10 Factors To Know To Know Automotive Key Repair You Didn't Learn At School
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 on the ignition. It could happen at the worst possible time, such as when you're filling your trunk with groceries or returning home from work.
There are repair car key of solutions that will get you back on your way. Here are some of the most common automotive key problems and solutions:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most common reason a car owner can't start their car. Straightening the key is a simple fix. It might sound easy, but it is important to do it with care. The key is extremely thin and may break if you bend it even a little.
You'll need a sturdy work surface and a pair of pliers for this. Grab the key at the other end using the pliers, and bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on a flat surface or in a vice. Then, you can put it inside the lock to test if it will turn.
If not, you may need to have a new one created. This will avoid having to call a locksmith, and will ensure your key will work.
Keep an extra key in your purse so you don't have access to your vehicle if it is damaged.
If you're having difficulty inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying some lubricant to it. This will help it to move easier through the cylinder and prevent it from becoming stuck. It is possible to use a spray lubricant or graphite powder. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray to get the most precise application. This will also prevent water from destroying your key.
Stuck pins or springs
Sometimes a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring may get stuck. Pins are a tiny piece of metal that is between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long and has hollow ends. It is used to connect two components 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 an older car that is equipped with 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 difficult depending on the car's model and manufacturer.
Contact us if you require assistance with your automotive locks or keys! We can repair, replace or program almost any vehicle key.
Selector for gears
If your car's gear selector gets stuck in park mode, it's important to get it checked by a mechanic as soon as you notice it. This is a safety issue and could result in serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This could be a sign that your transmission system is having bigger problems that are expensive to repair.
Luckily, most of the time, this issue can be easily fixed. The cable that is connected to the lever may snap or come uncoupled. The mechanic can fix this issue in a matter of minutes.
In some instances, the bushings of the gear selector may be damaged or worn. The rubber covers are put around the joints of the gear system to ensure that it is fluid. These covers function similar to the cartilage in your joints, and therefore require to be healthy and flexible.
It's not uncommon for them to wear out in time, but there are some ways to extend their life. The first is to avoid using the gear selector in extremely cold weather. The cables for controlling the gear can freeze and break. It is recommended to replace the bushings using premium quality ones, such as those from First Line.
These bushings are an essential part of your gear selector and shouldn't be overlooked. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a great idea to go to an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the correct parts to repair your gear selection device. They can also provide you with various other services, like maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you switch the ignition on but hear nothing but a click then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through a natural process which 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 cause your car to lose electrical power, which can cause the radio to stop working or electric window not working properly. If you have been having difficulties starting your car in cold weather this could be a sign you require a new battery.
Sometimes, the issue may not be caused by a dead battery, but an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. This issue can be solved by having your mechanic verify that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables all work correctly.
Another common automotive key repair is a key fob that isn't working properly. The key fob connects to your vehicle's computer and relays signals as well as commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system could become confused or stop communicating with your car if it is exposed to extreme temperatures or gets wet.
Follow the instructions in the owner's guide to reset a lost keyfob. Depending on your vehicle, you may need to open and close the doors, switch lights and other electronic devices on and off, press a certain sequence of buttons, or even open and shut the windows. If this does not fix your device, it could need to professionally programmed which will require the services of a technician. However, it's still worth trying these simple steps before you decide to shell out for a new device.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder which when it is inserted into the ignition, transmits the signal. 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 an issue. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system to ensure security and insurance reasons.
If you own a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your keys is at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). You can find this number on the dashboard, the door jamb, or in an owner's guide.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will make use of 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-site by a cutting machine that is precise. If the key you are using has a blade, a fob or a thick grey/black head it must be programmed for your car before you can start the motor.