Guide To Automotive Key Repair: The Intermediate Guide The Steps To 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 emergency car key repair keys won't engage the ignition. It can occur at the worst moment, like when you're filling your trunk with groceries or heading home from work.
Rather than panic instead, there are a variety of options to get you back on the road. Here are a few common automotive key repair problems and their possible solutions:
Broken or bent key
The most common reason why an owner of a car cannot start their car is a bent key. It can be repaired by simply straightening the key. It may sound simple but it's important to do it with care. The key is extremely thin, and bending it even one degree can cause it to break.
To accomplish this, you'll require an area that is stable, as well as a pair of pliers. Take one end of the key using the pliers and bend it back until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface, or in a vise. You can then place it into the lock to see if it turns.
If not, you could require a new one created. This will prevent you from having to contact a locksmith and will ensure that your key will function.
Keep an extra key in your pocket to ensure you're not left without the ability to get into your vehicle if yours breaks.
If you are experiencing issues with a broken or bent key, try putting some lubrication on it before trying to insert it into the lock. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder, automotive key repair and will prevent it from getting stuck. You can apply graphite or spray lubricant. If you're using a spray ensure that you attach the plastic tubing included with it for an easier application. This will also help keep moisture from damaging your key.
Spring pins and springs with pins
Sometimes a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring can get stuck. Pins are a small 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 a machine. In most cases you can take a nut off by pulling it off using your fingers or using a wrench.
If you have an older car that is equipped with microchip keys it is likely that the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your car. This procedure can differ based on the manufacturer and car.
If you require assistance with your automotive keys or locks, give us call! We can repair, replace or programme almost any vehicle key.
Gear Selector
If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, you need to take it to an expert mechanic immediately. It's a safety issue and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This problem can also be a sign of larger issues with the transmission itself, which can be expensive to fix.
Most of the time, this problem is easily fixable. Most often, the cable that is connected to the lever can snap or automotive Key repair become disconnected. This is a simple fix, and a mechanic will usually make it within a few minutes.
In some instances, the bushings of the gear selector could be damaged or worn. These are rubber coverings that cover articulation points in the gear system to help it shift more fluidly. They work in a similar manner to cartilage in your knees so it's important that they stay healthy and flexible.
You can extend their life by doing a few basic things. It is best to avoid the gear selection in very cold weather. This is because the cables that control the gear are prone to freezing and cracking. It is recommended to replace the bushings with high quality ones, like the ones from First Line.
These bushings are an important element of your gear selector, and should not be ignored. If you notice yours is worn out it is best to visit an auto repair shop specializing in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the right parts to restore your gear selection apparatus. They can also offer many other services like maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn your key into the ignition and hear nothing except a click, your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through an natural process that causes them to die prematurely. This is because the negative plates of the battery of your car will begin to be coated with crystals of sulfate.
A dead battery can cause your vehicle to lose power, which can cause the radio to stop working or electric window becoming unresponsive. If you've had difficulties starting your car in cold weather this could be a sign you require a new battery.
Sometimes, the issue may not be a dead battery, but rather a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. Your mechanic should ensure that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are all working properly could solve this problem.
Another common automotive key repair is the key fob that has stopped working properly. The key fob is a tiny device that connects to your vehicle's computer and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system can be confused or stop communicating if it is wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
You can usually reset a lost key fob by following the instructions provided in the owner's manual. Depending on the type of vehicle it will require opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronics on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix your fob it may require professional programming, that will require the assistance of an expert. It's worth trying these simple methods before you buy a new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder chip embedded in them that sends signals to a receiver inside the ignition when it is inserted. This signal informs the immobilizer inside the car whether the key is the correct one for it to start. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became an issue that many manufacturers fitted this transponder security device in their vehicles to ensure safety and insurance purposes.
If you own a newer car, the only way to replace your keys could be through a dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Before you go, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the dashboard, the door jamb, or in the owner's manual.
Bring your current 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 is equipped with a blade, a fob, or a thick grey or black head it must be programmed for your vehicle before you can start the motor.