The Ultimate Glossary Of Terms About 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 key refuses to turn on the ignition. It could happen at the worst possible moment, for instance, when you're loading your car with groceries or driving home from work.
Instead of panicking There are many solutions to get you back on the road. Here are a few common key issues in the automotive industry and solutions:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most common reason a car owner can't start their vehicle. Straightening the key is a simple fix. It may sound simple but it's important to do it carefully. The key is thin and could break if you bend it even slightly.
You will need a stable work surface and a pair pliers to accomplish this. Grab one end of the key with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on a flat surface or in a vice. Then, you can put it in the lock to see if it changes.
If not, it may be time to get a new key cut. This will save you from having to call a locksmith, and will ensure your key will work.
It's a good idea to keep a spare in your pocket so that you don't end up without an entry point into your vehicle in the event of a lost key.
If you're having difficulty inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying oil to it. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder and also prevent it from becoming stuck. It is possible to use a spray graphite powder or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray to get the most precise application. This will also help prevent moisture from damaging your key.
Spring pins and springs that are stuck
Sometimes, a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring may get stuck. Pins are a tiny 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 parts of machines. In most cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.
If you own an older vehicle that has microchip keys it is possible that the key will need to be programmed in order to work with your car. This procedure can differ based on the model of car and the manufacturer.
Contact us for assistance with your vehicle keys or locks! We can repair or replace any vehicle key.
Gear selector
It's crucial to take your car to a mechanic as soon as you can when the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a security issue and could result in serious vehicle damage if continue driving. This problem could also indicate larger issues with the transmission itself, which can be costly to repair.
Most times, this problem is easily fixable. The cable that is connected to the lever could snap or break off. This is a straightforward fix and a mechanic should be able to make it within a few minutes.
In certain instances, the bushing of the gear selector could be damaged or worn. Rubber covers are positioned around the joints of the gear system in order to make it more fluid. They function in a similar way as cartilage in your knees, so it's important that they remain healthy and supple.
It's not uncommon for them to degrade in time, but there are a few things you can do to prolong their life. First, you should avoid using the gear selector in extremely cold temperatures. The gear control cables could freeze and crack. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, such as those made by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings form an essential part of your gear selector and should not be overlooked. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a great idea to go to an auto repair shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you in finding the right parts to restore the gear selection system. They also provide various other services, including maintenance and service for your transmission.
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. This is because the negative plates in the battery of your car will begin to become coated by sulfate crystals.
A dead battery may also cause your vehicle to lose electrical power, which can result in the radio or electric window becoming unresponsive. If your car is experiencing problems beginning in cold weather, this could be a good sign that it's time for a new battery.
Sometimes, the issue may not be caused by a dead battery, but an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. This problem can be resolved by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all functioning properly.
Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is a key fob that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob is a tiny device that connects to the vehicle's computer and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system can be confused or stop communicating if it is submerged or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
You can usually reset a lost key fob by following the directions in the owner's manual. Based on the vehicle you have you may have to open and close the doors, switch lights and other electronic devices off and on, press a certain sequence of buttons, or even close and open the windows. If this doesn't work for your fob, it may require professional programming by a special technician. However, it's still worthwhile to try these easy steps before deciding to pay for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys have an embedded transponder chip in them. It transmits signals to a receiver inside the ignition when they are inserted. The signal informs the immobilizer in the car whether the key is the correct one to be used for starting. In the 1990s, theft of cars became such an issue that the majority of manufacturers installed this transponder security system in their vehicles for security and insurance purposes.
If car key repair near me have a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your keys could be through a dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Before you go there note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the dashboard's front, door jamb, or in your owner's manual.
Bring your current key along to a participating AutoZone store and a representative will utilize machines to trace the contours of the key blank to accurately duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using a precise cutting machine onsite. If your key is blade-style, a key fob, or has a thick grey or black head, it'll need to be programmed to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.