12 Companies That Are Leading The Way In Automotive Key Repair
12 Companies That Are Leading The Way In 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 been there - your car keys won't turn in the ignition. It could occur at the worst time, such as when you're filling your trunk with groceries or returning home from work.
There are many different solutions that can bring you back on the way. Here are some common car key repair issues and solutions for them:
Broken or bent key
The most frequent reason an owner of a car cannot begin their vehicle is a bent key. This can be easily repaired by simply bending the key. This might seem easy however, you need to be cautious. The key is extremely thin and could break if you bend it even slightly.
To do this, you will need an area that is stable, as well as a pair of pliers. Take one end of the key with the pliers, and then bend it back until it is straight. This is best done on a flat surface, or in a vise. You can then put it into the lock to see if it turns.
If not, it may be time to get 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 in your pocket, so that you don't have a way into your vehicle in the event of a lost key.
If you have trouble inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying grease to it. This will allow it to move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite as a spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray to get a more precise application. This will also help to stop moisture from ruining your key.
Stuck pins or springs
Sometimes, a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring could get stuck. A pin is a small 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends used to connect two parts of machines. In most instances, you can take out pins by simply pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench.
If you own a newer vehicle that is equipped with keys with microchips in it, there is an opportunity for the key to be programmed to work with your car. This procedure can differ based on the model of car and the manufacturer.
Contact us for assistance with your vehicle locks or keys! We are able to repair, replace or program almost every vehicle key.
Gear selector
It's important to get your car to a mechanic as fast as you can when the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a security issue, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This issue can also be a sign of bigger problems in the transmission system that could be costly to repair.
Luckily, most of the time this problem is easily fixable. Most often, the cable that is connected to the lever may snap or break off. This is a simple fix and a mechanic should be able to complete the task within a few minutes.
In some instances there are instances where the gear selector bushing could become damaged or worn out. These are rubber covers that go around articulation points within the gear system, allowing it move more easily. They work in a similar manner as cartilage in your knees, therefore it is important to ensure that they remain in good shape and soft.
It's not uncommon for them to wear out in time, but there are a few ways to extend their life. It is best to avoid the gear selection during extremely cold temperatures. This is because the gear control cables are prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace the bushings with premium quality ones, like the ones from First Line.
These bushings are an essential part of your gear selector, and shouldn't be overlooked. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a great idea to visit an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help you find the perfect parts to restore your gear selector apparatus. They can also offer a range of other services, like maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn on your key in the ignition and 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. This is due to the negative plates in the battery of your car will begin to become coated by crystals of sulfate.
A dead battery may also cause your vehicle to lose power, which could result in the radio or electric window malfunctioning. If you've had trouble starting your car in cold weather, it could be a sign you need an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes your problem might not be a dead battery, but 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.
Another common automotive key repair is a key fob that has stopped working properly. The key fob connects to the computer in your car and relays signals as well as commands between the engine and the accessory systems. The system could become confused or stop communicating with your car when it is exposed to extreme temperatures or is wet.
You can usually reset a lost key fob by following the steps in the owner's guide. Based on the model it will require opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronic devices on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix your fob, it could need to be professionally programmed by an expert technician. But it's still worth attempting these steps before deciding to pay for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder, which when inserted into ignition, transmits the signal. The signal informs an immobilizer whether the key is in the right place to allow the car 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 for safety and insurance reasons.
If you have a newer car, the only way to replace your key could be through a dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car prior to you go. It is located on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in the owner's manual.
Bring your current key with you to an AutoZone store and an associate will employ an instrument to trace the contours of the key blank to accurately replicate the original key. The new key will be remote key repairs cut on-site with a precise cutting machine. If the key you have is a blade style, a key fob, or has a thick grey or black head, it will need to be programmed to the specific car you own before it can be used to start the engine.