10 Things Your Competition Can Learn About Automotive Key Repair
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 can occur at the most inconvenient moment, like when you're filling your trunk full of groceries or driving home from work. Instead of panicking, there are several different solutions to get you back on the road. Here are a few common car key repair issues and possible solutions: Broken or bent keys The most common reason the owner of a car is unable to start their car is a bent key. This can be repaired by simply straightening the key. It may sound simple but it's important to do it with care. The key is very thin and even bending it one degree can cause it to break. To accomplish this, you will need a stable workspace, and pliers. Grab the key at the other end using the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface, or in a vise. Then, you can place it inside the lock to test whether it turns. If not, you could require a new one created. There is no need to call a locksmith and your key will still function. It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your pocket, so you don't have access to your vehicle in the event of a broken key. If you're experiencing problems with a bent or broken key, try putting some oil on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will allow it to move through the cylinder, and prevent it from becoming stuck. It is possible to use a spray graphite or lubricant. If using a spray, be sure to attach the plastic tubing that came with it for a more precise application. This will also help to keep moisture from damaging your key. Pins that are snuck or springs Sometimes a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring may get stuck. Pins are a tiny 2 to 3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends 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 a newer vehicle that is equipped with keys with microchips inside, there is a chance the key needs to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This process can vary depending on the manufacturer and car. Contact us for assistance with your vehicle locks or keys! We can repair, replace or programme nearly any key for your vehicle. Gear Selector If your car's gear selector gets stuck in park mode, it's crucial to bring it to a mechanic as soon as you notice it. This is a safety concern and could result in serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. This problem could also indicate larger issues with the transmission itself, which could be expensive to fix. Most of the time the issue is fixable. The most frequent reason the gear selector may be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped off or disconnected from the lever itself. This is a straightforward fix and the mechanic can usually complete the task in a couple of minutes. In certain instances the gear selector bushing may become damaged or worn out. These are rubber coverings that go around articulation points within the gear system, allowing it move more fluidly. These covers work similarly to the cartilage that you have in your joints, and therefore require to be healthy and flexible. It's not unusual for them to degrade over time, but there are some things you can do to prolong their life. First, you should avoid using the gear selector in very cold weather. The cables that control the gears could freeze and crack. It is recommended to replace the bushings with premium quality ones, such as the ones from First Line. These bushings form an important part of your gear selector and shouldn't be overlooked. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a great idea to visit an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you in finding the right parts to restore your gear selection apparatus. They also offer a variety of other services, including maintenance and repair of your transmission. Dead battery If you turn the key in the ignition and hear nothing but a click then 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 begin to become coated with sulfate crystals. A dead battery can cause your vehicle to lose power, which can cause the radio to stop working or electric window becoming unresponsive. If your car is experiencing problems beginning in cold weather, it is a good sign that it is time for a new battery. Sometimes, your issue might not be due to a dead battery, but rather a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. Your mechanic should ensure that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are functioning properly can solve this problem. Key fobs that are not working properly is another common issue with automotive keys. The key fob is a small device that connects to the computer in the vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and the accessory systems. This system may be confused or cease communicating if it is submerged or is exposed to extreme temperatures. You can usually reset the lost key fob following the directions in the owner's manual. Based on the vehicle you have you may have to open and close the doors, switch lights and other electronic devices on and off, press a certain sequence of buttons, or even shut and open the windows. If this doesn't solve your device, it could require professional programming, which requires the help of technicians. car key fob repair to try these easy steps before you decide to pay for a new device. Ignition socket Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder that, when inserted into the ignition, transmits a signal. This signal tells the immobilizer inside the car whether it is the right one to allow it to start. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became an issue that many manufacturers fitted this transponder security system in their vehicles for security and insurance purposes. If you own a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your key may be through a dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car prior to you go. You can find this number on the dashboard, the door jamb, or in an owner's guide. Bring your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member will use a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site using a precision cutting machine. If your key is equipped with an edge, a fob or a thick grey/black head it must be programmed for your vehicle before you can use it to start the motor.