Ignition Key Replacement

Whether it is a malfunctioning of your ignition switch or a case of lost car keys, read this article on ignition key replacement, which will give you some options to solve your problem.

The ignition key operates the ignition switch of any automotive engine. Without it, your car won't start and you simply cannot move. There are numerous reasons why you would need a replacement for this key. Malfunctioning of the lock cylinder, wear and tear of the ignition switch due to overuse, an attempted theft, or losing the car keys could be some of the common reasons. Although it is better to get it replaced from a proper mechanic, you could try it yourself as well. However, it is necessary that you have basic mechanical as well as car knowledge to carry out this task. Some instructions on ignition key replacement are given below.

List of Instructions

Requirements

Adjustable wrench
Small screwdriver
Replacement ignition key assembly

Step 1

Pick up your car hood and carefully disconnect the negative terminal on the car battery. You should always disconnect the car battery while working, as there is a possibility of you getting electrocuted. Unscrew the lower and upper steering columns.

Step 2

After you have disconnected the steering columns, you need to remove the steering wheel. For this, lift the center cover of the steering wheel and then unplug the horn wire and take out the washer and retaining nut as well. Carefully, pull the steering wheel out from its slot and keep it aside.

Step 3

Disconnect all the wiring connected to the turn signal and windshield wiper switch. Once this is done, take out the spacer sleeve from the steering wheel.

Step 4

Take out the mounting screws and carefully pull out the ignition switch from its position. Ensure that you disconnect the wiring and loosen the switch so that it comes off easily. Take this switch to a nearby auto supply store where you can purchase a new replacement switch.

Step 5

When you have the new switch assembly with you, insert it in the old cylinder itself. Properly arrange and secure contacts inside the cylinder and also arrange the entire assembly. Connect all the wires to the switch and screw it back in position. Also, re-attach the windshield wiper signal and turn signal to their respective positions.

Step 6

After completing the installation successfully in your car, connect the detached terminals to the battery. Attempt to start your car and if it starts, you have successfully replaced your ignition key. Also, check whether the turn signals and windshield wipers are functioning.

Replacing a Lost Key

Step 1

Figure out whether your car keys were regular ones or the coded ones. In case they were the former, you will need to locate a dealer in your area who is able to imprint the code on the new key. Car manufacturers came up with this type of key to reduce car thefts.

Step 2

Find a locksmith in your locality who is specifically works on auto keys and preferably has had some experience in the same. If you are having trouble locating a locksmith, refer to the internet or yellow pages.

Step 3

Call the locksmith and ask him for a replacement. He will need a few hours to check the keys he has in stock for your car or to create a key depending on the size and shape of your original car key.

Step 4

Once you have the new key with you, check it on your car by inserting it into the ignition slot. If the car starts immediately, there is no problem. But if it does not, then you need to take the car key to your dealer, as it may require some programming.

These were the replacement procedures that you can follow. The other option is getting the key replaced from the dealer itself rather than going to a locksmith. It will definitely take more time at the dealer's place, and you will have to do without your car for a few days too. In case you are taking your car to the dealer for getting a new ignition key, remember to carry a proof of vehicle ownership with you.

Motor Oil Types

 

The basic job of engine oil is to prevent all metal surfaces in the car engine from laboring together and thus tearing apart due to friction. The oil should also be potent enough to resist all by-products of combustion. All chemicals and acids collected in the engine are cleared by the engine oil, and it also ensures all parts of the engine are covered in oil. It also reduces oxidation at high temperatures. All these tasks are performed under extremely high temperatures and pressure levels. The difference in all the types of motor oils is based on the way it is obtained, or on the conditions it is best suited for, as explained below.

Basic Types of Motor Oil

Conventional Motor Oil
This is the least expensive of all three types. Conventional motor oil is mainly a byproduct produced during the crude oil refinement process. Since this oil does not have a complicated make-up process, it is liable for faster deterioration, when subjected to extreme heat. Conventional motor oil emits higher amounts of sulfur and other pollutants as well.

Synthetic Motor Oil
This is the most expensive of all three types of motor oils. Synthetic motor oil costs more as it is expensive to produce. It is developed from polyalphaolefins, a chemical compound. The total structure of synthetic oils is unique and hence it is considered to be cleaner and stable than conventional oil. Also, this oil can maintain its flow under almost all conditions regardless of the heat and pressure.

Synthetic Blends
This oil combines properties of both synthetic as well as conventional motor oils. The idea behind synthetic blend oil is to combine the price of conventional oil with benefits of synthetic oil. Synthetic blend oils are a more refined version of conventional oils, which burn better and also stay stable at high temperatures.

Different Motor Oils According to Gradation

Motor oils have been graded according to their viscosity properties by the Society of Automotive Engineers. The numerical code contains numbers followed by the letter W, like 0W, 15W and 25W. Viscosity is gauged by measuring the time taken by the oil to travel through a standard opening at normal temperatures. The more time the oil takes to travel, the higher is its viscosity, and consequently a higher grade. Depending on the grade, the various types of motor oil are explained below.

Single Grade
There are 11 grades of this type―0W, 5W, 10W, 15W, 20W, 25W, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60. Note that 'W' in these grades refers to 'winter'. Of these 11 grades, 6 of them are winter graded or a cold viscosity grade, indicating that these oils are to be used at lower temperatures. The ones without a 'W' can be used at higher temperatures, as they are hot viscosity grades. Single grade motor oil is useful in places where the temperature remains mostly constant throughout and there are not many variations between hot and cold temperatures.

Multi-Grade
The oil in most vehicles is subject to wide temperature ranges. This makes it essential to have a motor oil which does not have a fixed viscosity according to the temperature and can adjust to changes. For this purpose, certain special polymer additives are added to single grade oils to create multi-grade oil. This is the reason multi-grade oils have two viscosity grades, one each for cold and hot temperatures. For example, an oil coded as 20W-40 passes standards for both, 20W and 40 conditions.

Motor Oil Recommendations

All vehicle manufacturers state the kind of motor oil to be used in vehicles according to what they feel is most suited for the engines. However, a few recommendations for motor oils according to the viscosity and climatic conditions are given below:

10W-30: This is the best engine oil for constant driving, and lasts better over longer periods of time.
5W-30: This oil is used in most new cars and is very useful for starting the car in cold conditions.
10W: Works best for driving in cold weather conditions

Since synthetic oil is very expensive, not many people use them. However, for anyone who wants high performance and best protection for the engine, this is the best option among all the types of motor oil available.