From Around The Web: 20 Fabulous Infographics About Automotive Key Repair
From Around The Web: 20 Fabulous Infographics About 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 had this experience when the car's key doesn't turn in the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, like when you're filling your car with groceries or when you're returning home from work.
Rather than panic instead, there are a variety of options to get you back on the road. Here are a few of the most common automotive key repair issues and their possible solutions:
Broken or bent key
A bent key is the most common reason why car owners are unable to start their vehicle. Straightening the key is an easy fix. This might seem easy but be cautious. The key is very thin, and bending it even a little can cause it to break.
You'll need a solid work surface and 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 should be done on a flat surface or in a vise. After that, you can place it in the lock to see if it will turn.
If not, it might be time to get a new key cut. This will avoid having to call a locksmith and can ensure that your key will function.
Keep an extra key in your purse so you're not left without access to your vehicle in the event that your key breaks.
If you have trouble inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying some oil to it. This will enable it to move easier through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. Spray lubricant or graphite powder. If using a spray, be sure to attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure an easier application. This will also help keep moisture from damaging your key.
Stuck pins or springs
A pin (also called a roll pin or a spring) may become stuck. A pin is a small 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends used to connect 2 parts of an equipment. In the majority of instances, it is possible to remove a pin by simply 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 will need to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This process can vary depending on the model of car and the manufacturer.
If you require assistance with your automotive keys or locks, give us a call! We can repair, replace or program nearly any key for your vehicle.
Gear Selector
If your car's gear selector gets stuck in park mode, you need to bring it to an expert mechanic immediately. This is a safety issue and could lead to serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This can also be a sign of bigger problems in the transmission system itself, which could be expensive to fix.
Most times this issue is easily fixable. The cable end that is attached to the lever can snap or become disconnected. The mechanic can repair this within a couple of minutes.
In some cases the bushing of the gear selector might be damaged or worn. The rubber covers are put around the joints of the gear system to make it more fluid. They work in a similar manner as cartilage in your knees, so it's crucial that they stay in good shape and soft.
You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few simple things. It is best to avoid the gear selection during extremely cold weather. The gear control cables can freeze and crack. You should also replace the bushings using premium quality ones, such as those from First Line.
These bushings are a critical component of your gear selector and should not be overlooked. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to go to an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They will help you locate the ideal parts to fix your gear selector apparatus. They can also offer various other services such as maintenance and repair of your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn on your key in the ignition but you don't hear anything but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go here through a natural process which causes them to die prematurely. This is due to the negative plates inside the battery of your car will begin to become coated by sulfate crystals.
A dead battery may cause you to lose the electrical power in your vehicle and cause the radio or electric windows to stop working. If your car is experiencing problems beginning in cold weather, this is an indication that it's time to get an upgrade to your battery.
It's possible that your issue is not caused by an issue with your battery, but rather a malfunction in the charging system. Having your mechanic check to verify that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are functioning properly can solve this issue.
Another common automotive key repair is an ignition key that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob is a small unit that connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays signals and commands between the engine and the accessory systems. This system may become confused or stop communicating if it becomes wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.
Follow the steps in the owner's guide to reset a lost keyfob. Depending on the model of your car it may be necessary to open and close the doors, turn the lights and other electronic devices off and on, press a certain sequence of buttons, or open and shut the windows. If this does not fix your fob it may need to professionally programmed which requires the help of an expert. But it's still worthwhile to try these easy steps before deciding to pay for a new device.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder chip built into them. It transmits a signal to a receiver in the ignition when inserted. The signal informs the immobilizer inside website the car whether the key is the right one to allow it to start. In the 1990s, car theft became a major problem. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system due to safety and insurance reasons.
If you own a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your key may be through a dealership key lock repair near me or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Before you go make a here note of the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). You can find car key repairs near me this number on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in an owner's guide.
Bring your current key along to a participating AutoZone store and an associate will utilize a machine to trace the contours of the key blank to accurately replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with a precise cutting machine onsite. If your key is a blade style or key fob or has a large black or grey head, it'll have to be programmed to the specific car you own before it can be used to start the engine.