7 Simple Tips For Making A Statement With Your Automotive Key Repair
Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all had this experience - the car key won't engage in the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient moments, like when you're loading your trunk with groceries, or when you're returning home from work.
There are many different solutions that will help you get back on your way. Here are a few of the most common automotive key repair problems and possible solutions:
Broken or bent key
The most common reason an owner of a car cannot start their car is a bent key. Straightening the key is a simple fix. This may sound simple however it is crucial to do it carefully. The key is extremely thin and could break if you bend it even a little.
You'll need a solid work surface and a pair pliers for this. Grab one end of the key using the pliers, and then bend it back until it is straight. It is best to do this on an even surface or in a vice. Then, you can put it in the lock to see if it changes.
If not, it could be time to get a new key cut. This will prevent you from having to contact a locksmith and can ensure that your key will function.
Keep a spare key in your pocket so you're not left without access to your vehicle if it breaks.
If you're experiencing problems with a broken or bent key, try applying some grease on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder, and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use a spray lubricant or graphite powder. If you are using a spray, be sure to attach the plastic tubing that came with it for a more precise application. This will also help to keep moisture from damaging your key.
Stuck pins or springs
A pin (also known as a roll pin, or a spring) can get 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 parts of machines. In most cases you can remove a nut by pulling it off using your fingers or a wrench.
If you own a newer car that has keys with microchips in it, there is an opportunity for the key to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This process can vary depending on the car and manufacturer.
Call us if you need assistance with your automotive locks or keys! We are able to repair or replace every vehicle key.
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If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, it's crucial to get it checked by a mechanic right away. This is a security issue and could result in serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. It could also be a sign that the transmission is experiencing more serious problems, which are costly to repair.
Most of the time, this problem is easily fixable. The most common reason the gear selector could be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped, or disconnected from the lever itself. The mechanic can fix this within a couple of minutes.
In some cases the bushings of the gear selector might be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that cover articulation points in the gear system to help it shift more easily. These rubber covers function similarly to cartilage joints, so they need to be healthy and flexible.
You can extend their life by doing a few easy things. You should first avoid using the gear selection during extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables controlling the gear tend to freeze and cracking. It is recommended to replace the bushings with high quality ones, like the ones from First Line.
These bushings are an essential component of your gear selector and should not be overlooked. If you notice yours is worn out you must visit an auto repair shop specializing in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the correct parts to repair your gear selection device. They can also provide various other services, such as transmission service and maintenance.
Dead battery
If you turn your key in the ignition and you hear nothing other than a click, your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through natural processes that cause them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be coated with sulfate crystal deposits.
A dead battery may cause the loss of electrical power within your vehicle and cause the radio or the electric windows to malfunction. If you've had difficulties starting your car in cold weather this could be a sign you need an upgrade to your battery.
It is possible that your issue is not caused by an unresponsive battery but a malfunction in the charging system. A mechanic's check to ensure that the serpentine belt, alternator and battery cables are all functioning properly can solve this issue.
Another common automotive key repair is the key fob that isn't working properly. 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 may become confused or stop communicating with your car when it is exposed to harsh temperatures or gets wet.
Follow the instructions in the owner's manual to reset the keyfob that was lost. Based on the vehicle you have, you may need to open and close the doors, turn lights and other electronic devices off and on by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or close and open the windows. If this doesn't fix your device, it could need to professionally programmed that will require the assistance of a technician. It's worth attempting these steps before deciding to pay for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder chip built into them that transmits an electronic signal to a receiver inside the ignition when it is inserted. The signal is sent to an immobilizer to determine if the key is correct for the car to begin. In the 1990s, car theft became a major problem. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system due to security and insurance reasons.
If you have a brand newer vehicle, the only way to replace your key could be through the dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car prior to you leave. This can be found on the front of the dashboard or door jamb in your owner's manual.
Bring your working key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate 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 with an exact cutting machine in-store. If your key is blade style or key fob or has a thick black or grey head on it, it'll require programming to your specific car before it can be used to start the engine.