A Brief History Of The Evolution Of Automotive Key Repair

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 engage the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient moments, like when you're loading your trunk with groceries, or when you're returning home from work.

Instead of panicking, there are several different options to get you back on the road. Here are some common key issues with cars and their solutions:

Broken or bent keys

A bent key is the most common reason why car owners are unable to start their car. Straightening the key is a simple fix. This might seem easy however, you need to be cautious. The key is extremely thin and could break if bent even a little.

You'll need a solid work surface and a pair pliers to accomplish 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 an even surface or in a vice. Then, you can put it in the lock to determine if it will turn.

If not, you might require a new one created. This will prevent you from needing to call a locksmith, and can ensure that your key will work.

Keep an extra key in your purse so you don't have access to your vehicle if yours is damaged.

If you are having trouble inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying some oil to it. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder and prevent it from becoming stuck. Spray lubricant or graphite powder. If using a spray, be sure to attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure an easier application. This will also help prevent moisture from ruining your key.

Stuck pins or springs

Sometimes a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring can 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 parts of an equipment. In the majority of cases, you can remove a nut by pulling it out with your fingers or the wrench.

If you have an older car that uses a microchip key it is possible that the key needs to be programmed in order to function with your car. This process can vary depending on the car and manufacturer.

If you require assistance with your car keys or locks give us a call! We can repair or replace any vehicle key.

Selector for gears

If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, it's crucial to bring it to a mechanic right away. This is a safety concern and you could cause serious vehicle damage if continue driving. This problem can also be a sign of more serious issues with the transmission that could be expensive to fix.

Most of the time the issue is fixable.  car key fob repair near me  could get stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped off or separated from the lever itself. The mechanic can fix this within a couple of minutes.

In some instances the gear selector bushing could be damaged or worn out. The rubber covers are put around the joints of the gear system in order to keep it fluid. They work in a similar manner as cartilage in your knees, so it's important that they stay in good shape and soft.

You can extend their life by doing a few basic things. You should first avoid using the gear selection in very cold weather. This is because the gear control cables tend to freeze and cracking. It is recommended to replace the bushings with premium quality ones, such as those from First Line.

These bushings form an essential part of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you notice yours is worn out, you should visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They will help you locate the right parts to repair the gear selector mechanism. They can also provide you with a range of other services, like maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn your key in the ignition and you hear nothing 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 start to be coated with sulfate crystals.

A dead battery can also cause the loss of the power source in your car which can cause the radio or the electric windows to malfunction. If your car is having problems starting in cold weather, this could be a good sign that it's time for an upgrade to your battery.

Sometimes, the issue may not be a dead battery, but rather a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. Having your mechanic check to make sure that the serpentine belt, alternator and battery cables are all functioning properly can solve this problem.

Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is a key fob that isn't working properly. The key fob connects to your vehicle's computer and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system may become confused or cease communicating with your car if it is exposed to extreme temperatures or is wet.

Follow the instructions in your owner's guide to reset the keyfob that was lost. Based on the model it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronic devices on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix your fob it may require professional programming that will require the assistance of an expert. It's worth trying these simple techniques before buying a new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys come with an embedded transponder chip in them that transmits an electronic signal to a receiver in the ignition when inserted. The signal informs the immobilizer on the car whether the key is the right one to allow it to start. In the 1990s, car theft became a major problem. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system for security and insurance reasons.

If you have a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key may be through a dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Before you go, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This can be found on the dashboard's front, door jamb, or in the owner's manual.

Bring your current key to an AutoZone store and a representative will employ machines to trace the contours of your key blank to accurately duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using an exact cutting machine in-store. If your key is equipped with an edge, a fob or a thick grey/black head, it will need to be programmed for your vehicle before you can use it to start the motor.