A Trip Back In Time: What People Discussed About Automotive Key Repair 20 Years Ago
Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition
We've all been there: the car key won't turn in the ignition. It could occur at the most inconvenient moment, for instance, when you're filling your car with groceries or returning home from work.
Rather than panic There are many options to get you back on the road. Here are a few of the most common automotive key repair issues and possible solutions:
Broken or bent key
A bent key is the most frequent reason why a car owner is unable to start their car. Straightening the key is an easy fix. It may sound simple but it's important to do it with care. The key is extremely thin and bending it just small enough could cause it to break.
You'll need a sturdy work surface and a pair pliers for this. Grab the key at one end with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on a flat surface or in a vice. You can then put it in the lock to see if it changes.
If not, you might need to get a new one made. There is no need to call a locksmith and your existing key will work.
It's a good idea keep a spare in your pocket, so that you don't end up without an entry point into your vehicle in the event of a lost key.
If you're having difficulty inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying some oil to it. This will allow it to move easier through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. key repairs or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray to get a more precise application. This will also prevent water from destroying your key.
Spring pins and springs that are stuck
Sometimes a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring may get stuck. Pins are a tiny 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends that are used to connect two components of a machine. In most cases you can remove a nut by pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.
If you own an older car that is equipped with a microchip key, it is possible that the key will need to be programmed to function with your car. This procedure can be easy or difficult depending on the car's model and manufacturer.
If you need help with your car keys or locks, give us a call! We can repair, replace, or program almost any vehicle key.
Selector for gears
It's important to get your vehicle to a mechanic as fast as you can when the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a safety concern and could result in serious vehicle damage if continue driving. This could also be a sign that the transmission system is experiencing bigger problems that are expensive to repair.
Luckily, most times, this issue can be easily fixed. Most often, the cable end that is connected to the lever could snap or become disconnected. The mechanic can fix this in a few minutes.
In some cases the bushings on the gear selector might be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that are placed around the articulation points in the gear system to aid in making it move more smoothly. They work in a similar manner to cartilage in your knees, so it's important to keep them in good shape and soft.
You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few basic things. It is best to avoid the gear selection during extremely cold weather. The cables for controlling the gear can freeze and crack. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, like the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are a critical part of your gear selector and should not be overlooked. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a great idea to go to an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the right parts to restore the gear selection system. They can also provide a range of other services, including maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn the key in the ignition and you hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. The majority of batteries last between three and five years, and as they get older, they go through a natural process that causes them to die early. This is due to the negative plates of the battery in your car begin to become coated by sulfate crystals.
A dead battery can also cause you to lose the electrical power in your vehicle and cause the radio or the electric windows to stop working. If your car has been experiencing problems beginning in cold weather, this is a good sign that it is time for an upgrade to your battery.
Sometimes your problem might not be caused by a dead battery, but rather a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. This issue can be fixed by having your mechanic verify that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables all work correctly.
A key fob that's not functioning properly is another common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob connects to the computer in your car and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. The system could become confused or stop communicating if it gets submerged or is exposed to extreme temperatures.
You can usually reset a lost key fob by following the steps in the owner's manual. Depending on the type of vehicle it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronic devices on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your fob, it may require professional programming and will require a special technician. It's worthwhile to try these easy steps before deciding to pay for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder which, when inserted into the ignition, transmits a signal. This signal tells an immobilizer if the key is correct for the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft became a major issue. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system due to security and insurance reasons.
If you have a brand newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key may be through the dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Before you visit note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the dashboard's front, door jamb, or in your owner's manual.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. A representative will make use of a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key in order to accurately duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with an exact cutting machine in-store. If the key you have is a blade-style or a key fob or has a hefty black or grey head, it'll have to be programmed to your specific car before it can be used to start the engine.