Guide To Automotive Key Repair: The Intermediate Guide On 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 keys won't turn in the ignition. It could occur at the most inconvenient moment, like when you are loading your trunk with groceries or driving home from work.

There are many different solutions that can bring you back on the way. Here are some common automotive key repair problems and possible solutions:

Broken or bent key

A bent key is the most frequent reason why a car owner is unable to start their vehicle. It can be fixed by simply straightening the key. This might seem easy but be careful. The key is thin and can break if bent even slightly.

To do this, you'll need an area that is stable, as well as a pair of pliers. Hold the key at one end with the pliers, and bend it until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface or in a vise. You can then place it in the lock to see if it changes.

If not, it might be time to have a new key cut. This will save you from having to call a locksmith, and will ensure that your key will function.

Keep a spare key in your pocket so you're not without access to your vehicle if it breaks.

If you are having trouble inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying some grease to it. This will allow it move more easily through the cylinder, and also prevent it from getting stuck. Spray graphite powder or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray to get an even more precise application. This will also help stop moisture from ruining your key.

Spring pins and springs that are stuck

Sometimes a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring can get stuck. Pins are a tiny 2 to 3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends, which are used to connect two components of an equipment. In the majority of instances, it is possible to remove pins by simply pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.

If you own an older car that is equipped with microchip keys it is likely that the key will need to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This can be a simple or complex depending on the car's manufacturer and model.

If you require assistance with your keys for your vehicle or locks, give us call! We can repair, replace or program almost any vehicle key.

Gear selector

If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, it's crucial to get it checked by an expert mechanic immediately. It's a safety issue, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This issue could also indicate more serious issues with the transmission that could be costly to repair.

Most times this issue is easily fixable. The most common reason the gear selector can be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped off or separated from the lever itself. This is a simple fix and a mechanic should be able to complete the task in a couple of minutes.

In some instances there are instances where the gear selector bushing could become damaged or worn out. The rubber covers are put around the articulation points of the gear system to make it more fluid. They work in a similar manner to cartilage in your knees, therefore it is important to ensure that they stay healthy and supple.

It is not uncommon for them to wear out over time, but there are some things you can do to prolong their life. The first is to avoid using the gear selector in extremely cold temperatures. The gear control cables 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 an important element of your gear selector, and should not go unnoticed. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to go to an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They will help you locate the right parts to restore your gear selector device. They also offer a variety of other services, including transmission maintenance and service.

Dead battery

If you switch the key in the ignition and hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. Most batteries last between three and five years and as they age, they undergo an natural process that causes them to end up dying prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be covered with sulfate crystals.

A dead battery could cause your vehicle to lose power, which can cause the radio to stop working or electric window becoming unresponsive. If your car is having issues getting started in cold weather, this could be an indication that it's time to get a new battery.

Sometimes, the issue may not be due to a dead battery, automotive key repair but an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. A mechanic's check to make sure that the serpentine belt, alternator and battery cables are working properly could solve this issue.

Another common automotive key repair is an ignition key that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob is connected to your vehicle's computer, and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system may become confused or cease communicating with your car if it is exposed to extreme temperatures or gets wet.

Follow the instructions in the owner's manual to reset a lost keyfob. Depending on the type of vehicle it will require opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronics on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix your device, it could require professional programming, automotive key repair which will require the services of a technician. Try these easy techniques before purchasing a new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys come with a transponder chip embedded in them that transmits signals to a receiver in the ignition when it is inserted. The signal is sent to an immobilizer to determine whether the key is in the right place to allow the remote car key repair near me to start. In the 1990s, theft of vehicles became an issue that many manufacturers installed this transponder security system into their vehicles for security and insurance purposes.

If you own a brand new vehicle, the only way to change your keys is to visit the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go there note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This can be found on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in the owner's manual.

Bring your current key to a participating AutoZone store, and an associate will use a machine to trace the contours of your blank key to accurately replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with a precise cutting machine onsite. If your key is a blade style or key fob or has a hefty black or grey head on it, it'll need to be programmed to your specific car before it can be used to start the engine.