10 Essentials About Automotive Key Repair You Didn't Learn At School

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

We've all been there when the car's key doesn't turn in the ignition. It can occur at the most inconvenient moment, like when you are loading your car with groceries or heading home from work.

There are a variety of solutions to help you get back on your way. Here are a few common automotive key repair issues and their possible solutions:

Broken or bent keys

The most common reason the owner of a car is unable to begin their vehicle is a bent key. This can be easily fixed by simply straightening the key. It may appear simple but be careful. The key is very thin, and bending it even one degree can cause it to break.

To accomplish this, you will need an area that is stable, as well as pliers. Hold the key at one end with the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. This is best done on a flat surface or in a vise. You can then place it into the lock to see if it changes.

If not, it may be time to have a new key cut. You don't need to call a locksmith and your key will still work.

Keep a spare key in your pocket to ensure you're not without access to your vehicle if yours is damaged.

If you're having issues with a broken or bent key, you can try applying grease on it prior to inserting it into the lock. This will enable it move more easily through the cylinder and stop it from getting 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 for a more precise application. This will also help stop moisture from ruining your key.

Stuck pins and springs

Sometimes a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring can become stuck. Pins are a tiny piece of steel that measures between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long with hollow ends. It is used to connect two pieces of machines. In most instances, you can take out pins by simply pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.

If you have an older car that is equipped with a microchip key, it is possible that the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your car. This process can vary depending on the car and manufacturer.

If you need assistance with your keys for your vehicle 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 safety concern and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This problem is also a sign of more serious issues in the transmission system that could be expensive to fix.

Most of the time this issue is easily fixable. Most of the time, the cable that is connected to the lever could snap or come uncoupled. This is a simple fix, and the mechanic can usually complete the task in a couple of minutes.

In some instances there are instances where the gear selector bushing may get damaged or worn out. These are rubber covers that cover joints within the gear system to aid in making it move more smoothly. These covers work similarly to the cartilage in your joints, so they need to be healthy and flexible.

It is not uncommon for them to wear out over time, however there are a few ways to extend their lifespan. The first is to avoid using the gear selector during extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables that control the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace your bushings, for instance those made by First Line, with high-quality ones.

These bushings are a critical element of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to go to an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you to locate the ideal parts to restore your gear selector apparatus. They also provide a variety of other services, including maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn the ignition key and you hear nothing but a click then 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 begin to be coated with sulfate crystal deposits.

A dead battery could cause the loss of the electrical power in your vehicle, causing the radio or electric windows to malfunction. If you've had difficulties starting your car in cold weather, it could be a sign that you require a new battery.

Sometimes, the issue may not be a dead battery, but rather a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. Having your mechanic check to make sure that the serpentine belt, alternator and battery cables are working correctly can resolve this issue.

A key fob that is not functioning properly is another common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob is a tiny device that connects to your vehicle's computer and relays commands and signals between the engine and the accessory systems. The system could become confused or stop communicating if it becomes wet or exposed to extreme temperatures.

You can usually reset a lost key fob by following the directions in your owner's manual. Depending on the vehicle it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronics on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix the issue, your device may need to professionally programmed that will require the assistance of an expert. It's worth trying these simple methods before you buy a new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys include a transponder chip embedded in them that transmits signals to a receiver in the ignition when inserted. This signal informs the immobilizer on the car whether the key is the right one for it to start. In the 1990s, car theft became a major problem. The majority of manufacturers have installed this transponder system for security and insurance reasons.

If you have a newer vehicle, the only option to change your keys is to visit the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go make a note of the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number).  Full Statement  is usually found on the front of the dashboard or door jamb in your owner's manual.

Bring your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key in order to accurately duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on site with a precise cutting machine. If the key you are using has an edge, a fob or a thick grey or black head it must be programmed to your car before you can start the motor.