10 Things We Hate About Automotive Key Repair
10 Things We Hate About Automotive Key Repair
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Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all had this experience when the car's key doesn't engage in the ignition. It can occur at the worst moment, like when you're loading your car with groceries or returning home from work.
Rather than panic instead, there are a variety of solutions to get back on the road. Here are a few common key issues in the automotive industry and solutions:
Broken or bent keys
The most common reason an owner of a car cannot begin their vehicle is a bent key. This can be easily repaired by simply straightening the key. It might sound easy however it is crucial to do it with care. The key is very thin, and bending it even one degree can cause it to break.
To accomplish this, you'll require an area that is stable, as well as pliers. Take the key at the other end using the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface or in a vise. You can then put it in the lock to see if it turns.
If not, you might require a new key made. This will prevent you from having to call a locksmith and will ensure that your key will function.
Keep an extra 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 difficulty inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying grease to it. This will allow it to move easier through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. Spray lubricant or graphite powder. Use the plastic tube that comes with the spray to ensure a more precise application. This will also help to prevent moisture from ruining your key.
Pins that are snuck or springs
A pin (also known as a roll pin, or a spring) can get stuck. A pin is a small 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends, which are used to connect 2 parts of machines. In most cases, you can remove a nut by pulling it off using your fingers or a wrench.
If you have a newer car that uses a key with a microchip in it, there is an opportunity that the key has to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This procedure can differ based on the model of car and the manufacturer.
If you need help with your automotive keys or locks, give us a call! We can repair, replace, or program nearly any key for your vehicle.
Gear Selector
It's crucial to take your vehicle to a mechanic as fast as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a safety concern and could lead to serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This problem could also indicate larger issues with the transmission system that could be expensive to fix.
Luckily, most of the time this problem can be easily fixed. Most often, the cable end that is connected to the lever could snap or break off. This is a straightforward fix and a mechanic will usually complete the task in a couple of minutes.
In some instances, the bushings of the gear selector may be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that cover joints within the gear system to help it move more fluidly. They work in a similar manner as cartilage in your knees so it's crucial to keep them in good shape and soft.
You can extend their life by doing a few basic things. You should first avoid using the gear selection in extremely cold weather. This is because the cables that control the gear are prone to freezing and cracking. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, for instance the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are an important component of your gear selector, and should not be ignored. If you notice that yours is damaged you must visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the right parts to restore the gear selection system. They can also offer many other services, such as maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn the ignition key but hear nothing but a click then your battery is dead. Most batteries last here between three and five years, and as they age, they undergo an natural process that causes them to die early. This is due to the negative plates of your car battery will start to become coated with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery can also cause the loss of the power source in your car, causing the radio or electric windows to fail. If your car is having issues beginning in cold weather, this is an indication that it's time to get a new battery.
Sometimes your problem might not be caused by a website dead battery, but a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. This issue can be fixed by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables all work properly.
Another common automotive key repair is the key fob that isn't working properly. read more The key fob is a tiny unit that connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. The system could become confused or cease communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed to extreme temperatures or gets wet.
Follow the directions in your owner's guide to reset the 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 website buttons. If this does not fix the issue, your device may require professional programming which will require the services of an expert. Try these easy techniques before buying the new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder, which, when inserted into the ignition, sends out an indication. The signal informs the immobilizer inside the car if the key is the right one to allow it to start. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became such a problem that most manufacturers fitted this transponder security system in their vehicles for safety and insurance purposes.
If you have a brand newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key could be through a dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Before you visit note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the dashboard, the door jamb, or in an owner's guide.
Bring your working key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member will use a machine that will trace the contours of read more the blank key in order to precisely duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site using a precision cutting machine. If your key is equipped with blade, fob, or a thick head that is grey or black it will need to be programmed for your car before you can start the motor.