Automotive Key Repair Explained In Fewer Than 140 Characters
Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all had this experience the car keys won't turn on the ignition. repair car key could happen at the worst possible moment, like when you're loading your trunk with groceries or driving home from work.
There are many solutions that can get you back on your way. Here are a few of the most common car key repair issues and solutions for them:
Broken or bent key
The most common reason why a car owner cannot start their vehicle is a bent key. This can be easily repaired by simply bending the key. It might sound easy however it is crucial to do this carefully. The key is extremely thin and even bending it small enough could cause it to break.
You'll need a sturdy work surface and a pair of pliers to do this. Take one end of the key using the pliers and bend it back until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface or in a vise. You can then put it in the lock to see if it turns.
If not, you could require a new one made. You will not need to call a locksmith and your key will still function.
Keep an extra key in your pocket so you don't have access to your vehicle in the event that your key is damaged.
If you're having difficulty inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying lubricant to it. This will allow it to move through the cylinder and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use a spray graphite powder or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray to get a more precise application. This will also help to prevent moisture from ruining your key.
Stuck pins or springs
A pin (also known as a roll pin or spring) may become stuck. A pin is a small piece of metal that measures between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long and has hollow ends. It is used to connect two parts of machines. In the majority of instances, it is possible to remove a pin by simply pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.
If you have a newer car that uses keys with microchips inside, there is an opportunity for the key to be programmed in order to work with your car. This process is different based on the car and manufacturer.
If you require assistance with your automotive keys or locks give us a 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 bring it to a mechanic as soon as you notice it. This is a safety issue and could lead to serious vehicle damage if continue driving. It could also be a sign that the transmission system is having bigger problems, which are costly to repair.
Luckily, most of the time, this issue is easily fixable. The most common reason the gear selector can get stuck is that one of the cable ends has snapped, or become uncoupled from the lever itself. This is a simple fix and a mechanic should be able to complete the task within a few minutes.
In certain instances, however, the gear selector bushing may become damaged or worn out. The rubber covers are put around the points of articulation of the gear system to ensure that it is fluid. These covers function similar to the cartilage that you have in your joints, so they require to be flexible and healthy.
You can extend the life of your gear selector by doing a few easy things. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector during extremely cold temperatures. This is because the gear control cables are often prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace the bushings with high quality ones, like those from First Line.
These bushings are an important element of your gear selector, and should not be ignored. If you find that yours is worn out, it's a good idea to visit an auto repair shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the right parts to fix your gear selection apparatus. They also offer a variety of other services, including maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you switch the ignition on but hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. The average battery lasts between three and five years, and as they age they go through an natural process that causes them to end up dying early. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be covered with sulfate crystal deposits.
A dead battery may also cause your car to lose electrical power, which can lead to the radio or electric window malfunctioning. If you've had trouble starting your car in cold weather this could be a sign you require a new battery.
It is possible that your issue is not due to a dead battery but a malfunction in the charging system. Having your mechanic check to ensure that the serpentine belt, alternator, and battery cables are working correctly can resolve this issue.
A key fob that is not functioning properly is a common automotive key repair. The key fob is connected to the computer in your car, 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 is wet.
It is usually possible to reset the lost key fob by following the steps in the owner's manual. Depending on the model of your car you may have to open and close the doors, turn lights and other electronic devices off and on and press a particular sequence of buttons, or shut and open the windows. If this does not fix the issue, your device may need to professionally programmed which requires the help of technicians. However, it's still worth trying these simple steps before deciding to pay for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys have a transponder chip embedded in them that sends a signal to a receiver within the ignition when they are inserted. The signal is sent to an immobilizer to determine if the key is correct for the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft was an issue. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system to ensure security and insurance reasons.
If you have a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your keys is at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car before you leave. You can find this number on the dashboard, the door jamb, or in the owner's manual.
Bring your current key with you to a participating AutoZone store and an associate will use machines to trace the contours of your key blank to accurately duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using a precise cutting machine onsite. If your key has blade, fob or a thick grey or black head it must be programmed for your vehicle before you can start the motor.