10 Facts About Automotive Key Repair That Will Instantly Bring You To A Happy Mood
10 Facts About Automotive Key Repair That Will Instantly Bring You To A Happy Mood
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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 filling up your car with groceries or on your way home from work.
There are many different solutions to help you get back on your way. Here are a few of the most common car key repair issues and their possible solutions:
Broken or bent keys
The most common reason a car owner cannot begin their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is a simple fix. It might sound easy but it's important to do it with care. The key is extremely thin and may break if bent even a little.
You'll need a sturdy work surface and a pair of pliers for this. Pick up one end of the key with the pliers, and then bend it back until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on the floor or in a vice. You can then put it in the lock to see if it changes.
If not, you might need to get a new one made. There is no need to call a locksmith and your key will still work.
It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your pocket, so you don't find yourself without access to your vehicle in the event of a lost key.
If you are having trouble inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying oil to it. This will help it move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can apply graphite or spray lubricant. If you are using a spray, ensure that you attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure a more precise application. This will also help prevent water from destroying your device.
Spring pins and springs with pins
A pin (also known as a roll pin, or a spring) can sometimes get stuck. A pin is a small 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends used to connect two components of an equipment. In the majority of cases, you can remove pins by simply pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench.
If you own a newer car that has keys with microchips inside, there is an opportunity that the key has to be programmed in order to work with your car. This procedure can differ based on the manufacturer and car.
If you need help with your keys for your vehicle or locks, give us a call! We can repair or replace every vehicle key.
Gear Selector
It's crucial to take your car to a mechanic as soon as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety concern and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. It could also be a sign that your transmission is experiencing more serious issues, which can be costly to fix.
Luckily, most of the time this problem can be fixed easily. Most often, the cable end that is connected to the lever could snap or break off. The mechanic can repair this issue in a matter of minutes.
In some cases the gear selector bushing could be car keys repair damaged or worn out. These are rubber covers that are placed around the articulation points in the gear system, allowing it shift more fluidly. They work in a similar manner as cartilage in your knees, so it's crucial that they remain healthy and supple.
It's not unusual for them to wear out in time, but there are some things you can do to extend their life. First, you should avoid using the gear selector in very cold temperatures. This is because the gear control cables are prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace the bushings using premium quality ones, like the ones from First Line.
These bushings are a critical part of your gear selector and should not be overlooked. If you find that yours is damaged, you should visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. These experts can help you find the perfect parts to fix your gear selector apparatus. They also provide many other services, including maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn your key in the ignition and hear nothing other than a click, your battery is dead. Most batteries last between three and five years, and as they age they go through an natural process that causes them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be coated with sulfate crystalline deposits.
A dead battery could cause your vehicle to lose electrical power, which can cause the radio to stop working or electric window not working properly. If your car has been experiencing problems beginning in cold weather, it is a good sign that it's time for a new battery.
It's possible that the problem is not an issue with your battery, but rather an issue with the charging system. Your mechanic should ensure that the serpentine belt, alternator and battery cables are all working properly could solve this issue.
Another common automotive key repair is a key fob that has stopped working properly. The key fob is a small unit that connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and the accessory systems. This system can get confused or cease communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed extreme temperatures or gets wet.
Follow the directions in the owner's manual to reset a lost keyfob. Based on the model it will require opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronics on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your device, it could need to professionally programmed that will require the assistance of a technician. However, it's still worth attempting these steps before you decide to pay for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder, which, when inserted into the ignition, sends out a signal. The signal informs the immobilizer in the car whether the key is the correct one to be used for starting. In the 1990s theft of cars became such an issue that many manufacturers put this transponder security device in their vehicles for security 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 visit note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). It is located on the dashboard's front or door jamb in your owner's manual.
Bring your working key to an AutoZone participating store. A representative will use a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key to accurately duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using a precise cutting machine onsite. If the key you are using has blade, fob or a large grey or black head it must be programmed to your car before you can use it to start the motor.