure can be easy or complex depending on the car's model and manufacturer.
Contact us for assistance with your vehicle keys or locks! We can repair, replace or program almost any vehicle key.
Selector for gears
It is essential to take your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a security issue and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This could also indicate larger issues with the transmission system itself, which can be expensive to fix.
Luckily, most of the time this problem can be easily fixed. The most common reason that the gear selector can be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped off or become uncoupled from the lever itself. This is a simple fix, and a mechanic should be able to complete the task within a few minutes.
In certain instances the gear selector bushing could be damaged or worn out. These are rubber coverings that cover articulation points within the gear system to aid in making it shift more easily. These rubber covers function similarly to the cartilage that you have in your joints, which is why they must be healthy and flexible.
It's not uncommon for them to wear car key repair shop near me out over time, but there are some ways to extend their lifespan. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector during extremely cold weather. This is because the cables controlling the gear tend to freeze and cracking. You should also replace your bushings, for instance those made by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are an important element of your gear selector, and should not be ignored. If you find that yours is worn out, it's a good idea to go to an auto repair shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help you locate the right parts to restore your gear selector device. They can also offer various other services like transmission maintenance and service.
Dead battery
If you turn on your key in the ignition but you don't hear anything except a click, your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo a natural process which causes them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be coated with sulfate crystal deposits.
A dead battery can also cause you to lose the power source in your car which can cause the radio or the electric windows to stop working. If your car has been having problems starting in cold weather, this could be a good sign that it's time for a new battery.
Sometimes, the issue may not be due to a dead battery, but rather a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. Having your mechanic check to make sure that the serpentine belt, alternator and battery cables are all working properly could solve this problem.
A key fob that is not functioning properly is another common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob is a small device that connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and accessory systems. The system may become confused or stop communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed extreme temperatures or gets wet.
You can usually reset a lost key fob by following the instructions provided in your owner's manual. Depending on the type of vehicle it will require opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronics on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your fob, it may need to be professionally programmed, which will require a special technician. It's worth trying these simple techniques before purchasing an entirely new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder which, when inserted into the ignition, transmits the signal. The signal informs the immobilizer on the car if the key is the right one to be used for starting. In the 1990s, car theft was a major problem. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system due to security and insurance reasons.
If you own a brand new vehicle, the only option 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 can be found on the dashboard, the door jamb, or in the owner's manual.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member will make use of a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on-site with a precise cutting machine. If your key has blade, fob, or a thick head that is grey or black it will need to be programmed for your car before you can start the motor.