The Most Common Automotive Key Repair Debate Doesn't Have To Be As Black And White As You Might Think
The Most Common Automotive Key Repair Debate Doesn't Have To Be As Black And White As You Might Think
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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 engage in the ignition. It can happen at the worst possible time, such as when you are loading your trunk full of groceries or driving home from work.
There are a variety of solutions that can get you back on your way. Here are some common automotive key problems and solutions:
Broken or bent keys
The most frequent reason the owner of a car is unable to start their vehicle is a bent key. This can be repaired by simply straightening the key. It might sound easy, but it is important to do it carefully. The key is very thin and even bending it a little can cause it to break.
To do this, you'll require an area with a solid foundation, as well as an plier. Hold 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. Then, you can place it inside the lock to determine whether it will turn.
If not, you could need to have a new one created. This will prevent you from needing to call a locksmith and will ensure that your key will work.
Keep an extra key in your pocket to ensure you're not left without access to your vehicle if yours is damaged.
If you have trouble inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying lubricant to it. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder and also prevent it from becoming stuck. Spray graphite or lubricant. If you're using a spray ensure that you attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure more precise application. This will also help prevent moisture from damaging your important.
Spring pins and springs with pins
A pin (also called a roll pin, or a spring) may get stuck. A pin is a small 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 components of a machine. In the majority of cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench.
If you own an older car that uses a microchip key it is possible that the key will need to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This can be a simple or complicated depending on the car's manufacturer and model.
If you require assistance with your keys for your vehicle or locks, give us a call! We are able to repair or replace every key for your vehicle.
Gear selector
It's important to get your car to a mechanic as quickly as you can when the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a safety issue and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This can also be a sign of bigger problems with the transmission system itself, which can 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, or become uncoupled from the lever itself. This is a simple fix and a mechanic will usually complete the task in a couple of minutes.
In some cases, however, the gear selector bushing could get damaged or worn out. These are rubber coverings that cover articulation points within the gear system, allowing it move more fluidly. They perform the same function to cartilage in your knees so it's crucial that they stay healthy and supple.
You can extend the life of your gear selector by doing a few easy things. It is best to avoid the gear selection in extremely cold weather. This is because the gear control cables tend to freeze and cracking. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, like the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are an essential component of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a great idea to visit an auto repair shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help you locate the right parts to fix your gear selector apparatus. They can also offer many other services, including maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn your key into the ignition but you don't hear anything but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo 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 also cause your vehicle to lose electrical power, which can lead to the radio or electric window malfunctioning. If your car has been experiencing problems starting in cold weather, this could be an indication that it's time to get a new battery.
Sometimes, your issue might not be due to a dead battery, but a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. This issue can be fixed by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are working correctly.
Key fobs that are not working properly is another common automotive key repair. The key fob is connected to the computer in your car, and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. This system can get confused or cease car key repairs communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed to harsh temperatures or gets wet.
It is usually possible to reset a lost key fob by following the steps in the owner's manual. Depending on the vehicle, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your fob, it might need to be professionally programmed, which will require an expert technician. But it's still worthwhile to try these easy steps before deciding to pay for a new device.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder, which when it is inserted into the ignition, sends out an indication. The signal informs the immobilizer in the car whether it is the right one to be used for starting. In the 1990s, theft of vehicles became such an issue that the majority of manufacturers put this transponder security device in their vehicles for security and insurance reasons.
If you own a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your keys is at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car before you leave. It is located on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in the owner's manual.
Bring your current key with you to a participating AutoZone store and a representative will employ a machine to trace the contours of the key blank to precisely replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on-site by a cutting machine that is precise. If your key is a blade-style or key fob or has a large grey or black head on it, it'll require programming to your specific car before it can be used to start the engine.