How Automotive Key Repair Changed Over Time Evolution Of Automotive Key Repair
How Automotive Key Repair Changed Over Time Evolution Of Automotive Key Repair
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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: your car key refuses to engage the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, like when you're filling up your trunk with groceries, or when you're returning home from work.
Instead of panicking There are many solutions to get 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 car owners are unable to start their vehicle. Straightening the key is an easy fix. This may seem simple however, you need to be cautious. The key is very thin and may break if you bend it even a little.
To do this, you will need an area with a solid foundation, as well as an plier. Pick up one end of the key with the pliers, and then bend it back until it is straight. This should be done on a flat surface, or in a vise. Then, you can put it inside the lock to see whether it will turn.
If not, you might need to get a new one made. You don't have to contact a locksmith and your existing key will function.
Keep a spare key in your pocket to ensure you're not left without a way to enter your vehicle if yours breaks.
If you are having 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. Spray graphite or lubricant. If using a spray, be sure to attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure more precise application. This will also help prevent moisture from ruining your key.
Spring pins and springs that are stuck
Sometimes, a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring may become stuck. Pins are a tiny 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends, which are used to connect two parts of a machine. In most cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it out with your fingers or the wrench.
If you own an older car that uses a microchip key it is likely that the key will need to be programmed in order to work with your car. This process can be simple or complicated depending on the car's manufacturer and model.
If you need help with your automotive keys or locks give us a call! We can repair, replace, or program almost any vehicle key.
Gear Selector
If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, it's important to bring it to a mechanic as soon as you notice it. It's a security issue and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. It could also be a sign that the transmission is experiencing more serious problems, which are costly to repair.
Fortunately, the majority of the time, this issue can be fixed easily. Most often, the cable end that is attached to the lever could snap or come uncoupled. This is a straightforward fix and a mechanic will usually complete the task within a few minutes.
In certain instances, the bushings on the gear selector might be damaged or worn. Rubber covers are placed around the points of articulation of the gear system in order to make it more fluid. They function in a similar way to cartilage in your knees, so it's crucial that they remain healthy and flexible.
It is not uncommon for them to wear out in time, but there are a few things you can do to extend their life. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector during extremely cold weather. This is because the cables controlling the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace your bushings, like ones made by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are an essential component of your gear selector, and should not go unnoticed. If you find that yours is damaged it is best to visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They will help you locate the ideal parts to restore the gear selector mechanism. They also provide various other services, including transmission maintenance and service.
Dead battery
If you turn your key into the ignition and hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through natural processes that cause them to die prematurely. This is because the negative plates of the battery of your car will begin to be coated with crystals of sulfate.
A dead battery could cause your car to lose power, which can cause the radio to stop working or electric window malfunctioning. If your car is having issues beginning in cold weather, it is an indication that it's time for an upgrade to your battery.
It's possible that your issue is not caused by an unresponsive battery but an issue with the charging system. This issue can be fixed by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are all functioning properly.
Another common automotive key repair is the key fob that isn't working properly. The key fob is connected to the computer in your vehicle, and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system could become confused or stop communicating with your vehicle if it is exposed to extreme temperatures or gets wet.
You can usually reset the lost key fob by following the instructions provided in your owner's manual. Depending on the vehicle, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronic devices on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this does not fix your fob it may need to professionally programmed which will require the services of a technician. However, it's still worth attempting these steps before deciding to pay for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys have a transponder chip embedded in them. It transmits signals to a receiver in the ignition when inserted. This signal tells the immobilizer in the car whether the key is the correct one to be used for starting. In the 1990s, theft of vehicles became an issue that the majority of manufacturers installed this transponder security device in their vehicles for security and insurance reasons.
If you own a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your keys is at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle before you go. It is located on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in the owner's manual.
Bring your current working key to an AutoZone store and an associate will employ repair broken car key machines to trace the contours of the key blank to precisely replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using an exact cutting machine in-store. If your key has a blade, a fob or a thick grey/black head it will need to be programmed for your car before you can start the motor.