Automotive Key Repair: A Simple Definition

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 turn on the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're filling your trunk with groceries, or on your way 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 their possible solutions:

Broken or bent keys

The most common reason why a car owner cannot start their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is a simple fix. This might seem easy, but you must be careful. The key is extremely thin, and bending it even one degree can cause it to break.

You'll need a solid work surface and a pair of pliers to accomplish this. Pick up one end of the key using the pliers and bend it back until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface or in a vise. Then, you can put it inside the lock to see if it turns.

If not, it could be time to get a new key cut. You will not need to call a locksmith and your key will still work.

It's a good idea keep a spare in your pocket so that you don't have an entry point into your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.

If you're having issues with a broken or bent key, you can try applying lubrication on it before inserting it into the lock. This will allow it to move through the cylinder and also prevent it from becoming stuck. It is possible to use a spray graphite or lubricant. Use the plastic tube that comes with the spray to ensure the most precise application. This will also stop moisture from damaging your device.

Stuck pins or springs

Sometimes a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring can become stuck. Pins are small 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends, which are used to connect two parts of a machine. In the majority of cases, you can remove a nut by pulling it out with your fingers or the wrench.

If you own an older car that is equipped with a microchip key, it is possible that the key will need to be programmed to function with your car. This process can be simple or difficult depending on the car's manufacturer and model.

If you need assistance with your keys for your vehicle or locks, give us call! We can repair, car key repair replace, or program almost any vehicle remote key fob repair near me.

Selector for gears

If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, it's important to bring it to a mechanic right away. It's a safety issue and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This problem could also indicate bigger problems in the transmission system itself, which can be expensive to fix.

Most of the time this issue is easily fixable. The cable that is connected to the lever could snap or break off. This is a straightforward fix and a mechanic should be able to complete the task within a few minutes.

In certain instances, the bushings of the gear selector may be damaged or worn. These are rubber coverings that are placed around the joints within the gear system to aid in making it move more smoothly. These rubber covers function similarly to the cartilage that you have in your joints, and therefore must be healthy and flexible.

You can extend the life of your gear selector by doing a few basic things. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector during extremely cold temperatures. The gear control cables can freeze and break. You should also replace your bushings, for instance those made by First Line, with high-quality ones.

These bushings are an important element of your gear selector, and should not be ignored. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to go to an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you in finding the right parts to fix your gear selection apparatus. They also provide a variety of other services such as maintenance and repair of your transmission.

Dead battery

If you switch the key in the ignition and you hear only a click, Car Key Repair then your battery is dead. The majority of batteries last between three and five years and as they age, they go through a natural process that causes them to end up dying early. This is due to the negative plates in your car battery will start to become coated with crystals of sulfate.

A dead battery could cause the loss of electrical power within your vehicle which can cause the radio or electric windows to fail. If your car is experiencing problems getting started in cold weather, this is a good sign that it's time to get an upgrade to your battery.

Sometimes your problem might not be due to a dead battery, but rather a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. This problem can be resolved by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are all functioning correctly.

Key fobs that are not functioning properly is another common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob is a tiny device that connects to your computer in the vehicle and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system could be confused or stop communicating if it becomes submerged or is exposed to extreme temperatures.

Follow the instructions in your owner's guide to reset a lost keyfob. Depending on the model of your car you may have to open and close the doors, turn lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or even open and shut the windows. If this doesn't fix your device, it could need to professionally programmed that will require the assistance of technicians. Try these easy techniques before purchasing a new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys include a transponder chip embedded in them that sends a signal to a receiver inside the ignition when inserted. The signal informs the immobilizer inside the car whether the key is the correct one to be used for starting. In the 1990s theft of cars became such an issue that many manufacturers fitted this transponder security system into their vehicles for security and insurance reasons.

If you have a brand newer car, the only way to replace your key may be through a dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car prior to you leave. This number is usually found on the dashboard's front or door jamb in the owner's manual.

Bring your current remote key fob repair near me to a participating AutoZone store and an associate will employ an instrument to trace the contours of your blank key to precisely replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with an exact cutting machine in-store. If the key you have is a blade-style or key fob or has a hefty black or grey head, it'll have to be programmed to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.