10 Factors To Know About Automotive Key Repair You Didn't Learn In School
10 Factors To Know About Automotive Key Repair You Didn't Learn In School
Blog Article
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 filling up your trunk with groceries, or when you're returning home from work.
There are many different solutions that will get you back on your way. Here are a few of the most common automotive key repair issues and possible solutions:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most common reason why car owners are unable to start their car. Straightening the key is an easy fix. It may appear simple but be cautious. The key is extremely thin and bending it just one degree can cause it to break.
To do this, you'll require a stable workspace, and pliers. Grab 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. After that, you can place it in the lock to determine whether it will turn.
If not, it could be time to have a new key cut. There is no need to call a locksmith and your key will still work.
It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your pocket so that you don't end up without a way into your vehicle in the event of a broken key.
If you are experiencing issues with a bent or broken key, try putting some lubrication on it before trying to insert it into the lock. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. If using a spray, ensure that you attach the plastic tubing that came with it for more precise application. This will also help to prevent moisture from ruining your key.
Stuck pins and springs
Sometimes, a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring can become stuck. Pins are a small piece of steel 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 pieces of a machine. In most instances, you can take out pins by simply pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.
If you have 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 vehicle. This procedure can be easy or complicated depending on the car's manufacturer and model.
Contact us for assistance with your car keys or locks! We are able to repair, replace or program almost every key for your vehicle.
Gear selector
It is essential to take your car to a mechanic as soon as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety concern and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This could be a sign that the transmission system is experiencing bigger problems, which are costly to repair.
Most times the issue is fixable. Most often, the cable end that is attached to the lever can snap or become disconnected. This is a simple fix, and the mechanic can usually make it in a couple of minutes.
In some cases, however, the gear selector bushing may become damaged or worn out. These are rubber covers that are placed around the joints within the gear system to aid in making it move more smoothly. They function in a similar way to cartilage in your knees therefore it is important to ensure to keep them in good shape and soft.
You can extend their life by doing a few easy things. The first is to avoid using the gear selector in extremely cold temperatures. The cables that control the gears can freeze and crack. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, like ones made by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are a critical component of your selection of gears and shouldn't be overlooked. If you notice yours is worn out you must visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the correct parts to repair your gear selection device. They also provide a variety of other services like maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn on your key in the ignition and you hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. The majority of batteries last between three and five years, and as they get older, they undergo an natural process that causes them to die prematurely. This is because the negative plates in the battery in your car begin to become coated by crystals of sulfate.
A dead battery can also cause you to lose the power source in your car which can cause the radio or the electric windows to malfunction. If your car has been having issues beginning in cold weather, this could be a good sign that it's time to get a new battery.
Sometimes your problem might not be caused by a dead battery, but a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. Your mechanic should ensure that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all working correctly can resolve this problem.
Key fobs that are not car key repair shops near me working properly is another common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob is a small unit that connects to the computer in the vehicle and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. This system can be confused or stop communicating if it becomes wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
Follow the steps in the owner's guide to reset a lost keyfob. Depending on your vehicle you may have to open and close the doors, switch 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 solve your fob, it could need to be professionally programmed, which will require an expert technician. It's worthwhile to try these easy steps before you decide to pay for a new device.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with an embedded transponder chip in them that transmits a signal to a receiver inside the ignition when inserted. The signal is sent to an immobilizer to determine whether the key is in the right place for the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major issue. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system for security and insurance reasons.
If you have a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your keys is to go to the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the dashboard, the door jamb, or in the owner's guide.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will use a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key in order to precisely duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on the spot by a cutting machine that is precise. If your key is equipped with blade, fob or a large head that is grey or black, it will need to be programmed to your car before you can start the motor.