The Top Reasons People Succeed On 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 the ignition. It can occur at the worst moment, for instance, when you're loading your trunk full of groceries or heading home from work.
Instead of panicking, there are several different solutions to get back on the road. Here are some common car key repair issues and possible solutions:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most frequent reason why a car owner is unable to start their car. It can be fixed by simply straightening the key. This may seem simple but be cautious. The key is very thin and could break if bent even slightly.
You'll need a solid work surface as well as a pair of pliers to do this. Grab the key at one end with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on a flat surface or in a vice. Then, you can put it in the lock to see if it changes.
If not, you could require a new one made. You will not have to contact a locksmith and your key will still work.
Keep a spare key in your pocket to ensure you're not without the ability to get into your vehicle in the event that your key breaks.
If you're having issues with a broken or bent key, try applying some grease on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will allow it to move through the cylinder and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray to get a more precise application. This will also prevent moisture from damaging your key.
Stuck pins or springs
Sometimes a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring can get 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 pieces of a machine. In the majority of cases, you can remove a nut by pulling it off using your fingers or the wrench.
If you have an older car that uses microchip keys it is possible that the key will need to be programmed in order to work with your car. This can be a simple or complex depending on the car's model and manufacturer.
If you need assistance with your car keys or locks, give us call! We can repair, replace or programme virtually any car key.
Gear Selector
If your car's gear selector gets stuck in park mode, it's crucial to get it checked by an expert mechanic immediately. This is a safety concern and you could cause serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. This problem could also indicate more serious issues in the transmission system that could be costly to repair.
Fortunately, the majority of the time, this issue can be fixed easily. The most common reason the gear selector may get stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped or disconnected from the lever itself. This is a straightforward fix and a mechanic will usually complete the task within a few minutes.
In some cases, however, the gear selector bushing can be damaged or worn out. The rubber covers are put around the joints of the gear system to ensure that it is fluid. They work in a similar manner as cartilage in your knees, so it's crucial that they stay in good shape and soft.
It is not uncommon for them to wear out in time, but there are a few things you can do to extend their life. The first is to avoid using the gear selector in extremely cold weather. This is because the cables controlling the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace the bushings with premium quality ones, such as the ones from First Line.
These bushings are a critical element of your selection of gears and shouldn't be ignored. If you find 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 correct parts to repair the gear selection system. They can also provide you with many other services, such as maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn your key into the ignition and hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through natural processes that cause them to die early. This is because the negative plates in your car battery will start to become coated by crystals of sulfate.
A dead battery can cause your vehicle to lose power, which can result in the radio or electric window malfunctioning. If you have been having difficulty starting your car during cold weather, this could be a sign you require a new battery.
Sometimes, your issue might not be due to a dead battery, but an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. Your mechanic should ensure that the serpentine belt, alternator, and battery cables are all functioning properly can solve this issue.
A key fob that's not functioning properly is a common automotive key repair. The key fob is connected to the computer in your car and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. This system can become confused or stop communicating if it gets wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.
Follow the steps in your owner's guide to reset the lost keyfob. Based on the model 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 and will require an expert. It's worthwhile to try these easy steps before you decide to shell out for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys include a transponder chip built into them. It transmits an electronic signal to a receiver inside the ignition when it is inserted. The signal informs the immobilizer on the car if the key is the correct one for it to start. In the 1990s theft of cars became such an issue that the majority of manufacturers put this transponder security system in their vehicles to ensure safety and insurance purposes.
If you own a brand new vehicle, the only way to change your keys is to visit the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car prior to you go. You can find this number on the dashboard, in the door jamb or in the owner's manual.
Bring your current key along to an AutoZone store and a representative will employ machines to trace the contours of the key blank to accurately replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site with a precise cutting machine. If repair car keys near me have is a blade type or a key fob or has a thick black or grey head, it'll have to be programmed to your specific car before it can be used to start the engine.