Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition We've all been there - your car key refuses to turn on the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient times, like when you're filling your trunk with groceries or when you're returning to home from work. There are many solutions that can help you get back on your way. Here are a few common automotive key repair issues and solutions for them: Broken or bent keys A bent key is the most common reason why car owners are unable to start their car. This can be repaired by simply straightening the key. This might seem easy however, you need to be careful. The key is very thin, and bending it even small enough could cause it to break. To do this, you'll need an area that is stable, as well as a pair of pliers. Grab the key on one end with the pliers, and 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 in the lock to test whether it will turn. If not, it may be time to have a new key cut. This will prevent you from needing to call a locksmith and will ensure your key will work. Keep a spare key in your pocket to ensure you're not without access to your vehicle if it is damaged. If you're having difficulty inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying some lubricant to it. This will allow it move more easily through the cylinder and stop it from becoming stuck. You can use a spray graphite or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray to get the most precise application. This will also help stop moisture from ruining your key. Spring pins and springs with pins Sometimes, a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring can become stuck. A pin is 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 components of a machine. In most instances, it is possible to remove pins by simply pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench. If you own an older car that uses a microchip key, it is possible that the key needs to be programmed to work with your car. This process can vary depending on the model of car and the manufacturer. Contact us for assistance with your car keys or locks! We are able to repair, replace or program almost every vehicle key. Gear Selector It is essential to take your vehicle to a mechanic as fast as you can when the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety issue, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This could be a sign that your transmission system is experiencing bigger problems, which are costly to fix. Most of the time the issue is fixable. Most of the time, the cable that is connected to the lever could snap or become disconnected. This is a straightforward fix and a mechanic should be able to fix it in a couple of minutes. In certain instances the gear selector bushing may become damaged or worn out. These are rubber coverings that are placed around the joints within the gear system to aid in making it move more smoothly. They function in a similar way to cartilage in your knees, so it's important to keep them healthy and flexible. It is not uncommon for them to wear out over time, however there are a few things you can do to extend their life. First, you should avoid using the gear selector in extremely cold weather. This is because the cables that control the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. It is recommended to replace the bushings using premium quality ones, such as those from First Line. These bushings are an essential element of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to visit an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the right parts to fix the gear selection system. They can also offer a variety of other services, including transmission maintenance and service. Dead battery If you turn the ignition key but hear nothing but a click then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo a natural process which causes them to die prematurely. This is due to the negative plates in the battery in your car begin to become coated with sulfate crystals. A dead battery could cause your vehicle to lose electrical power, which can cause the radio to stop working or electric window not working properly. If your car has been experiencing problems starting in cold weather, this could be an indication that it's time to get a new battery. Sometimes your problem might not be due to a dead battery, but rather a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. Having your mechanic check to make sure that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all working correctly can resolve this issue. A key fob that's not working properly is another common issue with automotive keys. The key fob is a tiny 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 stop communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed extreme temperatures or is wet. It is possible to reset a lost key fob by following the instructions provided in the owner's manual. Depending on key fob repairs of your car you may have to open and close the doors, switch lights and other electronic devices off and on, press a certain sequence of buttons, or even close and open the windows. 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 deciding to pay for a new one. Ignition socket Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder, which when it is inserted into the ignition, sends out a signal. This signal informs the immobilizer in the car if the key is the correct one for it to start. In the 1990s, car theft became an issue. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system for security and insurance reasons. If you have a brand newer car, the only way to replace your key could be through a dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car prior to you go. This number can be found on the dashboard, in the door jamb or in the owner's guide. Bring your current key along to an participating AutoZone store, and an associate will utilize a machine to trace the contours of your key blank to accurately duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on the spot by a cutting machine that is precise. If your key is blade style or a key fob or has a large grey or black head, it'll have to be programmed to your specific car before it can be used to start the engine.
key fob repairs
