15 Terms Everyone Working 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 turn on the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're filling your trunk with groceries or returning home from work.

There are a variety of solutions that can bring you back on the way. Here are a few common automotive key repair car key fob issues and solutions for them:

Broken or bent keys

The most common reason why an owner of a car cannot begin their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is a simple fix. This may sound simple but it's important to do it carefully. The key is very thin and even bending it a little can cause it to break.

To do this, you will need an area that is stable, as well as pliers. Take the key at the other end using the pliers, and 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, you may need to get a new one made. There is no have to contact a locksmith and your existing key will work.

It's a good idea keep a spare key in your pocket, so you don't have an entry point into your vehicle in the event of a broken key.

If you're having issues with a broken or bent key, you can try applying grease on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will allow it to move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite as a spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray to ensure an even more precise application. This will also help prevent water from destroying your key.

Pins that are snuck or springs

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

If you have an older car that uses a microchip key, it is possible that the key will need to be programmed in order to work with your car. This process can be simple or difficult depending on the car's model and manufacturer.

If you need help with your keys for your vehicle or locks give us a call! We can repair, replace or program nearly any key for your vehicle.

Selector for gears

If your car's gear selector gets stuck in park mode, it's crucial to get it checked by a mechanic right away. This is a safety concern and could lead to serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. This could also indicate bigger problems in the transmission system itself, which can be costly to repair.

Most times the issue is fixable. The most common reason that the gear selector may get stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped off or separated from the lever itself. The mechanic can fix this issue in a matter of minutes.

In some cases, however, the gear selector bushing may be damaged or worn out. These are rubber coverings that are placed around the joints within the gear system to help it move more smoothly. They perform the same function as cartilage in your knees therefore it is important to ensure that they remain in good shape and soft.

You can extend their life by doing a few simple things. First, you should 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 the bushings using premium quality ones, like the ones from First Line.

These bushings are an important component of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you find that yours is worn out, it's a good idea to visit an auto repair shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you to locate the ideal parts to repair car key fob your gear selector device. They also provide a variety of other services such as transmission maintenance and service.

Dead battery

If you turn the key in the ignition and hear nothing but a click then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo natural processes that cause them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be coated with sulfate crystalline deposits.

A dead battery may also cause your car to lose power, which can lead to the radio or electric window becoming unresponsive. If your car is experiencing problems starting in cold weather, this could be an indication that it is time for an upgrade to your battery.

It's possible that your issue is not due to an issue with your battery, but rather a malfunction in the charging system. Your mechanic should ensure that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are functioning properly can solve this problem.

Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is a key fob that has stopped functioning properly. The key fob is a small device that connects to your computer in your vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and the accessory systems. This system can get confused or cease communicating with your car when it is exposed to harsh temperatures or gets wet.

It is possible to reset a lost key repair car fob by following the directions in your owner's manual. Based on the model, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronics on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your fob, it could need to be professionally programmed, which will require an expert. It's worth trying these simple methods before you buy an entirely new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys include an embedded transponder chip in them. It transmits a signal to a receiver inside the ignition when inserted. The signal informs an immobilizer if the key is correct for the car to start. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became such a problem that most manufacturers fitted this transponder security system in their vehicles for safety and insurance reasons.

If you own a newer car, the only way to replace your key may be through the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle before you go. This number is usually found on the dashboard's front or door jamb in your owner's manual.

Bring your current key fob repairs near me along to a participating AutoZone store and an associate will use an instrument to trace the contours of your key blank to accurately duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with a precise cutting machine onsite. If your key is blade style, a key fob, or has a thick grey or black head, it'll need to be programmed to the specific car you own before it can be used to start the engine.