Why We Do We Love Automotive Key Repair (And You Should, Too!)
Why We Do We Love Automotive Key Repair (And You Should, Too!)
Blog Article
Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all been there - your car keys won't turn in 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 a variety of solutions to help you get back on your way. Here are a few common automotive key problems and their solutions:
Broken or bent key
The most common reason a car owner cannot start their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is a simple fix. This might seem easy however, you need to be careful. The key is very thin and even bending it small enough could cause it to break.
You'll need a sturdy work surface as well as a pair of pliers to do this. Grab the key at the other end using the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface or in a vise. After that, you can place it inside the lock to see if it will turn.
If not, it could be time to get a new key cut. This will avoid needing to call a locksmith, and will ensure that your key will function.
Keep a spare key in your pocket so you don't have the ability to get into your vehicle in the event that your key is damaged.
If you're having difficulty inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying some lubricant to it. This will allow it to move through the cylinder, and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite as a spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray 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 called a roll pin or a spring) can 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 parts of machines. In most 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 likely that the key will need to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This process can be simple or complex depending on the car's manufacturer and model.
If you need help with your automotive keys or locks, give us call! We can repair, replace or programme nearly any key for your vehicle.
Selector for gears
It's crucial to take your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a safety issue and could lead to serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This could also be a sign that your transmission system is experiencing bigger problems, which are costly to repair.
Fortunately, the majority times, this issue can be fixed easily. The most common reason the gear selector can be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped, or separated from the lever itself. This is a straightforward fix and a mechanic should be able to complete the task in a couple of minutes.
In certain instances the gear selector bushing could get damaged or worn out. The rubber covers are put around the points of articulation of the gear system in order to make it more fluid. These rubber covers function similarly to cartilage joints, so they must be healthy and flexible.
You can extend their life by doing a few basic things. You should first avoid using the gear selection during extremely cold weather. This is because the cables that control the gear tend to freeze and cracking. You should also replace your bushings, for instance the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are an important component of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you find that yours is worn out you must visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the right parts to fix your gear selection device. They also offer a variety of other services like transmission maintenance and service.
Dead battery
If you switch the ignition on but hear only a click, then your battery is dead. The average battery lasts between three and five years, and as they get older, they go through an natural process that causes them to end up dying early. The negative plates of your car battery will start to be coated with sulfate key repair crystals.
A dead battery may cause the loss of electrical power within your vehicle which can cause the radio or the electric windows to malfunction. If you've had difficulty starting your car during cold weather this could be a sign you require a new battery.
It is possible that your problem is not an issue with your battery, but rather an issue with the charging system. A mechanic's check to ensure that the serpentine belt, alternator and battery cables are all functioning properly can solve this issue.
Another common repair for a key in the automotive is an ignition key that isn't working properly. 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 communicating with your car if it is exposed to harsh temperatures or gets wet.
You can usually reset the lost key fob following the instructions provided in the owner's manual. Based on the vehicle you have you may have to open and close the doors, turn lights and other electronic devices off and on and press a particular sequence of buttons, or close and open the windows. If this doesn't solve the issue, your device may need to professionally programmed which will require the services of technicians. It's worth trying these simple techniques before purchasing an entirely new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder that when it is inserted into the ignition, transmits a signal. This signal tells an immobilizer that the key is right for the car to start. In the 1990s, theft of cars became such an issue that many manufacturers fitted this transponder security device in their vehicles to ensure safety and insurance purposes.
If you own a brand new vehicle, the only way to replace your keys is to go to the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in your owner's manual.
Bring your current key to a participating AutoZone store and a representative will employ an instrument to trace the contours of your key blank to accurately replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on-site with a precise cutting machine. If your key is equipped with a blade, a fob or a large grey/black head it must be programmed for your vehicle before you can use it to start the motor.