Tips For Explaining Automotive Key Repair To Your Mom
Tips For Explaining Automotive Key Repair To Your Mom
Blog Article
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 engage in the ignition. It can happen at the worst possible time, such as when you are loading your trunk full of groceries or heading home from work.
Instead of panicking, there are several different options to get you back on the road. Here are a few common automotive key repair problems and possible solutions:
Broken or bent key
A bent key is the most frequent reason why car owners are unable to start their vehicle. It can be repaired by simply straightening the key. It might sound easy, but it is important to do it carefully. The key is very thin, and bending it even a little can cause it to break.
To do this, you'll require a stable workspace, and a pair of pliers. Grab the key at one end with the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on a flat surface or in a vice. Then, you can put it in the lock to see if it turns.
If not, it might be time to have a new key cut. There is no need to call a locksmith and your key will still work.
Keep an extra key in your pocket so you don't have access to your vehicle in the event that your key is damaged.
If you have trouble inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying some grease to it. This will enable it move through the cylinder and prevent it from getting stuck. It is possible to use a spray graphite or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray to ensure the most precise application. This will also stop moisture from damaging your important.
Pins that are snuck or springs
Sometimes, a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring can get stuck. A pin is a small 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 parts of machines. In most cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it off using your fingers or the wrench.
If you own an older car that uses a microchip key, it is possible that the key will need to be programmed in order to function with your car. This process can vary depending on the car and manufacturer.
If you need help with your car keys or locks, give us call! We can repair, replace, or program virtually any car key.
Selector for gears
If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, it's crucial to get it checked by a mechanic as soon as you notice it. It's a safety issue, and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This is also a sign of bigger problems with the transmission system itself, which could be costly to repair.
Luckily, most of the time this problem is easily fixable. The most frequent reason the gear selector may be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped, or disconnected from the lever itself. This is a simple fix and the mechanic can usually fix it in a couple of minutes.
In some instances, the bushings on the gear selector might be damaged or worn. These are rubber coverings that cover articulation points in the gear system to help it shift more smoothly. They perform the same function to cartilage in your knees so it's important that they remain healthy and supple.
You can extend their life by doing a few basic things. You should first avoid using the gear selection during extremely cold temperatures. The gear control cables could freeze and crack. It is recommended to replace the bushings using premium quality ones, like those from First Line.
These bushings are a critical part of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to go to an auto repair shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the correct parts to repair the gear selection system. They also offer various other services such as maintenance and service for your transmission.
Dead battery
If you turn your key into the ignition but you don't hear anything but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through a natural process which causes them to die early. This is due to the negative plates inside your car battery will start to become coated by sulfate crystals.
A dead battery could cause you to lose the electrical power in your vehicle and cause the radio or the electric windows to malfunction. If your car is key repair service near me having issues starting in cold weather, it is a good sign that it's time for a new battery.
It's possible that your problem is not an issue with your battery, but rather an issue with 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 the key fob that has stopped working properly. The key fob is connected to your vehicle's computer and relays signals as well as commands between the engine and the accessory systems. The system may become confused or cease communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed harsh temperatures or gets wet.
Follow the directions in your owner's guide to reset a lost keyfob. Depending on the type of vehicle it will require opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronic devices on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix your fob, it may need to be professionally programmed, which will require an expert. However, it's still worth trying these simple steps before deciding to pay for a new one.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys are equipped with a transponder that when inserted into ignition, sends out the signal. This signal informs the immobilizer on the car if it is the right one to be used for starting. In the 1990s, car theft became a major problem. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system to ensure security and insurance reasons.
If you own a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your key could be through a dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car prior to you go. This can be found on the front of the dashboard or door jamb in the owner's manual.
Bring your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. A representative will make use of a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using an exact cutting machine on site. If the key you have is a blade-style, a key fob, or has a thick grey or black head, it'll need to be programmed to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.