11 "Faux Pas" That Are Actually OK To Make With Your Automotive Key Repair
11 "Faux Pas" That Are Actually OK To Make With Your Automotive Key Repair
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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 happens at the most inconvenient times, like when you're filling your trunk with groceries, or on your way home from work.
There are many solutions to bring you back on the way. Here are some common automotive key repair issues and solutions for them:
Broken or bent key
A bent key is the most common reason why a car owner is unable to start their car. Straightening the key is a simple fix. This may seem simple, but you must be cautious. The key is extremely thin and could break if you bend it even a little.
To accomplish this, you'll need a stable workspace, and an plier. Take the key at one end with the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on a flat surface or in a vice. You can then place it in the lock to see if it changes.
If not, it might be time to get a new key cut. This will prevent you from having to call a locksmith and will ensure that your key will function.
Keep an extra key in your pocket so you're not without access to your vehicle if yours breaks.
If you're having difficulty inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying some grease to it. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use a spray graphite powder or lubricant. If you're using a spray be sure to attach the plastic tubing that came with it for a more precise application. This will also stop water from destroying your important.
Pins that are snuck or springs
Sometimes a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring could 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 pieces of an equipment. In the majority of cases, you can remove pins by pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.
If you have a newer vehicle that is equipped with a key with a microchip in it, there's a chance the key needs to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This procedure can be easy or complicated depending on the car's manufacturer and model.
Call us if you need assistance with your automotive locks or keys! We can repair, replace, or program nearly any key for your vehicle.
Gear Selector
It is essential to take your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety issue, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This issue can also be a sign of larger issues with the transmission itself, which could be expensive to fix.
Fortunately, the majority times, this issue is easily fixable. The most common reason that the gear selector could get stuck is that one of the cable ends has snapped, or disconnected from the lever itself. The mechanic can fix this issue in a matter of minutes.
In some instances the gear selector bushing can become damaged or worn out. These are rubber covers that are placed around the joints within the gear system to help it shift more smoothly. They work in a similar manner as cartilage in your knees therefore it is important to ensure that they remain healthy and supple.
It is not uncommon for them to degrade in time, but there are some lock and key repair near me things you can do to prolong their life. You should first avoid using the gear selection in very cold temperatures. The gear control cables can freeze and crack. It is recommended to replace the bushings using premium quality ones, such as those from First Line.
These bushings form an important element of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to go to an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the perfect parts to restore your gear selector device. They can also provide you with a range of other services, like maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn on your key in the ignition but you don't hear anything but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo a natural process which causes them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be covered with sulfate crystalline deposits.
A dead battery can cause your vehicle to lose electrical power, which can cause the radio to stop working or electric window becoming unresponsive. If you've had difficulty starting your car during cold weather this could be a sign you need an upgrade to your battery.
It's possible that the issue is not due to a dead battery but a malfunction in the charging system. This issue can be solved by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are all functioning correctly.
Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is a key fob that isn't working properly. The key fob is connected to the computer in your vehicle, and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system may become confused or cease communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed extreme temperatures or gets wet.
You can usually reset the lost key fob following the instructions provided in your owner's manual. Based on the model, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronic devices on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your fob, it could need to be professionally programmed, which will require a special technician. Try these easy methods before you buy a new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder which, when inserted into the ignition, sends out an indication. This signal tells an immobilizer if the key is correct for the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft became an issue. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system to ensure security and insurance reasons.
If you have a brand newer car, the only way to replace your key could be through the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle before you leave. You can find this number on the dashboard, in the door jamb or in the owner's manual.
Bring your current key to an participating AutoZone store, and an associate will employ a machine to trace the contours of your key blank to accurately duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with a precise cutting machine onsite. If your key is blade style or key fob or has a thick grey or black head, it will require programming to your specific car before it can be used to start the engine.