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 occurs at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're filling your car with groceries or on your way home from work.
There are many different solutions that can get you back on your way. Here are a few common automotive key problems and solutions:
broken key repair near me or bent key
A bent key is the most common reason a car owner can't start their car. Straightening the key is an easy fix. This may seem simple however, you need to be cautious. The key is very thin and even bending it one degree can cause it to break.
To accomplish this, you'll need an area that is stable, as well as a pair of pliers. Grab one end of the key using the pliers and bend it until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface or in a vise. Then, you can place it in the lock to determine whether it will turn.
If not, it could be time to have a new key cut. There is no need to call a locksmith and your key will still function.
It's a good idea to keep a spare in your pocket, so that you don't end up without an entry point into your vehicle in the event of a lost key.
If you are having trouble inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying oil to it. This will allow it to move easier through the cylinder, and also prevent it from getting stuck. Spray lubricant or graphite powder. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray to get an even more precise application. This will also help stop moisture from ruining your key.
Pins that are snuck or springs
Sometimes, a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring could become stuck. Pins are a small piece of metal that is between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long with hollow ends. It is used to connect two parts of a machine. In most cases you can remove a nut by pulling it off using your fingers or using a wrench.
If you have an older car that is equipped with a microchip key, it is possible that the key needs to be programmed to work with your car. This process can vary depending on the manufacturer and car.
If you need assistance with your automotive keys or locks, give us a call! We can repair, replace, or program almost any vehicle key.
Gear Selector
It is essential to take your vehicle to a mechanic as quickly as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a safety concern and could lead to serious vehicle damage if continue driving. It could also be a sign that the transmission is experiencing more serious problems that are expensive to fix.
Most times, this problem is easily fixable. The most frequent reason the gear selector could get stuck is that one of the cable ends has snapped, or disconnected from the lever itself. The mechanic can fix this within a couple of minutes.
In certain instances, however, the gear selector bushing may get damaged or worn out. The rubber covers are put around the joints of the gear system in order to ensure that it is fluid. These covers function similar to cartilage joints, and therefore must be healthy and flexible.
You can extend the life of your gear selector by doing a few easy things. You should avoid the gear selection in extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables controlling the gear tend to freeze and cracking. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, such as those made by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are an essential component of your gear selector and should not be ignored. 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 to locate the right parts to restore your gear selector apparatus. They can also offer various other services, including maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn the ignition on and hear only a click, then your battery is dead. The average battery lasts between three and five years, and as they get older, they undergo natural processes that cause them to end up dying prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will start to become coated with sulfate crystal deposits.
A dead battery may cause you to lose the power source in your car key repairs and cause the radio or electric windows to stop working. If your car is having problems beginning in cold weather, this is an indication that it is time for a new battery.
It's possible that the problem is not an issue with your battery, but rather an issue with the charging system. A mechanic's check to ensure that the serpentine belt, alternator, and battery cables are working properly could solve this problem.
A key fob that's not functioning properly is another common automotive key repair. The key fob is a small unit that connects to the vehicle's computer and relays commands and signals between the engine and accessory systems. The system may become confused or cease communicating with your car if it is exposed to extreme temperatures or gets wet.
Follow the steps in the owner's guide to reset the keyfob that was lost. Depending on the model of your car, you may need to open and close the doors, turn the lights and other electronic devices on and off, press a certain sequence of buttons, or even open and shut the windows. If this doesn't fix your fob, it could need to be professionally programmed and will require a special technician. But it's still worth attempting these steps before you decide to shell out for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys include a transponder chip built into them. It transmits signals to a receiver inside the ignition when inserted. The signal informs an immobilizer if the key is correct for the car key fob repairs to start. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became a problem that most manufacturers installed this transponder security system into their vehicles for safety and insurance purposes.
If you own a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your keys is at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go make a note of the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in an owner's manual.
Bring your current key along to an AutoZone store, and an associate will utilize machines to trace the contours of the key blank to accurately duplicate the original Mobile key repair. They will then cut the new key using an exact cutting machine on site. If your key has a blade, a fob, or a thick head that is grey or black it will need to be programmed to your car keys repair before you can use it to start the motor.