15 Reasons To Love Automotive Key Repair

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, like when you're filling your trunk with groceries, or returning home from work.
Rather than panic instead, there are a variety of solutions to get you back on the road. Here are a few common car key repair issues and possible solutions:
Broken or bent keys
The most frequent reason an owner of a car cannot start their vehicle is a bent key. This can be easily repaired by simply straightening the key. It might sound easy, but it is important to do this carefully. The key is extremely thin and can break if you bend it even a little.
To accomplish this, you will need an area that is stable, as well as a pair of pliers. Hold the key at one end with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is best to do this on the floor or in a vice. You can then place it in the lock to see if it turns.
If not, you might need to have a new one created. You will not need to call a locksmith and your key will still function.
Keep a spare key in your purse so you don't have the ability to get into your vehicle if yours breaks.
If you're experiencing problems with a bent or broken key, try putting some lubrication on it before inserting it into the lock. This will allow it to move through the cylinder, and prevent it from becoming stuck. It is possible to use a spray graphite powder or lubricant. If you are using a spray, be sure to attach the plastic tubing included with it for 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 may get stuck. Pins are a tiny piece of metal 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 an equipment. In most instances, you can take out pins by pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.
If you have an older car that uses microchip keys, it is possible that the key will need to be programmed to work with your car. This process can be simple or complicated depending on the car's model and manufacturer.
Contact us if you require assistance with your vehicle keys or locks! We can repair, replace or program nearly any key for your vehicle.
Selector for gears
It's important to get your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as you can if the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a safety concern and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This could be a sign that the transmission system is experiencing bigger problems, which are costly to repair.
Luckily, most times, this issue is easily fixable. The cable end that is connected to the lever could snap or become disconnected. This is a simple fix and the mechanic can usually fix it within a few minutes.
In certain instances, the bushings on the gear selector may be damaged or worn. Rubber covers are placed around the articulation points of the gear system to make it more fluid. They work in a similar manner as cartilage in your knees therefore it is important to ensure that they stay in good shape and soft.
It is not uncommon for them to wear out over time, but there are a few things you can do to extend their life. It is best to avoid the gear selection in very cold weather. The gear control cables can freeze and break. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, for instance those made by First Line, with high-quality ones.
These bushings are a critical component of your selection of gears and shouldn't be overlooked. If you notice yours is worn out it is best to visit an auto repair shop specializing in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help find the right parts to restore your gear selection apparatus. key fob repairs can also provide you with many other services, like transmission service and maintenance.
Dead battery
If you turn the ignition key and you hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. The average battery lasts between three and five years, and as they age, they undergo an natural process that causes them to end up dying early. This is due to the negative plates of the battery of your car will begin to become coated with crystals of sulfate.
A dead battery may also cause your car to lose power, which can lead to the radio or electric window not working properly. If you have been having difficulties starting your car in cold weather this could be a sign that you require a new battery.
It is possible that your issue is not due to a dead battery but a malfunction in the charging system. Having your mechanic check to ensure that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are all functioning properly can solve this issue.
Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is an ignition key that has stopped working properly. The key fob is a tiny device that connects to your vehicle's computer and relays commands and signals between the engine and accessory systems. The system could become confused or cease communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed to extreme temperatures or gets wet.
Follow the instructions in the owner's guide to reset the keyfob that was lost. Based on the vehicle you have you may have to open and close the doors, switch lights and other electronic devices on and off, press a certain sequence of buttons, or even close and open the windows. If this doesn't fix your fob, it might need to be professionally programmed and will require an expert technician. However, it's still worth trying these simple steps before you decide to pay for a new device.
Ignition socket
Modern car keys come with a transponder chip embedded in them. It transmits an electronic signal to a receiver within the ignition when inserted. This signal informs the immobilizer in the car if the key is the right one to allow it to start. In the 1990s theft of vehicles became a problem that most manufacturers fitted this transponder security device in their vehicles to ensure safety and insurance reasons.
If you have a brand newer car, the only way to replace your key could be through a dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Before you visit, write down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number can be found on the dashboard, the door jamb, or in the owner's manual.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. A staff member will use a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key in order to accurately duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using an exact cutting machine in-store. If your key is blade-style or key fob or has a thick grey or black head on it, it'll need to be programmed to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.