How Automotive Key Repair Changed Over Time Evolution Of Automotive Key Repair
How Automotive Key Repair Changed Over Time Evolution Of Automotive Key Repair
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Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all experienced this - the car key won't turn in the ignition. It could happen at the worst possible moment, like when you're filling your car with groceries or heading home from work.
There are many different solutions to get you back on your way. Here are some of the most common automotive key problems and solutions:
Broken or bent key
A bent key is the most frequent reason why a car owner is unable to start their vehicle. This can be repaired by simply bending the key. It may sound simple however it is crucial to do it carefully. The key is very thin and even bending it small enough could cause it to break.
You'll need a solid work surface as well as a pair of pliers to do this. Take one end of the key with the pliers, and then bend it back until it is straight. This can 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, it could be time to have a new key cut. You will not need to call a locksmith and your key will work.
It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your pocket, so that you don't end up without an entry point into your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.
If you are having trouble inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying grease to it. This will help it move more easily through the cylinder and prevent it from becoming stuck. Spray graphite or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray for 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 can 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 a machine. In the majority of cases, you can remove a nut by pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.
If you have an older car that uses microchip keys it is possible that the key needs to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This process can vary depending on the car and manufacturer.
If you require assistance with your car keys or locks, give us a call! We are able to repair, replace or program almost every key for your vehicle.
Gear Selector
If your car's gear selector gets stuck in park mode, it's important to bring it to a mechanic as soon as you notice it. It's a security issue and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This is also a sign of larger issues with the transmission that could be expensive to fix.
Luckily, most of the time, this issue can be easily fixed. Most of the time, the cable end that is attached to the lever may snap or come uncoupled. The mechanic can fix this within a couple of minutes.
In some instances the gear selector bushing can get get more info damaged or worn out. These are rubber covers that are placed around the articulation points within the gear system to aid in making it shift more fluidly. They work in a similar manner as cartilage in your knees so it's important to keep them in good shape and soft.
You can extend their life by doing a few easy things. First, you should stay clear here of using the gear selector in very cold temperatures. This is because the cables that control the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. It is recommended to replace the bushings with high quality ones, such as the ones from First Line.
These bushings are an essential element of your gear selector, and shouldn't be overlooked. If you notice that yours is damaged you must visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the right parts to restore the gear selection system. They can also offer various other services, like transmission service and maintenance.
Dead battery
If you turn the key in the ignition but hear nothing but a click then your battery is dead. Most batteries last between three and five years and as they get older, they undergo an natural process that causes them to end up dying prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be coated with sulfate crystalline deposits.
A dead battery could cause your vehicle to lose power, which can result in the radio or electric window becoming unresponsive. If you've been having trouble starting your car in cold weather, this could be a sign you require an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes your problem might not be a dead battery, but an issue with the charging system of your vehicle. Having your mechanic check to verify that the serpentine belt, alternator and battery cables are working properly could solve this issue.
Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is the key fob that has stopped working properly. The key fob is a small device that connects to your computer in your vehicle and relays signals here and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. The system could 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 guide. Depending on your vehicle 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 open and shut the windows. If this does not fix your device, it could require professional programming which requires the help of a technician. Try these easy techniques before buying an entirely new fob.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys more info come with a transponder, which when it is inserted into the ignition, transmits the signal. This signal tells the immobilizer in the car whether the key is the right one to allow it to start. In the 1990s, car theft became a major problem. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system for security and insurance reasons.
If you own a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your key could be through the dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car prior to you leave. This number can be found on the dashboard, the door jamb, or in an owner's guide.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. A representative will make use of a machine that read more will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on-site with a precise cutting machine. If your key is blade type or a key fob or has a large black or grey head on it, it'll need to be programmed to your specific car before it can be used to start the engine.