7 Simple Strategies To Completely Rolling With Your Automotive Key Repair
7 Simple Strategies To Completely Rolling With Your Automotive Key Repair
Blog Article
Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all experienced this when the car's key doesn't turn in the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're filling your car with groceries or on your way to home from work.
There are a variety of solutions that will help you get back on your way. Here are some common key issues with cars and their solutions:
Broken or bent key
A bent key is the most common reason why car owners are unable to start their car. Straightening the key is an easy fix. This may sound simple but it's important to do it with care. The key is very thin and even bending it small enough could cause it to break.
You'll need a solid work surface and a pair of pliers to accomplish this. Grab one end of the key with the pliers, and then bend it back until it is straight. It is best to do this on an even surface or in a vice. You can then place it in the lock to see if it changes.
If not, it might be time to have a new key cut. You don't have to contact a locksmith and your key will work.
It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your pocket so that you don't end up without access to your vehicle in the event of a broken key.
If you are experiencing issues with a broken or bent key, try applying some oil 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. Use the plastic tube that comes with the spray to get an even more precise application. This will also help prevent water from destroying your key.
Stuck pins and springs
Sometimes a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring can become stuck. Pins are small 2 to 3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends that are used to connect 2 parts of an equipment. In the majority of cases, you can remove a nut by pulling it out using your fingers or the wrench.
If you own an older car that uses a microchip key, it is possible that the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your car. This process can vary depending on the model of car and the manufacturer.
If you need assistance with your car keys or locks, give us call! We can repair, replace or program nearly any key for your vehicle.
Gear selector
It is essential to take your vehicle to a mechanic as quickly as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a security issue and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. It could also be a sign that the transmission system is having bigger issues, which can be costly to repair.
Luckily, most of the time this problem is easily fixable. Most of the time, the cable that is connected to the lever may snap or break off. This is a straightforward fix and a mechanic should be able to fix it in a couple of minutes.
In certain instances, the bushings on the gear selector might be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that are placed around the articulation points in the gear system, allowing it move more smoothly. These rubber covers function similarly to the cartilage that you have in your joints, so they need to be flexible and healthy.
It is not uncommon for them to wear out in time, but there are a few ways to extend their life. First, you should avoid using the gear selector in extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables that control the gear are prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace the bushings with high quality ones, such as the ones from First Line.
These bushings are an essential component of your gear selector, and shouldn't be overlooked. If you find that yours is worn out, it's a great idea to go to an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you in finding the correct parts to repair your gear selection apparatus. They can also provide various other services, like 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 majority of batteries last between three and five years and as they age, they go through an natural process that causes them to end up dying prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be covered with sulfate crystalline deposits.
A dead battery can also cause the loss of electrical power within your vehicle, causing the radio or electric windows to malfunction. If your car has been having problems starting in cold weather, this could be a good sign that it's time for an upgrade to your battery.
It's possible that the problem is not an issue with your battery, but rather a malfunction in the charging system. This issue can be solved by having your mechanic verify that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables all work correctly.
Key fobs that are not functioning properly is a common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob is a small unit that connects to the vehicle's computer and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system may be confused or cease communicating if it gets submerged or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
You can usually reset the lost key fob following the instructions provided in the owner's manual. Depending on the vehicle it will require opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your fob, it may need to be professionally programmed, which will require an expert. It's worth trying these simple steps before you decide to shell out for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder that when it is inserted into the ignition, transmits a signal. This signal tells the immobilizer in the car if the key is the correct one for it to start. In the 1990s, car theft became a major issue. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system for safety and insurance reasons.
If you own a brand new vehicle, the only option to change your keys is to visit the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you visit note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This can be found on the dashboard's front, door jamb, or in your owner's manual.
Bring your current working key along to an AutoZone store and an associate will utilize a machine to trace the contours of your key blank to accurately duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site with a precise cutting machine. If the key you are using has an repair broken car key edge, a fob or a thick grey/black head, it will need to be programmed for your car before you can start the motor.