The Most Common Automotive Key Repair Debate Doesn't Have To Be As Black And White As You Might Think
The Most Common Automotive Key Repair Debate Doesn't Have To Be As Black And White As You Might Think
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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 when the car's key doesn't engage in the ignition. It can occur at the worst moment, for instance, when you're loading your trunk with groceries or returning home from work.
There are a variety of solutions that will help you get back on your way. Here are some common key issues in the automotive industry and solutions:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most common reason why car owners are unable to start their vehicle. Straightening the key is a simple fix. It may appear simple however, you need to be careful. The key is very thin and even bending it one degree can cause it to break.
You will need a stable work surface as well as a pair of pliers for this. Grab the key at one end with the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on an even surface or in a vice. Then, you can put it inside the lock to see if it changes.
If not, it could be time to get a new key cut. You will not have to contact a locksmith and your key will still work.
Keep an extra key in your purse so you're not left without access to your vehicle if it is damaged.
If you are experiencing issues with a broken or bent key, try applying some oil on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will enable it move more easily through the cylinder and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite as a spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray to get the most precise application. This will also prevent moisture from damaging your important.
Spring pins and springs that are stuck
Sometimes, a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring can 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 an equipment. In most cases you can take a nut off by pulling it off using your fingers or a wrench.
If you have an older car that is equipped with microchip keys it is possible that the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This can be a simple or difficult depending on the car's model and manufacturer.
Call us if you need assistance with your car keys or locks! We can repair or replace every key for your vehicle.
Gear selector
If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, it's important to take it to a mechanic as soon as you notice it. This is a safety concern and could result in serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This is also a sign of more serious issues with the transmission itself, which could be expensive to fix.
Most of the time the issue is fixable. The cable end that is attached to the lever could snap or come uncoupled. This is a simple fix and the mechanic can usually fix it in a couple of minutes.
In some instances, however, the gear selector bushing could be damaged or worn out. These are rubber coverings that cover articulation points in the gear system to aid in making it shift more fluidly. These covers work similarly to the cartilage that you have in your joints, so they need to be flexible and healthy.
It's not uncommon for them to degrade over time, but there are some ways to extend their lifespan. It is best to avoid the gear selection during extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables controlling the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace the here bushings with premium quality ones, like those from First Line.
These bushings form an important part of your gear selector, and should not be ignored. If you find that yours is damaged, you should visit an auto repair shop specializing in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the right parts to fix the gear selection system. They also provide many other services such as maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn on your key in the ignition and you hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. Most batteries last between three and five years and as they age they go through natural processes that cause them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be covered with sulfate crystal deposits.
A dead battery can also cause the loss of the power source in your car and cause the radio or the electric windows to stop working. If you have been having difficulty starting your car during cold weather this could be a sign you require an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes your problem might not be due to a dead battery, but a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. This issue can be solved by having your mechanic check that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are working properly.
A key fob that's not working properly is another common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob is a small unit 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 if it is exposed to extreme temperatures or gets wet.
It is usually possible to reset the lost key fob following the directions in your owner's manual. Depending on the type of vehicle, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronics on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your fob it may require professional programming, which will require the services of an expert. However, it's still worth trying these simple steps before you decide to shell out for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder chip built into them. It transmits an electronic signal to a receiver within the ignition when they are inserted. The signal informs the immobilizer on the car if here the key is the right one get more info to be here used for starting. In the 1990s, car theft became a major problem. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system for security and insurance reasons.
If you have a brand newer vehicle, the only way to replace your keys could be through the dealership or get more info by calling the manufacturer directly. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle before you leave. It is located on the dashboard's front or door jamb in the owner's manual.
Bring your working key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key in order to accurately duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using an exact cutting machine on site. If the key you have is a blade-style or key fob or has a thick grey or black head, it'll have to be programmed to the specific car you own before it can be used to start the engine.