Guide To Automotive Key Repair: The Intermediate Guide In 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 keys won't turn on the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, like when you're filling your trunk with groceries, or returning to home from work.

There are many different solutions that will help you get back on your way. Here are a few common automotive key repair problems and possible solutions:

Broken or bent keys

The most frequent reason an owner of a car cannot start their vehicle is a bent key. This can be easily repaired by simply straightening the key. It may appear simple but be careful. The key is very thin and bending it just small enough could cause it to break.

You'll need a solid work surface and a pair of pliers to accomplish this. 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. You can then put it into the lock to see if it changes.

If not, you may need to get a new one made. This will save you from needing to call a locksmith, and can ensure that your key works.

Keep an extra key in your purse so you're not without a way to enter your vehicle in the event that your key breaks.

If you're having issues with a bent or broken key, you can try applying oil on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. If you are using a spray, ensure you attach the plastic tubing included with it for more precise application. This will also help prevent moisture from damaging your important.

Spring pins and springs that are stuck

Sometimes, a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring could get stuck. Pins are 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 components of an equipment. In most cases you can remove a nut by pulling it off using your fingers or using a wrench.

If you own an older vehicle that has microchip keys, it is possible that the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your car. This process is different based on the model of car and the manufacturer.

If you require assistance with your keys for your vehicle or locks, give us a call! We can repair or replace any vehicle key repairs.

Selector for gears

If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, you need to take it to a mechanic right away. This is a safety concern and you could cause serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. This issue can also be a sign of more serious issues with the transmission itself, which could be costly to repair.

Most of the time the issue is fixable. The most common reason that the gear selector can get stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped off 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 certain instances the gear selector bushing can get damaged or worn out. These are rubber covers that are placed around the joints within the gear system to aid in making it shift more smoothly. These covers function similar to cartilage joints, and therefore must be healthy and flexible.

You can extend their life by doing a few simple things. The first is to avoid using the gear selector during extremely cold weather. The cables for controlling the gear could freeze and crack. You should also replace the bushings using premium quality ones, such as those from First Line.

These bushings are an essential component of your gear selector, and should not be ignored. If you notice yours is damaged it is best to visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the perfect parts to repair the gear selector automotive key Repair mechanism. They can also offer many other services, such as maintenance and repair of your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn your key in the ignition and hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo natural processes that cause them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be covered with sulfate crystals.

A dead battery may cause you to lose the power source in your car and cause the radio or the electric windows to malfunction. If your car has been experiencing problems starting in cold weather, it is a good sign that it's time to get an upgrade to your battery.

Sometimes your problem might not be caused by 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 correctly.

Another common automotive key repair is the key fob that has stopped 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 cease communicating with your car when it is exposed to extreme temperatures or is wet.

Follow the instructions in the owner's manual to reset the lost keyfob. Depending on the type of vehicle, this will involve 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 fob, it could need to be professionally programmed by an expert. It's worth trying these simple steps before you decide to shell out for a new one.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder which when it is inserted into the ignition, transmits the signal. The signal informs an immobilizer whether the key is in the right place for the car to begin. In the 1990s, car theft was a major issue. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system for security and insurance reasons.

If you have a newer vehicle, the only option 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). You can find this number on the dashboard, the door jamb, or in the owner's manual.

Bring your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will use a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key to accurately duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with a precise cutting machine onsite. If the key you have is a blade-style, a key fob, or has a thick grey or black head, it'll need to be programmed to the specific car you own before it can be used to start the engine.