The Evolution Of Automotive Key Repair
The Evolution Of Automotive Key Repair
Blog Article
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 happens at the most inconvenient times, like when you're filling up your trunk with groceries, or returning to home from work.
Rather than panic, there are several different solutions to get back on the road. Here are some common key issues with cars and solutions:
Broken or bent key
A bent key is the most common reason a car owner can't start their car. Straightening the key is a simple fix. This might seem easy, but you must be cautious. The key is very thin, and bending it even small enough could cause it to break.
You'll need a sturdy work surface as well as a pair of pliers for this. Grab the key at the other end using the pliers, and bend it until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface or in a vise. Then, you can put it inside the lock to determine whether it turns.
If not, it could be time to have a new key cut. You don't need to call a locksmith and your key will function.
It's a good idea to keep a spare in your pocket, so you don't find yourself without a way into your vehicle in the event of a lost key.
If you're experiencing problems with a bent or broken key, you can try applying lubrication on it before trying to insert it into the lock. This will help it move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can apply graphite or spray lubricant. If you are using a spray, ensure you attach the plastic tubing that came with it for a more precise application. This will also help to prevent moisture from ruining your key.
Spring pins and springs that are stuck
A pin (also known as a roll pin or a spring) can become stuck. Pins are a tiny 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends used to connect two parts of an equipment. In most cases you can take a nut off by pulling it off using your fingers or using a wrench.
If you own a newer car that has a key with a microchip inside, there is a chance the key needs to be programmed to work with your car. This procedure can be easy or complicated depending on the car's model and manufacturer.
Contact us if you require assistance with your car locks or keys! We can repair, replace or program virtually any car key.
Gear Selector
If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, it's crucial to take it to a mechanic right away. It's a safety concern and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This issue could also indicate bigger problems with the transmission that could be expensive to fix.
Luckily, most times, this issue is easily fixable. Most often, the cable that is connected to the lever may snap or become disconnected. This is a simple fix and a mechanic should be able to complete the task within a few minutes.
In some instances, however, the gear selector bushing can be damaged or worn out. These are rubber covers that go around articulation points in the gear system, allowing it move more smoothly. These covers work similarly to the cartilage that you have in your joints, and therefore need to be healthy and flexible.
It is not uncommon for them to degrade over time, however there are a few ways to extend their lifespan. First, you should avoid using the gear selector during extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables that control the gear tend to freeze and cracking. You should also replace the bushings using premium quality ones, like the ones from First Line.
These bushings are a critical component of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you find that yours is worn out it is best to visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. These experts can help you locate the ideal parts to restore the gear selector mechanism. They can also provide you with a range of other services, such as maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn the ignition key and you hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. Most batteries last between three and five years, and as they age, they undergo natural processes that cause them to end up dying early. This is because the negative plates in the battery in your car begin to be coated with crystals of sulfate.
A dead battery may also cause your vehicle to lose power, which could cause the radio to stop working or electric window malfunctioning. If your car has been having issues beginning in cold weather, this could be a good sign that it's time for an upgrade to your battery.
It is possible that your problem is not an unresponsive battery but an issue with the charging system. Your mechanic should make sure that the serpentine belt, alternator and battery cables are working properly could solve this issue.
A key fob that's not working properly is another common issue with automotive keys. The key fob is a small device that connects to the vehicle's computer and relays commands and signals between the engine and the accessory systems. The system could become confused or stop communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed to extreme temperatures or gets wet.
Follow the instructions in the owner's guide to reset the keyfob that was lost. Based on the model, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve the issue, your device may need to professionally programmed which requires the help of a technician. However, it's still worthwhile to try these easy steps before you decide to shell out for a new device.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder, which when inserted into ignition, sends out the signal. This signal tells an immobilizer if the key is correct for the car to start. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became such an issue that the majority of manufacturers installed this transponder security system in their vehicles for security and insurance reasons.
If you own a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key could be through a dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car before you leave. This number is usually found on the dashboard, the door jamb, or in the owner's manual.
Bring your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member 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 how to repair car key lock a cutting machine that is precise. If the key you are using has blade, fob, or a thick grey or black head it will need to be programmed for your vehicle before you can use it to start the motor.