11 "Faux Pas" That Are Actually OK To Make With Your Automotive Key Repair
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 turn in the ignition. It could occur at the worst moment, like when you're filling your trunk with groceries or returning home from work.
There are a variety of solutions to help you get back on your way. Here are some of the most common key issues with cars and solutions:
Broken or bent keys
The most common reason an owner of a car cannot start their vehicle is a bent key. This can be fixed by simply straightening the key. This may seem simple, but you must be careful. The key is very thin and could break if bent even slightly.
To do this, you will need an area with a solid foundation, as well as a pair of pliers. Grab the key at one end with the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. This is best done on a flat surface or in a vise. You can then place it inside the lock to see if it turns.
If not, it may be time to get a new key cut. There is no need to call a lock-smith and your key will still function.
Keep a spare key in your pocket to ensure you're not without a way to enter your vehicle if it is damaged.
If you have trouble inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying oil to it. This will enable it to move easier through the cylinder and stop it from getting stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray to ensure a more precise application. This will also stop moisture from damaging your device.
Pins that are snuck or springs
A pin (also known as a roll pin or a spring) can get stuck. A pin is a small 2 to 3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends, which are used to connect two components of an equipment. In most cases you can take a nut off by pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench.
If you have an older car that is equipped with a microchip key, it is possible that the key needs to be programmed to work with your car. This can be a simple or difficult depending on the car's manufacturer and model.
If you need assistance with your automotive keys or locks, give us call! We can repair, replace or program almost any vehicle key.
Gear Selector
If your car's gear selector gets stuck in park mode, it's important to get it checked by a mechanic as soon as you notice it. This is a security issue and could lead to serious vehicle damage if continue driving. This is also a sign of larger issues with the transmission system itself, which can be expensive to fix.
Luckily, most of the time, this issue can be fixed easily. g28carkeys of the time, the cable end that is attached to the lever can snap or become disconnected. The mechanic can repair this issue in a matter of minutes.
In certain instances there are instances where the gear selector bushing may get damaged or worn out. Rubber covers are positioned around the articulation points of the gear system to ensure that it is fluid. These rubber covers function similarly to the cartilage in your joints, so they need to be healthy and flexible.
It is not uncommon for them to wear out in time, but there are some ways to prolong their life. The first is to avoid using the gear selector during extremely cold weather. The gear control cables can freeze and crack. You should also replace the bushings with premium quality ones, such as the ones from First Line.
These bushings form an essential element of your gear selector and should not be overlooked. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to visit an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you in finding the right parts to fix your gear selection apparatus. They also provide various other services such as transmission maintenance and service.
Dead battery
If you turn on your key in the ignition and hear nothing except a click, your battery is dead. Most batteries last between three and five years and as they age they go through a natural process that causes them to die prematurely. This is because the negative plates in your car battery will start to become coated with crystals of sulfate.
A dead battery could cause your car to lose electrical power, which can cause the radio to stop working or electric window becoming unresponsive. If you've been having difficulty starting your car during cold weather, it could be a sign you need an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes, your issue might not be a dead battery, but an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. Your mechanic should verify that the serpentine belt, alternator, and battery cables are all functioning properly can solve this problem.
Key fobs that are not functioning properly is a common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob is a small device that connects to your vehicle's computer and relays commands and signals between the engine and the accessory systems. The system could become confused or stop communicating with your car when it is exposed to harsh temperatures or gets wet.
You can usually reset a lost key fob by following the directions in the owner's guide. Based on the vehicle you have you may have to open and close the doors, turn lights and other electronic devices off and on, press a certain sequence of buttons, or open and shut the windows. If this doesn't solve the issue, your device may need to professionally programmed which requires the help of an expert. Try these easy techniques before purchasing a new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder which when it is inserted into the ignition, transmits a signal. This signal informs the immobilizer on the car whether the key is the right one to be used for starting. In the 1990s, car theft was a major issue. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system for safety and insurance reasons.
If you have a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your key may be through a dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car prior to you leave. You can find this number on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in an owner's guide.
Bring your current working key with you to an participating AutoZone store and a representative will employ machines to trace the contours of your blank key to precisely replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site using a precision cutting machine. If your key is equipped with a blade, a fob, or a thick grey or black head it must be programmed for your car before you can start the motor.