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 been there: your car key fob repairs key refuses to turn in the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient moments, like when you're filling your trunk with groceries or returning to home from work.

There are a variety of solutions to help you get back on your way. Here are a few common car key repair issues and solutions for them:

Broken or bent key

A bent key is the most common reason a car key fob repair owner can't start their car. It can be repaired by simply bending the key. It may appear simple however, you need to be careful. The key is thin and could break if you bend it even a little.

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

If not, you might require a new one created. This will avoid having to call a locksmith and will ensure your key works.

Keep an extra key in your pocket to ensure you're not without access to your vehicle if it is damaged.

If you're experiencing problems with a bent or broken key, you can try applying oil on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will allow it move more easily through the cylinder and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can apply graphite or spray lubricant. If you are using a spray, ensure that you attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure an easier application. This will also help prevent moisture from ruining your key.

Spring pins and springs with pins

Sometimes, a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring may get stuck. Pins are a tiny 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 components of an equipment. In most instances, it is possible to remove a pin by simply pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.

If you own a newer vehicle that is equipped with an electronic key with a microchip inside, there is a chance the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This process can be simple or complex depending on the manufacturer and car.

If you require assistance with your car keys or locks, give us call! We can repair, replace, or program nearly any key for your vehicle.

Gear Selector

It's important to get your vehicle to a mechanic as quickly as possible if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a security issue and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. It could also be a sign that your transmission is experiencing more serious problems that are expensive to fix.

Most times this issue is easily fixable. The most common reason the gear selector could be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped, or become uncoupled from the lever itself. The mechanic can fix this in a few minutes.

In some instances, the bushings on the gear selector may be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that cover articulation points within the gear system to aid in making it move more smoothly. They function in a similar way as cartilage in your knees, so it's crucial that they stay in good shape and soft.

It is not uncommon for them to degrade in time, but there are a few things you can do to extend their life. First, you should avoid using the gear selector during extremely cold weather. This is because the cables controlling the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace the bushings with high quality ones, such as those from First Line.

These bushings are an essential element of your selection of gears and shouldn't be overlooked. If you find that yours is worn out, it's a great idea to visit an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the correct parts to repair the gear selection system. They can also offer many other services like maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you switch the ignition on but hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through an natural process that causes them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be covered with sulfate crystal deposits.

A dead battery may cause the loss of the electrical power in your vehicle and cause the radio or the electric windows to fail. If you've had difficulties starting your car in cold weather this could be a sign you need a new battery.

It's possible that your issue is not due to a dead battery but an issue with the charging system. This problem can be resolved by having your mechanic check that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables all work properly.

A key fob that is not functioning properly is another common automotive key repair. The key fob is a small device that connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and the accessory systems. This system may be confused or cease communicating if it is wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.

It is usually possible to reset the lost key fob key repair following the directions in the owner's manual. Depending on the vehicle, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronics on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your fob, it might require professional programming by an expert. It's worth trying these simple steps before deciding to pay for a new one.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder, which, when inserted into the ignition, sends out an indication. This signal tells an immobilizer if the key is correct for the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major issue. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system for safety and insurance reasons.

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 there, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). You can find this number on the dashboard, the door jamb or in the owner's manual.

Bring your working key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member will make use of 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 blade style, a key fob, or has a large grey or black head on it, it'll have to be programmed to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.