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 had this experience the car keys won't turn in the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're loading your trunk with groceries, or on your way home from work.

There are a variety of solutions that will bring you back on the way. Here are a few common automotive key repair problems and their possible solutions:

Broken or bent keys

A bent key is the most common reason why car owners are unable to start their vehicle. This can be easily repaired by simply straightening the key. It may sound simple, but it is important to do it with care. The key is very thin and could break if bent even a little.

You will need a stable work surface and a pair of pliers to accomplish this. Grab one end of the key using the pliers and bend it back until it is straight. It is best to do this on the floor or in a vice. Then, you can put it in the lock to see if it changes.

If not, you might require a new one made. This will save you from needing to call a locksmith, and will ensure your key will function.

It's a good idea keep a spare in your pocket, so you don't have access to your vehicle in the event of a broken key.

If you are having trouble inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying lubricant to it. This will help it move through the cylinder and prevent it from becoming stuck. Spray lubricant or graphite powder. If using a spray, be sure to attach the plastic tubing that came with it for an easier application. This will also help to keep moisture from damaging your key.

Stuck pins and springs

Sometimes, a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring may get stuck. Pins are a small piece of metal that is between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long, with hollow ends. It is used to connect two parts of machines. In most cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.

If you own a newer car that has an electronic key with a microchip in it, there is an opportunity that the key has to be programmed to work with your car. This procedure can be easy or difficult depending on the manufacturer and car.

If you need help with your automotive keys or locks give us a call! We can repair, replace or programme nearly any key for your vehicle.

Gear selector

If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, it's crucial to get it checked by a mechanic as soon as you notice it. It's a safety issue, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This could also indicate more serious issues in the transmission system itself, which could be costly to repair.

Fortunately, the majority times, this issue can be easily fixed. The cable that is connected to the lever may snap or come uncoupled. This is a simple fix, and the mechanic can usually make it within a few minutes.

In certain instances, the bushing of the gear selector could be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that cover articulation points within the gear system to help it shift more smoothly. These covers work similarly to cartilage joints, so they must be flexible and healthy.

You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few easy things. It is best to avoid the gear selection during extremely cold weather. The cables that control the gears can freeze and break. It is recommended to replace the bushings with premium quality ones, like the ones from First Line.

These bushings are a critical component of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you find that yours is worn out, it's a good idea to visit an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you to find the perfect parts to repair your gear selector apparatus. They also offer many other services, including transmission maintenance and service.

Dead battery

If you turn the key in the ignition and you hear only a click, then your battery is dead. The average battery lasts between three and five years and as they age they undergo natural processes that cause them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car key repair near me battery will begin to be covered with sulfate crystal deposits.

A dead battery may cause the loss of electrical power within your vehicle which can cause the radio or electric windows to fail. If your car is having issues getting started in cold weather, this could be an indication that it's time for a new battery.

Sometimes, the issue may not be due to a dead battery, but rather a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. Having your mechanic check to make sure that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are functioning properly can solve this problem.

Another common automotive key repair car key fob is the key fob that has stopped working properly. The key fob is a small device that connects to the vehicle's computer and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system may become confused or cease communicating with your car when it is exposed to extreme temperatures or gets wet.

Follow the directions in the owner's manual to reset the keyfob that was lost. Based on the model it could involve opening and automotive key repair closing the doors, turning lights and other electronic devices on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this does not fix the issue, your device may require professional programming that will require the assistance of technicians. Try these easy methods before you buy an entirely new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder that, when inserted into the ignition, sends out an indication. The signal informs the immobilizer on the car if it is the right one to allow it to start. In the 1990s, car theft became a major problem. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system due to safety and insurance reasons.

If you own a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your key could be at the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car prior to you leave. This number can be found on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in an owner's manual.

Bring your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key in order to precisely replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using an exact cutting machine on site. If your key has blade, fob or a thick grey/black head it must be programmed to your car before you can start the motor.