12 Companies That Are Leading The Way In Automotive Key Repair
12 Companies That Are Leading The Way In Automotive Key Repair
Blog Article
Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all experienced this when the car's key doesn't engage in the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient moments, like when you're filling up your trunk with groceries or on your way home from work.
Instead of panicking instead, there are a variety of options to get you back on the road. Here are a few common automotive key problems and solutions:
Broken or bent key
A bent key is the most common reason why a car owner is unable to start their vehicle. Straightening the key is a simple fix. It may sound simple however it is crucial to do this carefully. The key is extremely thin and even bending it a little can cause it to break.
You will need a stable work surface and a pair pliers to do this. Hold the key at the other end using the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on an even surface or in a vice. Then, you can put it inside the lock to see if it turns.
If not, it may be time to get a new key cut. You will not need to call a lock-smith and your existing key will work.
Keep a spare key in your pocket so you don't have a way to enter your vehicle if it is damaged.
If you're experiencing problems with a bent or broken key, try putting some lubrication on it before trying to insert it into the lock. This will allow it to move through the cylinder, and prevent it from becoming stuck. Spray graphite powder or lubricant. If you're using a spray ensure you attach the plastic tubing included with it for a more precise application. This will also help stop moisture from ruining your key.
Stuck pins or springs
A pin (also called a roll pin or spring) can sometimes get stuck. A pin is a small 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends that are used to connect two parts of an equipment. In the majority of instances, it is possible to remove a pin by simply pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench.
If you have an older vehicle that has microchip keys, it is possible that the key will need to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This process is different based on the model of car and the manufacturer.
Contact us if you require assistance with your automotive locks or keys! We can repair, replace, or program almost any vehicle key.
Gear selector
If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, you need 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 your transmission system is experiencing bigger problems, which are costly to fix.
Luckily, most of the time this problem can be easily fixed. Most of the time, the cable end that is attached to the lever could snap or come uncoupled. The mechanic can repair this within a couple of minutes.
In certain instances, the bushing of the gear selector might be damaged or worn. The rubber covers are put around the joints of the gear system in order to keep it fluid. These covers work similarly to cartilage joints, and therefore need to be healthy and flexible.
It's not car key repairs unusual for them to degrade in time, but there are a few things you can do to extend their lifespan. You should first avoid using the gear selection during extremely cold weather. This is because the cables controlling the gear are prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace the bushings with high quality ones, like the ones from First Line.
These bushings are a critical part of your selection of gears and shouldn't be ignored. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to visit an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the right parts to fix your gear selection apparatus. They also offer various other services like maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn your key in the ignition and hear nothing except a click, your battery is dead. The average battery lasts between three and five years, and as they age they undergo an natural process that causes them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be covered with sulfate crystalline deposits.
A dead battery may also cause your vehicle to lose electrical power, which can lead to the radio or electric window malfunctioning. If your car is experiencing problems beginning in cold weather, it is an indication that it's time for an upgrade to your battery.
It's possible that the issue is not due to a dead battery but a malfunction in the charging system. Your mechanic should ensure that the serpentine belt, alternator, and battery cables are working properly could solve this issue.
Another common automotive key repair is an ignition key that has stopped working properly. The key fob is a tiny device that connects to your computer in the vehicle and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. The system could become confused or stop communicating with your car when it is exposed extreme temperatures or is wet.
Follow the steps in the owner's manual to reset the keyfob that was lost. Based on the model it will require opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your device, it could require professional programming, which will require the services of technicians. It's worth trying these simple techniques before purchasing a new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys include a transponder chip built into them that transmits an electronic signal to a receiver within the ignition when it is inserted. The signal informs the immobilizer on the car whether it is the right one for it to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major problem. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system due to security and insurance reasons.
If you own a brand new vehicle, the only way 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). This number is usually found on the dashboard's front or door jamb in your owner's manual.
Bring your existing 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 replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with an exact cutting machine on site. If your key is equipped with blade, fob, or a thick head that is grey or black, it will need to be programmed for your vehicle before you can use it to start the motor.