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 been there: the car key won't turn in the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, like when you're loading your car with groceries or on your way home from work.

Rather than panic, there are several different options to get you back on the road. Here are a few common automotive key repair problems and possible 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 an easy fix. It might sound easy however it is crucial to do this carefully. The key is very thin, and bending it even one degree can cause it to break.

You will need a stable work surface as well as a pair of pliers for this. Take one end of the key using the pliers and bend it until it is straight. This is best done on a flat surface, or in a vise. Then, you can put it inside the lock to see whether it will turn.

If not, it may be time to have a new key cut. This will save you from needing to call a locksmith, and will ensure that your key will work.

Keep a spare key in your purse so you're not left without the ability to get into your vehicle if it breaks.

If you are having trouble inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying some lubricant to it. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder and also prevent it from becoming stuck. It is possible to use a spray lubricant or graphite powder. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray to get the most precise application. This will also help to keep moisture from damaging your key.

Pins that are snuck or springs

A pin (also called a roll pin, or a spring) may become stuck. Pins are a tiny 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 parts of machines. In the majority of cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it out using your fingers or the wrench.

If you own a brand new car that uses an electronic key with a microchip in it, there's an opportunity that the key has to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This process is different based on the manufacturer and car.

Contact us if you require assistance with your vehicle locks or keys! We can repair, replace or program almost any vehicle key.

Gear Selector

If your car's gear selector gets stuck in park mode, it's crucial to take it to a mechanic as soon as you notice it. It's a security issue and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. It could also be a sign that the transmission system is having bigger issues, which can be costly to fix.

Most times the issue is fixable. The most frequent reason the gear selector may get stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped or become uncoupled from the lever itself. The mechanic can repair this issue in a matter of minutes.

In certain instances, the bushings of the gear selector could be damaged or worn. The rubber covers are put around the articulation points of the gear system to keep it fluid. These covers function similar to the cartilage in your joints, so they need to be healthy and flexible.

You can extend their life by doing a few easy things. You should avoid the gear selection during 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 with premium quality ones, such as the ones from First Line.

These bushings are an essential component of your gear selector, and should not go unnoticed. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a great idea to visit an auto key fob repair repair shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the right parts to fix your gear selection apparatus. They also offer various other services such as maintenance and repair of your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn the ignition on but hear nothing but a click then your battery is dead. As batteries 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 crystals.

A dead battery may also cause your vehicle to lose power, which can result in the radio or electric window malfunctioning. If you've been having difficulty starting your car during cold weather, this could be a sign that you need an upgrade to your battery.

Sometimes, your issue might not be due to a dead battery, but rather an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. This problem can be resolved by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all functioning correctly.

Another common automotive key repair is an ignition key that isn't working properly. The key fob is a tiny device that connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and accessory systems. The system could become confused or cease communicating with your car when it is exposed to extreme temperatures or is wet.

Follow the directions in the owner's guide to reset the lost keyfob. Depending on the type of vehicle, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your fob it may need to professionally programmed that will require the assistance of technicians. It's worth trying these simple methods before you buy an entirely new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder which, when inserted into the ignition, transmits the signal. The signal informs the immobilizer in the car whether it is the right one for it to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major problem. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system to ensure security and insurance reasons.

If you own a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your keys could be through a dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car prior to you go. This can be found on the dashboard's front, door jamb, or in your owner's manual.

Bring your working key to an AutoZone participating store. A representative will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key in order to accurately duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on the spot with a precise cutting machine. If your key has an edge, automotive key repair a fob or a thick grey/black head, it will need to be programmed to your car before you can start the motor.