Guide To Automotive Key Repair: The Intermediate Guide Towards 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 keys won't turn in the ignition. It can occur at the worst time, such as when you're filling your trunk with groceries or returning home from work.

There are a variety of solutions that can get you back on your way. Here are a few of the most common automotive key repair problems and solutions for them:

Broken or bent key

A bent key is the most common reason why car owners are unable to start their car. This can be easily repaired by simply straightening the key. This may seem simple but be cautious. The key is thin and could break if bent even a little.

You'll need a sturdy work surface and a pair pliers to do this. Take the key at the other end using the pliers, and bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on a flat surface or in a vice. You can then place it into the lock to see if it changes.

If not, it might be time to have a new key cut. There is no need to call a lock-smith and automotive key repair your key will still work.

It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your pocket, so you don't end up without a way into your vehicle in the event of a broken key.

If you have trouble inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying lubricant to it. This will help it move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from getting stuck. Spray graphite powder or lubricant. Use the plastic tube that comes with the spray to ensure an even more precise application. This will also help stop moisture from ruining your key.

Stuck pins or springs

Sometimes a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring may get stuck. A pin is a small 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends that are used to connect two components of a machine. In most instances, it is possible to remove a pin by simply pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.

If you have a newer car that uses a key with a microchip in it, there is a chance the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This can be a simple or complicated depending on the manufacturer and car.

Contact us for assistance with your vehicle locks or keys! We can repair or replace every vehicle key.

Gear Selector

It's crucial to take your vehicle to a mechanic as fast as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a security issue and could result in serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This could be a sign that the transmission system is experiencing bigger problems that are expensive to repair.

Fortunately, the majority of the time, this issue can be fixed easily. Most of the time, the cable end that is attached to the lever may snap or become disconnected. The mechanic can fix this within a couple of minutes.

In some instances, the bushing of the gear selector might be damaged or worn. The rubber covers are put around the points of articulation of the gear system to make it more fluid. These covers function similar to the cartilage that you have in your joints, so they require to be healthy and flexible.

It's not unusual for them to degrade in time, but there are some ways to extend their life. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector in extremely cold temperatures. This is because the gear control cables tend to freeze 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 notice that yours is wearing out, it's a great idea to go to an auto repair shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the right parts to fix your gear selection apparatus. They can also offer a range of other services, including maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn the ignition on 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 a natural process that causes them to end up dying early. This is due to the negative plates of your car battery will start to become coated with crystals of sulfate.

A dead battery may cause the loss of the electrical power in your vehicle which can cause the radio or the electric windows to malfunction. If your car is experiencing problems getting started in cold weather, this is an indication that it's time for an upgrade to your battery.

It's possible that the problem is not a dead battery but a malfunction in the charging system. This issue can be solved by having your mechanic check that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are all functioning properly.

Another common automotive key repair is an ignition key that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob is connected to the computer in your vehicle, and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system may become confused or cease communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed extreme temperatures or is wet.

Follow the steps in the owner's manual to reset a lost keyfob. Depending on the type of vehicle it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your fob, it might require professional programming, which will require an expert technician. It's worth trying these simple techniques before buying the new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys come with a transponder that, when inserted into the ignition, sends out the signal. The signal informs the immobilizer inside the car if the key is the right one to allow it to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major problem. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system to ensure safety and insurance reasons.

If you own a newer car key repairs near me, the only way to replace your keys could be through the dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Before you go 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 manual.

Bring your current key with you to an participating AutoZone store, and an associate will employ a machine to trace the contours of your blank key to accurately replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on the spot using a precision cutting machine. If the key you have is a blade type or key fob or has a hefty grey or black head on it, it'll have to be programmed to the specific car you own before it can be used to start the engine.