15 Terms That Everyone Is In The Automotive Key Repair Industry Should Know

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 engage the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient times, like when you're filling up your trunk with groceries or on your way to home from work.

There are a variety of solutions that can get you back on your way. Here are a few common key issues in the automotive industry and solutions:

Broken or bent key

A bent key is the most common reason why a car owner is unable to start their car. Straightening the key is a simple fix. This might seem easy however, you need to be cautious. The key is extremely thin and even bending it small enough could cause it to break.

You will need a stable work surface and a pair pliers to accomplish this. Take the key at one end with the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on an even surface or in a vice. After that, you can place it inside the lock to test whether it will turn.

If not, it may be time to have a new key cut. This will save you from needing to contact a locksmith and can ensure that your key will work.

Keep a spare key in your pocket so you don't have a way to enter your vehicle if yours is damaged.

If you're experiencing problems with a broken or bent key, you can try applying lubrication on it before trying to insert it into the lock. This will allow it to move easier through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use a spray graphite or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray for an even more precise application. This will also help prevent moisture from ruining your key.

Stuck pins or springs

A pin (also known as a roll pin, or a spring) can sometimes become stuck. A pin is a small 2-3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends that are used to connect two components of an equipment. In most instances, you can take out pins by pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench.

If you own an older car that uses a microchip key it is possible that the key will need to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This process is different based on the car and manufacturer.

If you need help with your keys for your vehicle or locks give us a call! We are able to repair or replace any vehicle key.

Gear selector

If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, it's crucial to take it to a mechanic as soon as you notice it. It's a security issue and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This problem can also be a sign of more serious issues in the transmission system itself, which can be expensive to fix.

Most times the issue is fixable. Most often, the cable end that is connected to the lever may snap or become disconnected. This is a simple fix and a mechanic should be able to complete the task within a few minutes.

In some cases the bushings on the gear selector may be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that are placed around the articulation points in the gear system to help it move more easily. These covers work similarly to the cartilage in your joints, which is why they need to be healthy and flexible.

You can extend the life of your gear selector by doing a few easy things. First, you should avoid using the gear selector in very cold weather. The cables for controlling the gear can freeze and crack. You should also replace your bushings, lock key Repair near me for instance the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.

These bushings form an important element of your gear selector, and shouldn't be overlooked. If you notice that yours is damaged, you should visit an auto repair shop specializing in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the right parts to fix your gear selection apparatus. They can also provide a range of other services, including maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn the ignition on but hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo a natural process which causes them to die early. This is due to the negative plates of the battery in your car begin to become coated by crystals of sulfate.

A dead battery can also cause the loss of electrical power within your vehicle and cause the radio or the electric windows to malfunction. If your car key remote repair near me is having problems starting in cold weather, it is a good sign that it is time for an upgrade to your battery.

It's possible that your problem is not a dead battery but a malfunction in the charging system. A mechanic's check to verify that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are working properly could solve this problem.

Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is a key fob that has stopped functioning 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. This system can get confused or cease communicating with your car if it is exposed to extreme temperatures or is wet.

It is possible to reset a lost key fob by following the steps in the owner's guide. Depending on the model of your car you may have to open and close the doors, turn the lights and other electronic devices off and on by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or open and shut the windows. If this does not fix your fob it may require professional programming that will require the assistance of technicians. But it's still worth attempting these steps before deciding to pay for a new device.

Ignition socket

Modern car key remote repair keys include a transponder chip embedded in them that sends signals to a receiver in the ignition when it is inserted. This signal tells an immobilizer if the key is correct for the car to begin. In the 1990s, car theft became a major issue. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system for safety and insurance reasons.

If you have a brand newer vehicle, the only way to replace your key could be through the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Before you go there make a note of the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in the owner's manual.

Bring your current key to an participating AutoZone store and a representative will employ an instrument to trace the contours of your blank key to precisely replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with an exact cutting machine in-store. If your key has a blade, a fob, or a thick grey/black head it must be programmed for your car before you can start the motor.