20 Trailblazers Setting The Standard In Automotive Key Repair
Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all been there: your car keys won't turn in the ignition. It can happen at the worst possible moment, for instance, when you're loading your trunk with groceries or heading home from work.
Rather than panic There are many solutions to get back on the road. Here are some of the most common key issues with cars and their solutions:
Broken or bent keys
The most common reason why an owner of a car cannot start their vehicle is a bent key. It can be repaired by simply bending the key. This might seem easy however, you need to be careful. The key is thin and could break if bent even a little.
You'll need a sturdy work surface and a pair of pliers for this. Grab the key at one end with the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on an even surface or in a vice. Then, you can put it into the lock to see if it changes.
If not, you might require a new one made. There is no need to call a locksmith and your key will still work.
Keep a spare key in your purse so you don't have access to your vehicle if it breaks.
If you're experiencing problems with a broken or bent key, try applying some lubrication on it before trying to insert it into the lock. This will allow it to move through the cylinder and prevent it from becoming stuck. It is possible to use a spray graphite or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray to ensure the most precise application. This will also prevent water from destroying your key.
Spring pins and springs that are stuck
Sometimes a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring could become stuck. Pins are small 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends used to connect 2 parts of an equipment. In most cases, you can remove pins by pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench.
If you own an older car that uses microchip keys it is possible that the key will need to be programmed to work with your car. This process is different based on the model of car and the manufacturer.
If you need assistance with your car keys or locks give us a call! We can repair, replace, or program virtually any car key.
Gear Selector
If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, it's important to get it checked by an expert mechanic immediately. It's a safety issue, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This problem could also indicate more serious issues in the transmission system itself, which can be expensive to fix.
Fortunately, the majority of the time, this issue is easily fixable. The most common reason the gear selector could get stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped or become uncoupled from the lever itself. This is a simple fix, and the mechanic can usually fix it within a few minutes.
In some instances, however, the gear selector bushing could become damaged or worn out. These are rubber coverings that are placed around the articulation points in the gear system, allowing it move more easily. They function in a similar way to cartilage in your knees therefore it is important to ensure that they stay healthy and supple.
It is not uncommon for them to wear out over time, however there are a few ways to prolong their life. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector in extremely cold weather. The cables for controlling the gear could freeze and crack. You should also replace your bushings, for instance those made by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are an essential element of your gear selector and should not go unnoticed. If you notice yours is worn out, you should visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the right parts to restore your gear selection device. They also offer many other services, including maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn on your key in the ignition and you hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo natural processes that cause them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will start to be covered with sulfate crystalline deposits.
A dead battery may cause you to lose the electrical power in your vehicle which can cause the radio or electric windows to stop working. If your car has been having issues starting in cold weather, it is an indication that it is time for a new battery.
Sometimes, the issue may not be caused by a dead battery, but rather a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. This issue can be solved by having your mechanic verify that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are working correctly.
Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is an ignition key that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob is a small device that connects to your vehicle's computer and relays commands and signals between the engine and the accessory systems. This system can get confused or cease communicating with your car if it is exposed to extreme temperatures or gets wet.
Follow the directions in your owner's guide to reset the keyfob that was lost. Depending on the type of vehicle, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronic devices on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this does not fix your device, it could need to professionally programmed which requires the help of a technician. It's worth trying these simple methods before you buy a new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys have a transponder chip embedded in them that sends an electronic signal to a receiver within the ignition when inserted. The signal is sent to an immobilizer to determine that the key is right for the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major issue. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system for security and insurance reasons.
If you have a newer car, the only way to replace your key may be through the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Before you go there note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the dashboard's front, door jamb, or in the owner's manual.
Bring your current working key to an participating AutoZone store and an associate will utilize a machine to trace the contours of the key blank to precisely replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site using a precision cutting machine. If view it now have is a blade type or key fob or has a thick grey or black head, it'll need to be programmed to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.