Guide To Automotive Key Repair: The Intermediate Guide On Automotive Key Repair

Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition

We've all been there: the car key won't engage the ignition. It could occur at the worst moment, like when you are loading your trunk full of groceries or heading home from work.

There are many different solutions to get you back on your way. Here are some common automotive key repair problems and possible solutions:

Broken or bent keys

A bent key is the most frequent reason why car owners are unable to start their vehicle. This can be fixed by simply straightening the key. It may appear simple, but you must be cautious. The key is extremely thin and may break if you bend it even a little.

To do this, you'll require a stable workspace, and a pair of pliers. Grab the key on one end with the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. This is best done on a flat surface or in a vise. Then, you can put it inside the lock to determine whether it will turn.

If not, it might be time to get a new key cut. You will not need to call a lock-smith and your existing key will work.

It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your pocket, so you don't have an entry point into your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.

If you are experiencing issues with a broken or bent key, you can try applying oil on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will help it move through the cylinder and stop it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite as a spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray for a more precise application. This will also help keep moisture from damaging your key.

Pins that are snuck or springs

Sometimes a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring can get stuck. A pin is a small piece of steel 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 machines. In the majority of instances, you can take out pins by pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.

If you have an older vehicle that has a microchip key it is possible that the key needs to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This process can be simple or complex depending on the manufacturer and car.

Contact us if you require assistance with your car 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, it's crucial to bring it to a mechanic right away. It's a safety concern, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This issue is also a sign of bigger problems in the transmission system that could be expensive to fix.

Fortunately, the majority times, this issue is easily fixable. The most frequent reason the gear selector could be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped or separated from the lever itself. The mechanic can fix this within a couple of minutes.

In some instances, the bushings on the gear selector may be damaged or worn. These are rubber coverings that go around articulation points within the gear system to help it move more easily. They perform the same function to cartilage in your knees so it's important that they remain in good shape and soft.

You can extend their life by doing a few simple things. It is best to avoid the gear selection in extremely cold temperatures. The cables for controlling the gear can freeze and crack. You should also replace your bushings, such as those made by First Line, with high-quality ones.

These bushings are a critical element of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you notice that yours is damaged, you should visit an auto repair shop specializing in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help you locate the ideal parts to restore your gear selector apparatus. They also offer many other services such as transmission maintenance and service.

Dead battery

If you switch the ignition key but hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. Most batteries last 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 start to be covered with sulfate crystal deposits.

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 has been experiencing problems getting started in cold weather, it is an indication that it's time for an upgrade to your battery.

Sometimes, your issue might not be a dead battery, but rather a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. Having your mechanic check to verify that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are working properly could solve this problem.

Another common automotive key repair is a key fob that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob connects to the computer in your car, and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system can get confused or stop communicating with your car when it is exposed harsh temperatures or gets wet.

Follow the steps in the owner's guide to reset the lost keyfob. Based on the model it will require opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronic devices on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix your fob, it might need to be professionally programmed, which will require an expert technician. It's worth trying these simple steps before you decide to pay for a new one.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys include a transponder chip embedded in them. It transmits a signal to a receiver in the ignition when they are inserted. The signal informs an immobilizer that the key repair shops near me is right for the car to begin. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became an issue that many manufacturers fitted this transponder security system in their vehicles to ensure safety and insurance purposes.

If you own a newer vehicle, the only way 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 leave. You can find this number 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 to precisely duplicate 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 grey/black head it must be programmed to your car before you can use it to start the motor.