From All Over The Web From The Web: 20 Awesome Infographics About Automotive Key Repair
Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all been there - your car keys won't turn in the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient moments, like when you're filling your trunk with groceries or when you're returning to home from work.
Rather than panic There are many options to get you back on the road. Here are some common key issues in the automotive industry and their solutions:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most frequent reason why car owners are unable to start their vehicle. It can be repaired by simply straightening the key. It may sound simple, but it is important to do it carefully. The key is very thin, and bending it even a little can cause it to break.
You'll need a solid work surface and a pair pliers for this. Grab one end of the key with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface, or in a vise. Then, you can place it inside the lock to test whether it will turn.
If not, it may be time to get a new key cut. This will prevent you from having to call a locksmith, and will ensure that your key will function.
It's a good idea keep a spare key in your pocket so that you don't find yourself without access to your vehicle in the event of a broken key.
If you are having trouble inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying some grease to it. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder, and will prevent it from getting stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray to get the most 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 small 2 to 3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends, which are used to connect 2 parts of a machine. In visit my website of cases, you can remove pins by simply pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.
If you own an older car that uses a microchip key it is likely that the key will need to be programmed to work with your car. This process can vary depending on the model of car and the manufacturer.
If you require assistance with your keys for your vehicle or locks, give us call! We are able to repair, replace or program almost every vehicle key.
Gear Selector
It's important to get your vehicle to a mechanic as quickly as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a security issue and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This issue can also be a sign of larger issues with the transmission itself, which can be costly to repair.
Fortunately, the majority of the time this problem can be fixed easily. The most frequent reason the gear selector may get stuck is that one of the cable ends has snapped, or become uncoupled from the lever itself. The mechanic can repair this issue in a matter of minutes.
In certain instances there are instances where the gear selector bushing can get damaged or worn out. Rubber covers are positioned around the joints of the gear system in order to make it more fluid. These covers function similar to the cartilage in your joints, and therefore need to be healthy and flexible.
It's not uncommon for them to wear out in time, but there are a few ways to extend their life. You should avoid the gear selection during extremely cold weather. This is because the cables that control the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace the bushings with premium quality ones, such as the ones from First Line.
These bushings are an essential part of your gear selector and should not go unnoticed. If you notice that yours is damaged it is best to visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help you locate the ideal parts to repair the gear selector mechanism. They can also offer a variety of other services like maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn on your key in the ignition but you don't hear anything other than a click, your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo natural processes that cause them to die prematurely. This is due to the negative plates inside the battery of your car will begin to become coated with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery may also cause your vehicle to lose power, which could result in the radio or electric window becoming unresponsive. If your car has been experiencing problems starting in cold weather, it is an indication that it's time to get a new battery.
Sometimes, your issue might not be a dead battery, but rather an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. This issue can be fixed by having your mechanic check that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all functioning correctly.
Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is an ignition key that isn't working properly. The key fob is connected to your vehicle's computer, and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. This system can be confused or cease communicating if it is wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
Follow the instructions in the owner's manual to reset the lost keyfob. Based on the vehicle you have, you may need to open and close the doors, switch lights and other electronic devices on and off and press a particular sequence of buttons, or even close and open the windows. If this doesn't fix the issue, your device may require professional programming which requires the help of a technician. It's worth trying these simple steps before deciding to pay for a new device.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with an embedded transponder chip in them that sends an electronic signal to a receiver in the ignition when they are inserted. The signal informs an immobilizer if the key is correct for the car to start. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became such an issue that many manufacturers fitted this transponder security device in their vehicles to ensure safety and insurance purposes.
If you own a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your keys could be at the dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car before you go. It is located on the front of the dashboard or door jamb in your owner's manual.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will make use of a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key in order to precisely replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with an exact cutting machine on site. If your key has blade, fob or a large grey/black head, it will need to be programmed for your vehicle before you can use it to start the motor.