15 Terms Everybody Within 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 keys won't turn in the ignition. It happens at the most inconvenient times, such as when you're filling your trunk with groceries, or returning home from work.

Instead of panicking There are many options to get you back on the road. Here are a few common key issues in the automotive industry and their solutions:

Broken or bent keys

A bent key is the most common reason why car owners are unable to start their car. Straightening the key is an easy fix. This might seem easy however, you need to be careful. The key is very thin and even bending it a little can cause it to break.

You will need a stable work surface as well as a pair of pliers for this. Take one end of the key with the pliers, and then bend it back until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on an even surface or in a vice. Then, you can place it in the lock to see whether it turns.

If not, you could need to get a new one created. There is no need to call a locksmith and your existing key will function.

It's a good idea keep a spare in your pocket, so you don't find yourself without a way into your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.

If you're having difficulty inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying some lubricant 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 you're using a spray be sure to attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure an easier application. This will also help to prevent moisture from ruining your key.

Stuck pins and springs

Sometimes, a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring could 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 2 parts of a machine. In the majority of cases, you can take a nut off by pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.

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

If  remote key repair near me  need help with your automotive keys or locks, give us a call! We are able to repair or replace every vehicle key.

Selector for gears

If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, you need to bring it to an expert mechanic immediately. This is a safety concern and could lead to serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This could be a sign that your transmission is experiencing more serious issues, which can be costly to fix.

Most of the time this issue is easily fixable. The most common reason the gear selector could get stuck is that one of the cable ends has snapped off or become uncoupled from the lever itself. The mechanic can repair this within a couple of minutes.

In some instances, the bushing of the gear selector could be damaged or worn. Rubber covers are positioned around the articulation points of the gear system in order to keep it fluid. They work in a similar manner as cartilage in your knees, therefore it is important to ensure to keep them healthy and flexible.

You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few basic things. It is best to avoid the gear selection in extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables controlling the gear are prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace the bushings with premium quality ones, such as those from First Line.

These bushings are an essential element of your gear selector and should not be overlooked. If you notice that yours is wearing out, it's a great idea to go to an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They will help you locate the right parts to repair your gear selector apparatus. They can also provide a range of other services, including maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn your key in the ignition and hear nothing except a click, your battery is dead. Most batteries last between three and five years and as they get older, they go through natural processes that cause them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be coated with sulfate crystals.

A dead battery can also cause the loss of electrical power within your vehicle which can cause the radio or electric windows to malfunction. If your car is experiencing problems beginning in cold weather, this is a good sign that it is time for a new battery.

Sometimes your problem might not be caused by a dead battery, but a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. Your mechanic should ensure that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are working correctly can resolve this issue.

Another common repair for a key in the automotive is the key fob that isn't working properly. The key fob connects to your vehicle's computer and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system can get confused or cease communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed harsh temperatures or gets wet.

Follow the instructions in your owner's guide to reset the lost keyfob. Depending on the model of your car you may have to open and close the doors, turn lights and other electronic devices off and on by pressing a specific sequence of buttons, or shut and open the windows. If this does not fix your fob it may require professional programming, which requires the help of technicians. It's worth trying these simple techniques before buying an entirely new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys include an embedded transponder chip in them. It transmits a signal to a receiver within the ignition when they are inserted. The signal is sent to an immobilizer to determine whether the key is in the right place for the car to begin. In the 1990s, car theft was an issue. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system for security and insurance reasons.

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

Bring your existing working key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key in order to precisely duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using an exact cutting machine on site. If the key you are using has blade, fob, or a thick head that is grey or black it must be programmed for your car before you can start the motor.