15 Terms That Everyone In The Automotive Key Repair Industry Should Know
15 Terms That Everyone In The Automotive Key Repair Industry Should Know
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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 happen at the worst possible moment, for instance, when you're filling your trunk full of groceries or driving home from work.
There are a variety of solutions to help you get back on your way. Here are a few of the most common automotive key repair issues and possible solutions:
Broken or bent keys
A bent key is the most common reason a car owner can't start their car. Straightening the key is an easy fix. This might seem easy but be cautious. The key is extremely thin and can break if bent even a little.
To accomplish this, you'll require an area that is stable, as well as an plier. 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. You can then place it into the lock to see if it turns.
If not, you may require a new key made. You will not need to call a locksmith and your key will still function.
Keep a spare key in your pocket so you don't have the ability to get into your vehicle in the event that your key is damaged.
If you are experiencing issues with a bent or broken key, you can try applying lubrication on it before inserting it into the lock. This will allow it move through the cylinder and stop it from becoming stuck. You can apply graphite or spray lubricant. If using a spray, ensure you attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure more precise application. This will also help keep moisture from damaging your key.
Stuck pins or springs
A pin (also called a roll pin or spring) can get stuck. Pins are a tiny piece of steel that measures between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long, with hollow ends. It is used to connect two components of machines. In most cases, you can remove pins by pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.
If you own an older car that is equipped with a microchip key it is likely that the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This process can vary depending on the manufacturer and car.
Call us if you need assistance with your automotive locks or keys! We can repair, replace, or program almost any vehicle key.
Gear Selector
It's important to get your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as you can when the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety concern and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. It could also be a sign that your transmission is experiencing more serious problems that are expensive to repair.
Fortunately, the majority of the time, this issue can be easily fixed. Most often, the cable that is connected to the lever could snap or become disconnected. The mechanic can fix this in a few minutes.
In some instances, however, the gear selector bushing can be damaged or worn out. These are rubber covers that cover articulation points within the gear system to aid in making it shift more fluidly. key car repair They function in a similar way to cartilage in your knees so it's important that they stay healthy and supple.
You can extend their life by doing a few basic things. First, you should stay clear of using the gear selector in very cold temperatures. The cables for controlling the gear could freeze and crack. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, like those made by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are a critical part of your selection of gears and shouldn't be ignored. If you find that yours is worn out, you should visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the correct parts to repair the gear selection system. They can also offer a variety of other services such as maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn the ignition key but hear nothing but a click then 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 start to be coated with sulfate crystals.
A dead battery could cause the loss of the power source in your car and cause the radio or the electric windows to fail. If your car has been having problems starting in cold weather, this is a good sign that it's time to get a new battery.
It's possible that the issue is not caused by an unresponsive 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 an ignition key that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob connects to the computer in your car, and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system could be confused or cease communicating if it is wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.
It is usually possible to reset the lost key fob following the steps in the owner's manual. Based on the model it will require opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't work for your fob, it could need to be professionally programmed by a special technician. Try these easy methods before you buy a new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder which when inserted into ignition, sends out an indication. This signal informs the immobilizer inside the car if the key is the correct one to allow it to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major issue. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system due to safety and insurance reasons.
If you own a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your keys is at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you visit, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). It is located on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in your owner's manual.
Bring your working key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will make use of a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key to accurately duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site using a precision cutting machine. If your key is equipped with blade, fob or a thick grey/black head it must be programmed for your vehicle before you can start the motor.