15 Up-And-Coming Automotive Key Repair Bloggers You Need To Keep An Eye On
Automotive Key Repair – What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition We've all been there – your car keys won't turn in the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient moments, like when you're loading your car with groceries or when you're returning to home from work. There are many different solutions that can help you get back on your way. Here are some common automotive key problems and their solutions: Broken or bent keys The most common reason why an owner of a car cannot begin their vehicle is a bent key. This can be repaired by simply bending the key. This may sound simple however it is crucial to do it with care. The key is very thin and even bending it small enough could cause it to break. You will need a stable work surface as well as a pair of pliers to accomplish this. Take the key at the other end using the pliers and bend it until it is straight. This can be done on a flat surface, or in a vise. Then, you can put it in the lock to test whether it will turn. If not, it could be time to get a new key cut. There is no need to call a locksmith and your existing key will work. It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your pocket, so you don't end up without a way into your vehicle in the event of a broken key. If you are having trouble inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying oil 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 that comes with the spray for the most precise application. This will also help stop moisture from ruining your key. Pins that are snuck or springs A pin (also called a roll pin or a spring) can sometimes become stuck. Pins are 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 instances, you can take out pins by pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench. If you have an older vehicle that has a microchip key it is possible that the key will need to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This can be a simple or difficult depending on the manufacturer and car. If you need assistance with your car keys or locks give us a call! We can repair, replace or program virtually any car key. Gear Selector It's crucial to take your vehicle to a mechanic as fast as you can when the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety issue and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This issue is also a sign of more serious issues in the transmission system itself, which could be costly to repair. Most of the time, this problem is easily fixable. Most of the time, the cable that is connected to the lever can snap or come uncoupled. The mechanic can repair this in a few minutes. In some instances the gear selector bushing can become damaged or worn out. The rubber covers are put around the points of articulation of the gear system to make it more fluid. These covers function similar to the cartilage in your joints, which is why they must be healthy and flexible. You can prolong their lifespan by doing a few easy things. It is best to avoid the gear selection in very cold weather. This is because the cables that control the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace the bushings with high quality ones, such as the ones from First Line. These bushings form an important part of your gear selector and should not go unnoticed. If you find that yours is worn out, you should visit an auto repair shop that specializes Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the perfect parts to repair the gear selector mechanism. They can also offer many other services, including maintenance and repair of your transmission. Dead battery If you switch the ignition on and you hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. The majority of batteries last between three and five years, and as they age they undergo a natural process that causes them to end up dying prematurely. This is because the negative plates inside your car battery will start to become coated by sulfate crystals. A dead battery may also cause your vehicle to lose electrical power, which could result in the radio or electric window not working properly. If your car is having issues getting started in cold weather, this is an indication that it is time for a new battery. It's possible that the issue is not due to an unresponsive battery but an issue with the charging system. Having your mechanic check to make sure that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are functioning properly can solve this problem. Another common automotive key repair is an ignition key that has stopped working properly. The key fob is connected to your vehicle's computer, and relays signals and commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system may be confused or cease communicating if it gets wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures. Follow car remote key repair in the owner's guide to reset the lost keyfob. Depending on your vehicle, you may need to open and close the doors, turn lights and other electronic devices off and on and press a particular sequence of buttons, or even shut and open the windows. If this doesn't fix your fob, it may need to be professionally programmed by an expert technician. But it's still worth trying these simple steps before you decide to pay for a new one. Ignition socket Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder, which when it is inserted into the ignition, transmits the signal. The signal informs the immobilizer inside the car if the key is the correct one for it to start. In the 1990s theft of cars became such an issue that many manufacturers put this transponder security device in their vehicles to ensure safety and insurance purposes. If you own a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your key may be through the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car before you go. This number is usually 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 staff member 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 your key has a blade, a fob or a large head that is grey or black it will need to be programmed for your vehicle before you can start the motor.