Why Nobody Cares About Automotive Key Repair

Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition

We've all had this experience the car keys won't engage in the ignition. It can occur at the worst time, such as when you're filling your trunk full of groceries or driving home from work.

Instead of panicking, there are several different options to get you back on the road. Here are some common automotive key repair problems and their possible solutions:

Broken or bent key

A bent key is the most frequent reason why car owners are unable to start their car. Straightening the key is an easy fix. It may sound simple, but it is important to do this carefully. The key is extremely thin and bending it just one degree can cause it to break.

You'll need a sturdy work surface and a pair of pliers to accomplish this. Take one end of the key with the pliers, and then bend it back until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on an even surface or in a vice. You can then put it into the lock to see if it turns.

If not, it might be time to get a new key cut. This will prevent you from having to call a locksmith and will ensure your key will work.

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 damaged key.

If you are experiencing issues with a broken or bent key, try applying some oil on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder, and will prevent it from getting stuck. It is possible to use a spray lubricant or graphite powder. If you're using a spray be sure to attach the plastic tubing included with it for a more precise application. This will also help prevent water from destroying your key.

Spring pins and springs with pins

A pin (also known as a roll pin, or a spring) may get stuck. Pins are a small piece of steel that measures between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long and has hollow ends. It is used to connect two components of an equipment. In most instances, it is possible to remove pins by pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.

If you have a newer car that uses a key with a microchip in it, there is a chance the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your car. This procedure can differ based on the manufacturer and car.

If you need assistance with your car keys or locks give us a call! We can repair, replace or program virtually any car mobile key repair near me key fob repair (Highly recommended Reading).

Gear Selector

If your car's gear selector gets stuck in park mode, it's important to get it checked by an expert mechanic immediately. This is a security issue and could lead to serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This could be a sign that your transmission system is experiencing bigger problems that are expensive to fix.

Most of the time this issue is easily fixable. The cable end that is connected to the lever could snap or break off. The mechanic can repair this in a few minutes.

In some instances, the bushings on the gear selector may be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that are placed around the articulation points within the gear system, allowing it shift more fluidly. These covers function similar to cartilage joints, and therefore need to be healthy and flexible.

It is not uncommon for them to wear out in time, but there are a few things you can do to prolong their life. You should first avoid using the gear selection during extremely cold weather. This is because the cables that control the gear tend to freeze and cracking. It is recommended to replace the bushings with high quality ones, such as those from First Line.

These bushings form an essential component of your gear selector and should not be overlooked. If you notice that yours is damaged it is best to visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the perfect parts to restore your gear selector device. They also offer many other services like transmission maintenance and service.

Dead battery

If you turn on your key in the ignition and you hear nothing except a click, your battery is dead. Most batteries last between three and five years, and as they get older, they undergo natural processes that cause them to end up dying early. The negative plates of your car battery will start to be coated with sulfate crystalline deposits.

A dead battery can cause your vehicle to lose electrical power, which could result in the radio or electric window malfunctioning. If your car has been having issues starting in cold weather, it is an indication that it is time for an upgrade to your battery.

It's possible that your issue is not caused by an unresponsive battery but a malfunction in the charging system. This issue can be fixed by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all functioning correctly.

Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles 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. This system may be confused or cease communicating if it becomes wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.

It is possible to reset a lost key fob by following the steps in the owner's manual. Based on the model it will require opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronic car key repair near me devices on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this does not fix the issue, your device may require professional programming, which requires the help of a technician. Try these easy methods before you buy an entirely new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys come with a transponder that, when inserted into the ignition, sends out the signal. This signal informs the immobilizer in the car whether the key is the correct one to allow it to start. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became such an issue that the majority of manufacturers installed this transponder security device in their vehicles to ensure safety and insurance reasons.

If you own a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your keys could be through the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car before you leave. You can find this number on the dashboard, the door jamb or in the owner's guide.

Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using a precise cutting machine onsite. If your key is equipped with a blade, a fob or a thick grey or black head it must be programmed to your car before you can use it to start the motor.