It's The Automotive Key Repair Case Study You'll Never Forget

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 occurs at the most inconvenient times, like when you're loading your trunk with groceries, or returning home from work. There are a variety of solutions that can get you back on your way. Here are a few of the most common automotive key repair issues and possible solutions: Broken or bent key The most frequent reason an owner of a car cannot begin their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is a simple fix. This may sound simple but it's important to do it carefully. The key is thin and can break if bent even slightly. You will need a stable work surface and a pair of pliers to do this. Grab one end of the key using the pliers and bend it back until it is straight. This should be done on a flat surface, or in a vise. Then, you can put it inside the lock to determine whether it will turn. If not, it might be time to get a new key cut. This will save you from having to call a locksmith, and will ensure your key works. It's a good idea to keep a spare in your pocket, so that you don't have access to your vehicle in the event of a lost key. If you're having issues with a broken or bent key, try putting some oil on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will help it to move easier through the cylinder and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can apply graphite or spray lubricant. If using key fob repair , ensure you attach the plastic tubing that came with it for more precise application. This will also stop moisture from damaging your important. Stuck pins and springs A pin (also known as a roll pin or spring) may get stuck. A pin is a small 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 pieces of a machine. In the majority of cases, you can remove a pin by simply pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench. If you have a newer car that has an electronic key with a microchip in it, there's a chance the key needs to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This process can vary depending on the model of car and the manufacturer. Contact us if you require assistance with your car keys or locks! We can repair or replace every vehicle key. Gear Selector It's important to get your car to a mechanic as soon as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety concern and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. It could also be a sign that your transmission system is having bigger issues, which can be costly to repair. Most of the time the issue is fixable. Most often, the cable end that is attached to the lever may snap or become disconnected. This is a straightforward fix and a mechanic should be able to make it in a couple of minutes. In some cases the bushing of the gear selector could be damaged or worn. Rubber covers are positioned around the articulation points of the gear system to ensure that it is fluid. They perform the same function to cartilage in your knees therefore it is important to ensure that they stay healthy and supple. It's not unusual for them to wear out over time, but there are some ways to extend their lifespan. It is best to avoid the gear selection in extremely cold temperatures. This is because the gear control cables are prone to freezing and cracking. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, like those made by First Line, with high-quality ones. These bushings are an important element of your gear selector and shouldn't be overlooked. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to visit an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the correct parts to repair your gear selection device. They can also offer many other services, such as transmission service and maintenance. Dead battery If you turn your key in the ignition and hear nothing other than a click, your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo a natural process which causes them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will start to be covered with sulfate crystal deposits. A dead battery may also cause your car to lose power, which could lead to the radio or electric window malfunctioning. If you've had difficulty starting your car during cold weather this could be a sign you need an upgrade to your battery. It's possible that the problem is not a dead battery but an issue with the charging system. A mechanic's check to make sure that the serpentine belt, alternator, and battery cables are working correctly can resolve this problem. Another common automotive key repair is the key fob that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob is a small device that connects to your computer in your vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and accessory systems. The system may become confused or cease communicating with your car when it is exposed to harsh temperatures or gets wet. It is usually possible to reset the lost key fob by following the instructions provided in the owner's manual. Depending on the vehicle it will require opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your fob, it might need to be professionally programmed and will require a special technician. It's worth trying these simple techniques before purchasing an entirely new fob. Ignition socket Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder which when inserted into ignition, sends out the signal. This signal tells an immobilizer whether the key is in the right place to allow the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft became a major issue. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system due to security and insurance reasons. If you own a brand new vehicle, the only option to replace your keys is to go to the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go there note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the dashboard, the door jamb, or in the owner's guide. Bring your current key to an AutoZone store and an associate will use machines to trace the contours of your key blank to accurately duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on-site using a precision cutting machine. If your key is a blade-style or key fob or has a large black or grey head on it, it'll have to be programmed to the specific car you own before it can be used to start the engine.