The Most Effective Reasons For People To Succeed Within The Automotive Key Repair Industry
Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all been there - the car key won't engage in the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, like when you're filling up your trunk with groceries or on your way home from work.
There are a variety of solutions to help you get back on your way. Here are a few common key issues with cars and solutions:
Broken or bent key
A bent key is the most common reason why a car owner is unable to start their vehicle. Straightening the key is an easy fix. It might sound easy, but it is important to do this carefully. The key is very thin and bending it just small enough could cause it to break.
To accomplish this, you'll require an area that is stable, as well as an plier. Take one end of the key with the pliers and bend it back until it is straight. This is best done on a flat surface, or in a vise. Then, you can put it in the lock to see if it changes.
If not, it could be time to get a new key cut. This will prevent you from needing to contact a locksmith and can ensure that your key will work.
Keep a spare key in your pocket so you're not without a way to enter your vehicle in the event that your key is damaged.
If you're having difficulty inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying oil to it. This will allow it move more easily through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can apply graphite or spray lubricant. If you are using a spray, ensure you attach the plastic tubing included with it for an easier application. This will also prevent moisture from damaging your important.
Stuck pins or springs
Sometimes a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring could get stuck. A pin is a small 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends, which are used to connect 2 parts of machines. In most cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it out using your fingers or the wrench.
If you own an older car that is equipped with microchip keys it is possible that the key will need to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This process can vary depending on the car and manufacturer.
If you require assistance with your car keys or locks, give us a call! We are able to repair, replace or program almost every key for your vehicle.
Gear Selector
If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, it's important to take it to an expert mechanic immediately. This is a security issue and could lead to serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. It could also be a sign that your transmission is experiencing more serious issues, which can be costly to repair.
Luckily, most of the time this problem can be fixed easily. Most often, the cable that is connected to the lever could snap or become disconnected. The mechanic can fix this issue in a matter of minutes.
In some cases the gear selector bushing could get damaged or worn out. These are rubber covers that go around articulation points within the gear system to aid in making it move more easily. They work in a similar manner to cartilage in your knees so it's crucial that they stay healthy and flexible.
It's not unusual for them to degrade over time, however there are some ways to extend their life. You should first avoid using the gear selection in very cold weather. This is because the cables controlling the gear are prone to freezing and cracking. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, like the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are an essential component of your gear selector and shouldn't be overlooked. If you notice that yours is damaged it is best to visit an auto repair shop specializing in Land Rover repairs. They will help you locate the ideal parts to repair the gear selector mechanism. They can also offer various other services, like maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you switch the key in the ignition and you hear nothing but a click then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through natural processes that cause them to die prematurely. This is due to the negative plates of the battery of your car will begin to become coated with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery could cause the loss of the power source in your car which can cause the radio or electric windows to fail. If your car is experiencing problems starting in cold weather, this is an indication that it is time for an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes, car key repair service might not be a dead battery, but a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. This issue can be solved by having your mechanic verify that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are working properly.
Another common repair for a key in the automotive is a key fob that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob connects to your vehicle's computer, and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. The system could become confused or stop communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed to extreme temperatures or is wet.
It is possible to reset the lost key fob by following the instructions provided in the owner's guide. Depending on the type of vehicle it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronic devices on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix your fob it may require professional programming, which requires the help of a technician. However, it's still worth attempting these steps before deciding to pay for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder that when inserted into ignition, sends out an indication. This signal tells the immobilizer inside the car if the key is the right one to be used for starting. In the 1990s, car theft became a major issue. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system to ensure safety and insurance reasons.
If you have a newer car, the only way to replace your key may be through the dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Before you go there note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number can be found on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in the owner's guide.
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 in order to precisely replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on the spot by a cutting machine that is precise. If your key has an edge, a fob, or a thick grey/black head it must be programmed to your car before you can start the motor.