You've Forgotten Automotive Key Repair: 10 Reasons Why You Do Not Need It
car key fob repairs – What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition We've all been there: your car key refuses to turn on the ignition. It could occur at the most inconvenient moment, like when you're filling your car with groceries or returning home from work. There are a variety of solutions that can bring you back on the way. Here are some common automotive key repair problems and possible solutions: Broken or bent key The most common reason why an owner of a car cannot start their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is a simple fix. It may appear simple however, you need to be careful. The key is very thin and could break if bent even slightly. To do this, you'll require an area with a solid foundation, as well as a pair of pliers. Grab one end of the key using the pliers, and then bend it back until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on the floor or in a vice. Then, you can place it in the lock to see whether it turns. If not, it might be time to have a new key cut. You will not need to call a lock-smith and your existing key will work. It's a good idea to keep a spare key in your pocket, so that you don't find yourself without access to your vehicle in the event of a broken key. If you have trouble inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying lubricant to it. This will allow it to move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite or spray lubricant. If using a spray, be sure to attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure an easier application. This will also help stop moisture from ruining your key. Stuck pins or springs Sometimes, a pin (also called a roll pin) or spring can become stuck. Pins are a tiny 2 to 3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of steel with hollow ends that are used to connect two components of machines. In most cases, you can remove a pin by simply pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench. If you have an older car that is equipped with microchip keys, it is possible that the key will need to be programmed in order to work with your car. This procedure can be easy or complicated depending on the manufacturer and car. If you need help with your keys for your vehicle or locks, give us call! We can repair, replace or programme almost any vehicle key. Gear Selector It's important to get your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as you can when the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a security issue and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This could be a sign that your transmission system is having bigger problems, which are costly to fix. Fortunately, the majority times, this issue can be fixed easily. Most of the time, the cable that is connected to the lever could snap or come uncoupled. This is a simple fix and a mechanic should be able to make it within a few minutes. In certain instances, however, the gear selector bushing could be damaged or worn out. These are rubber covers that go around joints within the gear system to aid in making it shift more easily. They perform the same function as cartilage in your knees, therefore it is important to ensure that they stay healthy and supple. It is not uncommon for them to degrade in time, but there are a few things you can do to extend their life. You should first avoid using the gear selection during extremely cold temperatures. This is because the gear control cables tend to freeze and cracking. It is recommended to replace the bushings with high quality ones, like the ones from First Line. These bushings are a critical component of your selection of gears and shouldn't be ignored. If you notice yours is damaged it is best to visit an auto repair shop specializing in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the perfect parts to fix your gear selector apparatus. They also offer various other services such as maintenance and service for your transmission. Dead battery If you turn your key in the ignition but you don't hear anything other than a click, your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo an natural process that causes them to die prematurely. The negative plates of your car battery will begin to be covered with sulfate crystalline deposits. A dead battery may cause you to lose the power source in your car which can cause the radio or the electric windows to malfunction. If your car is having issues getting started in cold weather, this is a good sign that it's time for a new battery. Sometimes, your issue might not be a dead battery, but rather a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. Your mechanic should make sure that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are all working correctly can resolve this issue. Another common automotive key repair is a key fob that isn't 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 can get confused or cease communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed to extreme temperatures or gets wet. You can usually reset the lost key fob following the instructions provided in the owner's guide. Based on the model it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronics on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix your fob it may require professional programming, that will require the assistance of technicians. However, it's still worthwhile to try these easy steps before you decide to shell out for a new one. Ignition socket Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder that, when inserted into the ignition, transmits the signal. The signal is sent to an immobilizer to determine whether the key is in the right place to allow the car to start. In the 1990s, theft of vehicles became a problem that most manufacturers fitted this transponder security device in their vehicles for safety and insurance purposes. If you have a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your keys is at the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Note down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your vehicle before you leave. This number is usually found on the front of the dashboard or door jamb in your owner's manual. Bring your current working key to an AutoZone store and an associate will employ a machine to trace the contours of your key blank to accurately replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using an exact cutting machine in-store. If your key is a blade-style or a key fob or has a large black or grey head, it'll need to be programmed to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.