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 could occur at the worst time, such as when you're loading your trunk full of groceries or driving home from work.
There are many different solutions that can help you get back on your way. Here are some of the most common key issues in the automotive industry and their solutions:
Broken or bent key
The most common reason the owner of a car is unable to begin their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is a simple fix. It may appear simple however, you need to be careful. The key is extremely thin, and bending it even small enough could cause it to break.
You'll need a solid work surface as well as a pair of pliers for this. Take the key at the other end using the pliers, and bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on the floor or in a vice. Then, you can place it inside the lock to determine if it will turn.
If not, you may need to have a new one made. This will prevent you from needing to call a locksmith, and can ensure that your key works.
It's a good idea keep a spare key in your pocket so that you don't find yourself without an entry point into your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.
If you are experiencing issues with a bent or broken key, try applying some grease on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder, and will prevent it from getting stuck. It is possible to use a spray graphite powder or lubricant. If you are using a spray, ensure that you attach the plastic tubing that came with it for a more precise application. This will also help to keep moisture from damaging your key.
Spring pins and springs that are stuck
Sometimes a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring can get stuck. Pins are a small piece of steel 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 an equipment. In most cases you can remove a nut by pulling it out using your fingers or the wrench.
If you own a brand new car that has a key with a microchip in it, there's a chance the key needs to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This process can be simple or complicated depending on the car's manufacturer and model.
If you need assistance with your keys for your vehicle or locks, give us call! We are able to repair, replace or program almost every key for your vehicle.
Gear Selector
It is essential to take your car to a mechanic as soon as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a safety concern and could result in serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. This check here problem is also a sign of more serious issues with the transmission system that could be expensive to fix.
Most of the time the issue is fixable. The most common reason the gear selector could get stuck is that one of the cable ends has snapped or disconnected from the lever itself. The mechanic can fix this issue in a matter of minutes.
In certain instances, the bushing of the gear selector may be damaged or worn. These are rubber coverings that are placed around the articulation points in the gear system, allowing it shift more fluidly. They perform the same function to cartilage in your knees so it's important that they remain healthy and supple.
You can extend their life by doing a few easy things. First, you should avoid using the gear selector during extremely cold weather. The cables for controlling the gear can freeze and break. You should also replace the bushings with high quality ones, such as those from First Line.
These bushings are an essential element of your selection of gears and shouldn't be overlooked. 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. They can click here assist you click here in finding the correct parts to repair your gear selection apparatus. They can also provide you with various other services, including transmission service and maintenance.
Dead battery
If you turn the key in the ignition but hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. The average check here battery lasts between three and five years, and as they get older, they undergo an natural process that causes them to end up dying prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will start to be covered with sulfate crystal deposits.
A dead battery may also cause your vehicle to lose electrical power, which can cause the radio to stop working or electric window becoming unresponsive. If you've had difficulties starting your car in cold weather, this could be a sign you need a new battery.
It's possible that the issue is not caused by an issue with your battery, but rather a malfunction in the charging system. This problem can be resolved by having your mechanic verify that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables all work correctly.
Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is the key fob that has stopped working properly. The key fob is connected to your vehicle's computer and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system could become confused or stop communicating if it gets wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
Follow the steps in the owner's manual to reset a lost keyfob. Depending on the vehicle it could 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 work for your fob, it may need to be professionally programmed, which will require an expert technician. Try these easy methods before you buy a new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder that, when inserted into the ignition, sends out the signal. This signal tells an immobilizer whether the key is in the right place for the car to begin. In the 1990s, theft of vehicles became an issue that the majority of manufacturers installed this transponder security system in their vehicles to ensure safety and insurance reasons.
If you have a brand newer vehicle, the only option to replace your keys could be through a dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car prior to you leave. This number is usually found on the dashboard, in check here the door jamb, or in an owner's guide.
Bring your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member will make use of a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with an exact cutting machine on site. If your key is a blade type or key fob or has a hefty black or grey head on it, it'll require programming to the specific car you own before it can be used to start the engine.