It's The Evolution Of Automotive Key Repair
It's The Evolution Of Automotive Key Repair
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Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all experienced this when the car's key doesn't engage in the ignition. It could occur at the most inconvenient moment, for instance, when you are loading your trunk full of groceries or returning home from work.
There are many solutions that can bring you back on the way. Here are some of the most common key issues with cars and their solutions:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most common reason why car owners are unable to start their vehicle. Straightening the key is an easy fix. This may sound simple however it is crucial to do this carefully. The key is extremely thin and may break if you bend it even a little.
To accomplish this, you'll need an area with a solid foundation, as well as pliers. Take the key at the other end using the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on an even surface or in a vice. After that, you can place it in the lock to test if it will turn.
If not, it could be time to have a new key cut. This will avoid having to call a locksmith and can ensure that your key will function.
Keep a spare key in your pocket to ensure you don't have a way to enter your vehicle if it breaks.
If you're experiencing problems with a broken or bent key, you can try applying lubrication on it before inserting it into the lock. This will allow it to move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use a spray graphite or lubricant. If you're using a spray ensure you attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure more precise application. This will also help prevent moisture from ruining your key.
Stuck pins or springs
Sometimes a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring can become stuck. A pin is a small 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends used to connect two parts of a machine. In most cases, you can remove pins by pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.
If you have a newer car that has an electronic key with a microchip in it, there's an opportunity for the key to be programmed in order to work with your car. This procedure can be easy or difficult depending on the car's model and manufacturer.
If you need help with your car keys or locks, give us a call! We are able to repair, replace or program almost every key for your vehicle.
Gear Selector
It is essential to take your vehicle to a mechanic as quickly as you can when the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a safety concern and could result in serious vehicle damage if continue driving. This could be a sign that the transmission system is experiencing bigger problems, which are costly to fix.
Luckily, most of the time this problem can be fixed easily. Most often, the cable that is connected to the lever could snap or break off. This is a simple fix and a mechanic should be able to complete the task in a couple of minutes.
In some cases the bushing of the gear selector might be damaged or worn. The rubber covers are put around the articulation points of the gear system to keep it fluid. These covers work similarly to cartilage joints, and therefore require to be healthy and flexible.
It is not uncommon for them to wear out over time, however there are a few ways to extend their life. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector in extremely cold weather. This is because the cables controlling the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. It is recommended to replace the bushings with premium quality ones, like the ones from First Line.
These bushings are an essential component of your gear selector, and should not go unnoticed. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to go to an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you to locate the ideal parts to fix the gear selector mechanism. They can also offer a variety of other services such as maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn your key in the ignition and you hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through natural processes that cause them to die prematurely. This is due to the negative plates in your car battery will start to become coated with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery can cause your vehicle to lose power, which could cause the radio to stop working or electric window not working properly. If your car has been having issues beginning in cold weather, this is an indication that it is time for a new battery.
It's possible that the issue is not due to an issue with your battery, but rather a malfunction in the charging system. This issue can be fixed by having your mechanic verify that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are all functioning correctly.
A key fob that's not functioning properly is a common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob is a tiny device that connects to the vehicle's computer and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. The system could become confused or cease communicating with your car when it is exposed extreme temperatures or gets wet.
You can usually reset a lost key fob by following the steps in the owner's manual. Based on the model, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronics on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't work for your fob, it might require professional programming, which will require an expert technician. It's worth trying these simple steps before you decide to pay for a new device.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder, which, when inserted into the ignition, sends out a signal. This signal tells an immobilizer if the key is correct for the car to begin. In the 1990s, theft of vehicles became such an issue that the majority of manufacturers put this transponder security system into their vehicles for security and insurance purposes.
If you have a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your keys could be at the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car prior to you go. You can find this number on the dashboard, the door jamb, or in the owner's manual.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member will use a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using a precise cutting machine onsite. If the key you are using has an edge, a keyed car repair near me fob, or a thick grey or black head it will need to be programmed for your car before you can use it to start the motor.