Blog entry by Dale Wellman

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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 could occur at the worst moment, for instance, when you're filling your car with groceries or driving home from work.

Instead of panicking instead, there are a variety of options to get you back on the road. Here are some common automotive key repair problems and solutions for them:

Broken or bent key

A bent remote key repairs is the most frequent reason a car key fob repairs owner can't start their vehicle key repairs. It can be repaired by simply straightening the key. This may seem simple however, you need to be careful. The key is extremely thin and may break if you bend it even a little.

To do this, you'll require a stable workspace, and 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. Then, you can put it in the lock to see if it will turn.

If not, it could be time to get a new key cut. You don't need to call a lock-smith and your key will function.

Keep an extra key in your pocket so you're not without access to your vehicle if yours is damaged.

If you have trouble inserting a broken or bent lock key, try applying some oil to it. This will allow it to move through the cylinder and also prevent it from becoming stuck. You can apply graphite or spray lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray to ensure an even more precise application. This will also help to stop moisture from ruining your key.

Spring pins and springs with pins

A pin (also known as a roll pin or a 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 with hollow ends. It is used to connect two pieces of machines. In the majority of instances, it is possible to remove pins by simply pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.

If you have a newer vehicle that is equipped with an electronic mobile key fob repair with a microchip in it, there's an opportunity for the key to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This procedure can be easy or difficult depending on the manufacturer and car.

If you require assistance with your keys for your vehicle or locks, give us call! We can repair or replace any vehicle key.

Gear Selector

It is essential to take your vehicle to a mechanic as fast as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. This is a security issue and could result in serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This could also be a sign that the transmission is experiencing more serious problems that are expensive to repair.

Most of the time this issue is easily fixable. The most common reason that the gear selector can get stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped, or become uncoupled from the lever itself. This is a simple fix, and a mechanic will usually complete the task within a few minutes.

In some instances, the bushings on the gear selector might be damaged or worn. These are rubber coverings that cover articulation points in the gear system, allowing it shift more easily. These rubber covers function similarly to the cartilage that you have in your joints, which is why they require to be healthy and flexible.

You can extend their life by doing a few simple things. First, you should avoid using the gear selector in very cold weather. The cables for controlling the gear can freeze and break. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, like those made by First Line, with high-quality ones.

These bushings form an essential component of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you find that yours is damaged it is best to visit an auto repair shop specializing in Land Rover repairs. They will help you locate the right parts to restore your gear selector device. They can also offer a range of other services, including maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn the ignition key and hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through natural processes that cause them to die early. This is due to the negative plates in the battery of your car will begin to become coated with sulfate crystals.

A dead battery can cause your car to lose electrical power, which can cause the radio to stop working or electric window not working properly. If your car is experiencing problems getting started in cold weather, this could be an indication that it's time to get an upgrade to your battery.

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

Key fobs that are not functioning properly is another common issue with automotive keys. The key fob is a small unit that connects to the computer in the vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and accessory systems. This system can be confused or stop communicating if it is wet or is exposed to extreme temperatures.

It is possible to reset a lost key fob by following the steps in the owner's manual. Depending on the type of vehicle, this will involve opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronics on and off, or pressing a specific sequence of buttons. If this doesn't solve your device, it could need to professionally programmed that will require the assistance of a technician. Try these easy techniques before purchasing the new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys are fitted with a transponder that when it is inserted into the ignition, transmits a signal. This signal tells the immobilizer inside the car if the key is the right one to be used for starting. In the 1990s, car theft became a major problem. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system due where to repair car key remote safety and insurance reasons.

If you have a newer vehicle, the only way to replace your keys could be at the dealership or by calling the manufacturer directly. Before you go make a note of the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number can be found on the dashboard, in the door jamb or in the owner's guide.

Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will make use of a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key to precisely duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with an exact cutting machine in-store. If your key is equipped with an edge, a fob or a thick head that is grey or black it will need to be programmed for your vehicle before you can start the motor.g28-car-keys-logo-white-green.png