20 Fun Informational Facts About Automotive Key Repair
20 Fun Informational Facts About 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 keys won't turn on the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient moments, like when you're filling up your trunk with groceries, or returning to home from work.
There are many solutions that will bring you back on the way. Here are some of the most common key issues with cars and solutions:
Broken or bent key
A bent key is the most common reason why car owners are unable to start their car. This can be repaired by simply straightening the key. This may sound simple however it is crucial to do this carefully. The key is very thin and can break if bent even a little.
To do this, you will need a stable workspace, and a pair of pliers. Grab one end of the key with the pliers and bend it back until it is straight. This is best done on a flat surface or in a vise. You can then put it inside the lock to see if it changes.
If not, it may be time to get a new key cut. You don't need to call a locksmith and your key will still work.
It's a good idea keep a spare in your pocket so that you don't find yourself without access to your vehicle in the event of a lost key.
If you have trouble inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying some lubricant to it. This will allow it to move through the cylinder and will prevent it from getting stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray to get an even more precise application. This will also prevent moisture from damaging your important.
Pins that are snuck or springs
Sometimes a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring could get stuck. Pins are a tiny piece of metal that measures between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long with hollow ends. It is used to connect two pieces of an equipment. In most cases, you can remove pins by simply pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.
If you have an older car that is equipped with a microchip key it is possible that the key will need to be programmed to function with your car. This procedure can differ based on the car and manufacturer.
Call us if you need assistance with your car keys or locks! We can repair, replace, or program almost any vehicle key.
Selector for gears
If your car's gear selector gets stuck in park mode, it's crucial to take it to an expert mechanic immediately. This is a security issue and could result in serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. This could also indicate larger issues with the transmission system that could be expensive to fix.
Most of the time, this problem is easily fixable. The most frequent reason the gear selector can be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped, or become uncoupled from the lever itself. This is a simple fix, and a mechanic will usually complete the task within a few minutes.
In some instances, the bushing of the gear selector could be damaged or worn. The rubber covers are put around the articulation points of the gear system in order to ensure that it is fluid. These covers work similarly to the cartilage in your joints, which is why they must be healthy and flexible.
It's not unusual for them to degrade over time, however there are some things you can do to extend their lifespan. You should avoid the gear selection in extremely cold temperatures. The cables that control the gears could freeze and crack. It is recommended to replace the bushings using premium quality ones, like those from First Line.
These bushings are an essential part of your gear selector and shouldn't be overlooked. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a great idea to go to an auto 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 offer a variety of other services like transmission maintenance and service.
Dead battery
If you turn the ignition key but hear only a click, then your battery is dead. The majority of batteries last between three and five years, and as they get older, they undergo an natural process that causes them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be coated with sulfate crystalline deposits.
A dead battery may cause you to lose the power source in your car which can cause the radio or the electric windows to fail. If you've been having difficulties starting your car in cold weather this could be a sign you require an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes your problem might not be a dead battery, but a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. This problem can be resolved by having your mechanic check that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are working properly.
Another common repair for a key in the automotive is the key fob that isn't working properly. The key fob connects to the computer in your car and relays signals as well as commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system can get confused or stop communicating with your car if it is exposed to extreme temperatures or is wet.
You can usually reset a lost key fob by following the directions in the owner's guide. Depending on the model of your car, you may need to open and close the doors, turn the lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or close and open the windows. If this doesn't work for your fob, it could require professional programming, which will require a special technician. It's worth trying these simple methods before you buy an entirely new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys have a transponder chip built into them. It transmits a signal to a receiver inside the ignition when inserted. The signal informs the immobilizer inside the car if the key is the right one to be used for starting. In the 1990s theft of cars became such a problem that most manufacturers put this transponder security system in their vehicles for safety and insurance purposes.
If you have a brand newer car, the only way to replace your key may be through the dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Before you go note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number can be found on the dashboard, in the door jamb or in the owner's manual.
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 ignition key repair near me to precisely duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site by a cutting machine that is precise. If your key is blade type or key fob or has a thick grey or black head, it will have to be programmed to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.