20 Myths About Automotive Key Repair: Busted
20 Myths About Automotive Key Repair: Busted
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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 most inconvenient moment, for instance, when you're loading your trunk with groceries or driving home from work.
Rather than panic instead, there are a variety of solutions to get back on the road. Here are some common automotive key problems and their solutions:
Broken or bent key
A bent key is the most frequent reason a car owner can't start their vehicle. Straightening the key is a simple fix. This might seem easy but be cautious. The key is very thin and bending it just a little can cause it to break.
To do this, you'll require an area that is stable, as well as pliers. Grab the key at one end with the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on the floor or in a vice. After that, you can place it in the lock to test if it will turn.
If not, you may require a new key made. This will prevent you from having to contact a locksmith and will ensure your key will work.
It's a good idea to keep a spare in your pocket, so you don't have an entry point into your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.
If you're having difficulty inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying grease to it. This will allow it move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from getting stuck. You can use a spray lubricant or graphite powder. If using a spray, ensure you attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure more precise application. This will also help prevent moisture from ruining your key.
Pins that are snuck or springs
Sometimes a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring can get stuck. A pin is a 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 most instances, it is possible to remove pins by pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench.
If you have an older car that is equipped with microchip keys it is likely that the key will need to be programmed to work with your car. This can be a simple or complicated depending on the car's model and manufacturer.
Call us if you need assistance with your car keys or locks! We can repair, replace or program almost any vehicle key.
Gear Selector
It's crucial to take your car to a mechanic as quickly as you can when the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a safety issue and could lead to serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This problem can also be a sign of larger issues with the transmission system that could be expensive to fix.
Fortunately, the majority of the time, this issue is easily fixable. Most often, the cable that is connected to the lever could snap or break off. This is a straightforward fix and the mechanic can usually make it within a few minutes.
In certain instances, however, the gear selector bushing can get damaged or worn out. These are rubber coverings that cover articulation points within the gear system to aid in making it move more fluidly. They function in a similar way as cartilage in your knees therefore it is important to ensure that they stay in good shape and soft.
It is not uncommon for them to degrade over time, but there are some ways to extend their lifespan. It is best to avoid the gear selection in extremely cold weather. The cables for controlling the gear can freeze and crack. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, like the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are a critical component of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you notice that yours is worn out it is best to visit an auto repair shop specializing in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the right parts to restore the gear selection system. They also offer many other services like maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn your car remote key repair shop near me key in the ignition and you hear nothing except a click, your battery is dead. The majority of batteries last between three and five years and as they age, they go through natural processes that cause them to die prematurely. This is due to the negative plates in your car battery will start to be coated with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery can cause your vehicle to lose electrical power, which could result in the radio or electric window becoming unresponsive. If you've had difficulty starting your car during cold weather this could be a sign you need a new battery.
It's possible that the issue is not caused by a dead battery but an issue with the charging system. This problem can be resolved by having your mechanic verify that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are working correctly.
Another common repair for a key in the automotive is a key fob that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob is a tiny device that connects to your computer in your vehicle and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system can get confused or stop communicating with your vehicle if it is exposed to harsh temperatures or gets wet.
Follow the steps in the owner's manual to reset the keyfob that was lost. 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 and press a particular sequence of buttons, or close and open the windows. If this doesn't fix your fob it may require professional programming which requires the help of technicians. However, it's still worth attempting these steps before deciding to pay for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys have a transponder chip built into them. It transmits an electronic signal to a receiver within the ignition when it is inserted. This signal tells the immobilizer inside the car if it is the right one for it to start. In the 1990s, car theft became a major problem. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system for security and insurance reasons.
If you have a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your keys is at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle before you leave. This number is usually found on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in an owner's guide.
Bring your current working key to an AutoZone store and a representative will use machines to trace the contours of your blank key to precisely replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on-site with a precise cutting machine. If the key you are using has blade, fob or a thick head that is grey or black it must be programmed for your vehicle before you can start the motor.