20 Fun Facts 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 - the car key won't turn in the ignition. It could occur at the worst time, such as when you are loading your trunk with groceries or returning home from work.
Rather than panic, there are several different solutions to get you back on the road. Here are some common automotive key problems and solutions:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most frequent reason why car owners are unable to start their car. This can be repaired by simply bending the key. This might seem easy but be careful. The key is very thin and may break if bent even a little.
You will need a stable work surface and a pair pliers to do this. Take car key repair of the key using the pliers, and then bend it back 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 see if it will turn.
If not, you might require a new one made. This will prevent you from needing to call a locksmith and can ensure that your key works.
Keep an extra key in your pocket to ensure you're not without the ability to get into your vehicle if yours is damaged.
If you're having difficulty inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying grease to it. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder and will prevent it from getting 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 an easier application. This will also prevent moisture from damaging your device.
Spring pins and springs that are stuck
A pin (also called a roll pin, or a spring) may become stuck. Pins are small 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends, which are used to connect two components of a machine. In most cases you can take a nut off by pulling it out using your fingers or the wrench.
If you own an older car that is equipped with microchip keys, it is possible that the key will need to be programmed in order to work with your car. This process is different based on the manufacturer and car.
If you need help with your keys for your vehicle or locks, give us a call! We are able to repair or replace every key for your vehicle.
Gear selector
It's important to get your car to a mechanic as soon as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a security issue, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. It could also be a sign that your transmission system is having bigger issues, which can be costly to fix.
Fortunately, the majority of the time, this issue is easily fixable. Most often, the cable end that is connected 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 can become damaged or worn out. These are rubber coverings that cover joints within the gear system to aid in making it shift more fluidly. These covers function similar to the cartilage in your joints, and therefore must be healthy and flexible.
You can extend the life of your gear selector by doing a few simple things. First, you should avoid using the gear selector during extremely cold weather. The gear control cables can freeze and break. You should also replace the bushings using premium quality ones, like the ones from First Line.
These bushings are an important component of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to visit an auto repair shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you in finding the correct parts to repair the gear selection system. They can also offer various other services, such as transmission service and maintenance.
Dead battery
If you turn the ignition key and hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. The average battery lasts between three and five years and as they get older, they undergo a natural process that causes them to end up dying early. This is due to the negative plates inside your car battery will start to be coated with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery can also cause you to lose electrical power within your vehicle which can cause the radio or the electric windows to fail. If you've had difficulties starting your car in cold weather, this could be a sign you need a new battery.
Sometimes, your issue might not be due to a dead battery, but rather a problem 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 working properly.
A key fob that's not functioning properly is another common issue with automotive keys. The key fob is a small unit that connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. The system may become confused or stop communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed extreme temperatures or gets wet.
Follow the directions in your owner's guide 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 by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or even close and open the windows. If this doesn't fix your fob, it could need to be professionally programmed, which will require an expert technician. But 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, transmits an indication. This signal informs the immobilizer inside the car whether the key is the right one to be used for starting. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became such an issue that the majority of manufacturers fitted this transponder security system in their vehicles for safety and insurance purposes.
If you have a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your keys could be through the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Before you visit note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This can be found on the dashboard's front or door jamb in your owner's manual.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. A representative will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key in order to precisely duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using an exact cutting machine in-store. If your key has an edge, a fob or a large head that is grey or black it must be programmed to your car before you can use it to start the motor.