10 Factors To Know About Automotive Key Repair You Didn't Learn At School
Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all been there the car keys won't engage in the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient moments, like when you're loading your car with groceries or when you're returning home from work.
There are lock and key repair near me to bring you back on the way. Here are some of the most common key issues with cars and solutions:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most common reason a car owner can't start their car. Straightening the key is a simple fix. It may sound simple, but it is important to do it with care. The key is extremely thin, and bending it even one degree can cause it to break.
To do this, you'll need a stable workspace, and pliers. Take the key at one end with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on the floor or in a vice. Then, you can put it in the lock to test whether it will turn.
If not, you might need to get a new one created. This will save you from needing to call a locksmith and will ensure that your key will function.
It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your pocket so that you don't find yourself without an entry point into your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.
If you are having trouble inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying some oil to it. This will help it to move easier through the cylinder, and also prevent it from getting stuck. You can apply graphite or spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray to get an even more precise application. This will also help to prevent moisture from ruining your key.
Stuck pins or springs
Sometimes a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring could become stuck. Pins are a tiny piece of metal that is between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long, with hollow ends. It is used to connect two components of a machine. In most cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it off using your fingers or the wrench.
If you have an older vehicle that has microchip keys, it is possible that the key will need to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This process can vary depending on the car and manufacturer.
Contact us if you require assistance with your car locks or keys! We can repair, replace or program almost any vehicle key.
Selector for gears
If your car's gear selector gets stuck in park mode, it's crucial to bring it to an expert mechanic immediately. This is a safety issue and could result in serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. This could be a sign that your transmission system is experiencing bigger problems that are expensive to fix.
Most of the time the issue is fixable. The cable end that is attached to the lever could snap or come uncoupled. This is a simple fix, and a mechanic should be able to complete the task within a few minutes.
In some cases there are instances where the gear selector bushing can be damaged or worn out. These are rubber covers that are placed around the joints within the gear system to help it move more fluidly. They work in a similar manner as cartilage in your knees, so it's important that they stay healthy and supple.
You can extend the life of your gear selector by doing a few easy things. It is best to avoid the gear selection in extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables that control the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, like those made by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings form an essential part of your selection of gears and shouldn't be ignored. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to visit an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the correct parts to repair your gear selection device. They can also offer various other services, including maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn on your key in the ignition and hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo a natural process which causes them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will start to become coated with sulfate crystalline deposits.
A dead battery can cause your car to lose power, which can lead to the radio or electric window not working properly. If you have been having trouble starting your car in cold weather, this could be a sign that you require a new battery.
Sometimes, the issue may not be caused by a dead battery, but a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. This issue can be solved by having your mechanic verify that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables all work correctly.
A key fob that is not functioning properly is another common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob is connected to the computer in your vehicle and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system can get confused or stop communicating with your car when it is exposed harsh temperatures or gets wet.
Follow the instructions in the owner's manual to reset the keyfob that was lost. Depending on the model of your car you may have to open and close the doors, turn the lights and other electronic devices off and on, press a certain sequence of buttons, or even close and open the windows. If this does not fix the issue, your device may need to professionally programmed which requires the help of a technician. But it's still worth attempting these steps before you decide to pay for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder chip embedded in them that transmits signals to a receiver within the ignition when they are inserted. This signal informs the immobilizer inside the car if the key is the correct one for it to start. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became a problem that most manufacturers put this transponder security system in their vehicles for security and insurance reasons.
If you own a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key may be through the dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Before you go there make a note of the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in an owner's guide.
Bring your working key to an AutoZone participating store. A representative will make use of a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with an exact cutting machine on site. If your key is blade style or a key fob or has a large grey or black head on it, it'll require programming to your specific car before it can be used to start the engine.