10 Meetups About Automotive Key Repair You Should Attend
10 Meetups About Automotive Key Repair You Should Attend
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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 engage the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're filling up your trunk with groceries, or returning home from work.
There are a variety of solutions that will get you back on your way. Here are a few of the most common automotive key repair problems and solutions for them:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most frequent reason why car owners are unable to start their car. Straightening the key is a simple fix. It may sound simple, but it is important to do it with care. The key is extremely thin, and bending it even a little can cause it to break.
You'll need a sturdy work surface and a pair pliers for this. Pick up one end of the key using the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on the floor or in a vice. Then, you can put it into the lock to see if it changes.
If not, it might be time to have a new key cut. You don't have to contact a locksmith and 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're having difficulty inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying lubricant to it. This will allow it to move through the cylinder, and will prevent it from getting stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. If using a spray, ensure you attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure more precise application. This will also stop water from destroying your device.
Stuck pins or springs
Sometimes, a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring may become stuck. Pins are a tiny 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends, which are used to connect two components of an equipment. In most cases, you can remove pins by pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench.
If you have a newer vehicle that is equipped with keys with microchips in it, there's a chance the key needs to be programmed to work with your car. This process is different based on the manufacturer and car.
If you need help with your automotive keys or locks, give us call! We are able to repair, replace or program almost any vehicle key.
Selector for gears
It's crucial to take your car to a mechanic as quickly as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a safety concern and you could cause serious vehicle damage if continue driving. This problem could also indicate more car key repair shops near me serious issues in the transmission system itself, which can be costly to repair.
Most of the time this issue is easily fixable. The most common reason that the gear selector could be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped or separated from the lever itself. The mechanic can fix this issue in a matter of minutes.
In certain instances, the bushing of the gear selector may be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that go around articulation points within the gear system to help it move more smoothly. These covers function similar to cartilage joints, which is why they need to be healthy and flexible.
It's not unusual for them to wear out in time, but there are some things you can do to extend their lifespan. You should first avoid using the gear selection in extremely cold temperatures. This is because the gear control cables are prone to freezing and cracking. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, for instance those made by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are an essential element of your gear selector and should not go unnoticed. If you notice yours is damaged you must visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. These experts can help you locate the right parts to restore the gear selector mechanism. They can also provide various other services, such as transmission service and maintenance.
Dead battery
If you turn the ignition key and you hear only 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 coated with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery could cause the loss of the power source in your car which can cause the radio or the electric windows to malfunction. If you've had difficulties starting your car in cold weather, this could be a sign you need a new battery.
Sometimes, the issue may not be due to a dead battery, but rather a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. This issue can be solved by having your mechanic check that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are all functioning properly.
A key fob that's not working properly is another common automotive key repair. The key fob is connected to your vehicle's computer, and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system can get confused or cease communicating with your vehicle if it is exposed to extreme temperatures or is wet.
Follow the steps in the owner's guide to reset the lost keyfob. Depending on the vehicle it will require opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix your fob, it may need to be professionally programmed by an expert. It's worth trying these simple techniques before buying the new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys include a transponder chip built into them that sends signals to a receiver within the ignition when it is inserted. This signal informs the immobilizer inside the car if the key is the right one to be used for starting. In the 1990s, car theft became a major issue. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system due to security and insurance reasons.
If you own a newer 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 or door jamb in the owner's manual.
Bring your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member will make use of a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with a precise cutting machine onsite. If your key is equipped with blade, fob or a large grey or black head it will need to be programmed for your car before you can use it to start the motor.