The Three Greatest Moments In Automotive Key Repair History

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 engage the ignition. It can happen at the worst possible moment, like when you're filling your trunk with groceries or returning home from work.

Instead of panicking, there are several different solutions to get back on the road. Here are a few common car key repair issues and possible solutions:

Broken or bent key

A bent key is the most common reason why a car owner is unable to start their car. It can be repaired by simply bending the key. It might sound easy however it is crucial to do this carefully. The key is thin and could break if you bend it even slightly.

You will need a stable work surface as well as a pair of pliers for this. Pick up one end of the key with the pliers, and then bend it back until it is straight. It is best to do this on the floor or in a vice. You can then put it inside the lock to see if it changes.

If not, it may be time to have a new key cut. You will not have to contact a locksmith and your existing key will function.

Keep a spare key in your purse so you're not without a way to enter your vehicle if yours is damaged.

If you're experiencing problems with a broken or bent key, try applying some lubrication on it before inserting it into the lock. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. It is possible to use a spray graphite or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray to get the most precise application. This will also help to keep moisture from damaging your key.

Pins that are snuck or springs

Sometimes, a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring may become stuck. Pins are a tiny piece of metal that measures between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long with hollow ends. It is used to connect two parts of an equipment. In most instances, you can take out pins by simply pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench.

If you have an older vehicle that has a microchip key it is possible that the key will need to be programmed in order to function with your car. This procedure can be easy or complicated depending on the manufacturer and car.

Contact us if you require assistance with your vehicle locks or keys! We can repair or replace every vehicle key.

Gear Selector

If your car's gear selector gets stuck in park mode, it's crucial to take it to an expert mechanic immediately. This is a safety concern and could result in serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. It could also be a sign that the transmission system is experiencing bigger problems that are expensive to fix.

Most times this issue is easily fixable. The cable end that is attached to the lever could snap or break off. This is a straightforward fix and the mechanic can usually complete the task in a couple of minutes.

In some cases the gear selector bushing may get damaged or worn out. Rubber covers are positioned around the points of articulation of the gear system to keep it fluid. These covers work similarly to cartilage joints, and therefore need to be flexible and healthy.

It's not unusual for them to wear out over time, however there are a few ways to extend their life. You should first avoid using the gear selection during extremely cold weather. The cables for keys controlling the gear can freeze and crack. You should also replace the bushings with high quality ones, such as those from First Line.

These bushings are a critical element of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you find that yours is worn out it is best to visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the right parts to fix your gear selection device. They can also provide you with various other services, including maintenance and repair of your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn on your key in the ignition and hear nothing other than a click, your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through a natural process which causes them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be coated with sulfate crystals.

A dead battery can also cause the loss of the power source in your car key lock repair near me, causing the radio or the electric windows to malfunction. If your car has been having problems starting in cold weather, this is an indication that it is time for an upgrade to your battery.

Sometimes, your issue might not be caused by a dead battery, but rather a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. This issue can be fixed by having your mechanic verify that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all functioning properly.

Another common automotive key repair is an ignition key that isn't working properly. The key fob is connected to the computer in your vehicle and relays signals as well as commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system may become confused or stop communicating if it becomes submerged or is exposed to extreme temperatures.

You can usually reset a lost key fob by following the steps in the owner's manual. Depending on your vehicle, you may need to open and close the doors, switch lights and other electronic devices off and on, press a certain sequence of buttons, or close and open the windows. If this does not fix your fob it may require professional programming which will require the services of a technician. It's worth trying these simple steps before you decide to shell out for a new device.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys include an embedded transponder chip in them that sends an electronic signal to a receiver in the ignition when they are inserted. The signal is sent to an immobilizer to determine that the key is right for the car to begin. In the 1990s, car theft became an issue. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system to ensure safety and insurance reasons.

If you own a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your keys could be through a dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car before you go. This can be found on the dashboard's front, door jamb, or in your owner's manual.

Bring your current key with you to an AutoZone store, and an associate will utilize machines to trace the contours of your key blank to precisely replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site by a cutting machine that is precise. If your key is a blade type or a key fob or has a large grey or black head, it'll have to be programmed to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.