20 Fun Facts About Automotive Key Repair
20 Fun Facts About Automotive Key Repair
Blog Article
Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all had this experience when the car's key doesn't turn in the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're loading your trunk with groceries or on your way home from work.
Rather than panic instead, there are a variety of solutions to get you back on the road. Here are some of the most common key issues with cars and solutions:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most common reason why a car owner is unable to start their car. This can be repaired by simply bending the key. This may seem simple but be careful. The key is extremely thin and could break if bent even slightly.
You'll need a solid work surface as well as a pair of pliers to accomplish this. Hold the key at the other end using the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on the floor or in a vice. Then, you can place it in the lock to see whether it turns.
If not, it might be time to have a new key cut. There is no need to call a locksmith and your key will function.
It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your pocket so that you don't have access to your vehicle in the event of a lost key.
If you have trouble inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying 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 or lubricant. Use the plastic tube that comes with the spray to ensure an even more precise application. This will also help keep moisture from damaging your key.
Spring pins and springs with pins
A pin (also called a roll pin or spring) can become stuck. Pins are a small 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 pieces of an equipment. In most instances, it is possible to remove a pin by simply pulling it out with 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 car. This procedure can be easy or complex depending on the manufacturer and car.
Call us if you need assistance with your vehicle locks or keys! We can repair, replace, or program almost any vehicle key.
Gear Selector
It's crucial to take your car to a mechanic as soon as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety issue, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. It could also be a sign that your transmission system is experiencing bigger problems that are expensive to repair.
Luckily, most of the time this problem can be fixed easily. The most common reason the gear selector could be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped off or separated from the lever itself. The mechanic can repair this issue in a matter of minutes.
In some instances, the bushing of the gear selector could be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that are placed around the joints within the gear system to aid in making it shift more fluidly. These rubber covers function similarly to the cartilage that you have in your joints, which is why they must be healthy and flexible.
It's not uncommon for them to degrade over time, but there are some things you can do to extend 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 with high quality ones, like those from First Line.
These bushings are an essential part of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you find that yours is worn out, it's a good idea to visit an auto repair shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. These experts can emergency car key repair help you locate the right parts to fix your gear selector apparatus. They also offer a variety of other services, including maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn the ignition on and hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. The majority of batteries last between three and five years, and as they get older, they go through natural processes that cause them to end up dying early. This is due to the negative plates inside the battery of your car will begin to be coated with crystals of sulfate.
A dead battery can cause your car to lose power, which can cause the radio to stop working or electric window not working properly. If your car is having problems getting started in cold weather, this could be a good sign that it is time for an upgrade to your battery.
It is possible that your issue is not caused by an unresponsive battery but a malfunction in the charging system. A mechanic's check to make sure that the serpentine belt, alternator, and battery cables are functioning properly can solve this problem.
Key fobs that are not functioning properly is another common issue with automotive keys. The key fob connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays signals as well as commands between the engine and the accessory systems. The system could become confused or cease communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed to harsh temperatures or gets wet.
It is possible to reset the lost key fob following the instructions provided in the owner's manual. Depending on your vehicle you may have to open and close the doors, turn the lights and other electronic devices off and on by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or open and shut the windows. If this doesn't solve your fob, it could need to be professionally programmed and will require an expert technician. However, it's still worthwhile to try these easy steps before you decide to pay for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder that, when inserted into the ignition, transmits an indication. This signal tells an immobilizer that the key is right for the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft became a major issue. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system due to safety and insurance reasons.
If you own a brand new vehicle, the only option to replace your keys is to go to the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go make a note of the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). You can find this number on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in the owner's guide.
Bring your working key to an AutoZone participating store. A representative 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 the spot by a cutting machine that is precise. If your key has a blade, a fob or a thick grey or black head, it will need to be programmed to your car before you can start the motor.