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 times, like when you're filling up your trunk with groceries, or on your way to home from work.

There are a variety of solutions to get you back on your way. Here are some common key issues in the automotive industry and their solutions:

Broken or bent key

A bent key is the most frequent reason a car owner can't start their car. Straightening the key is an easy fix. This may seem simple, but you must be cautious. The key is extremely thin and could break if you bend it even a little.

You'll need a sturdy work surface and a pair pliers for this. Grab the key at the other end using the pliers, and bend it until it is straight. This should be done on a flat surface, or in a vise. After that, you can place it in the lock to test whether it will turn.

If not, it may be time to have a new key cut. You don't need to call a locksmith and your existing key will function.

It's a good idea keep a spare key in your pocket so that you don't find yourself without a way into your vehicle in the event of a broken key repair key.

If you're experiencing problems with a broken or bent key, you can try applying lubrication on it before trying to insert it into the lock. This will allow it to move through the cylinder and prevent it from becoming stuck. You can use graphite as a spray lubricant. If you are using a spray, ensure you attach the plastic tubing that came with it to ensure more precise application. This will also stop water from destroying your device.

Spring pins and springs with pins

A pin (also called a roll pin or a spring) may become stuck. Pins are a tiny 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends, which are used to connect two components of machines. In the majority of cases, you can remove a nut by pulling it out using your fingers or using a wrench.

If you have a newer car that uses an electronic key with a microchip in it, there is an opportunity for the key to be programmed to work with your car. This process is different based on the model of car and the manufacturer.

Call us if you need assistance with your automotive keys or locks! We can repair, replace or program nearly any key for your vehicle.

Selector for gears

If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, you need to bring it to a mechanic right away. This is a safety issue and could lead to serious vehicle damage if you continue driving. This could also be a sign that your transmission system is having bigger issues, which can be costly to repair.

Most times the issue is fixable. The most common reason that the gear selector could be stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped off or disconnected from the lever itself. The mechanic can fix this in a few minutes.

In some cases the bushings on the gear selector might be damaged or worn. The rubber covers are put around the articulation points of the gear system in order to make it more fluid. These rubber covers function similarly to cartilage joints, which is why they need to be healthy and flexible.

It's not uncommon for them to degrade over time, however there are a few things you can do to extend their lifespan. You should first avoid using the gear selection during extremely cold weather. This is because the cables controlling the gear tend to freeze and cracking. You should also replace your bushings, like ones made by First Line, with high-quality ones.

These bushings are an essential part of your gear selector, and should not be ignored. If you find that yours is worn out, it's a great idea to go to an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the right parts to restore your gear selection apparatus. They can also provide you with a range of other services, like maintenance and repair of your transmission.

Dead battery

If you switch the ignition on but 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 go through a 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 electrical power in your vehicle, causing the radio or the electric windows to malfunction. If you've had trouble starting your car in cold weather this could be a sign you need an upgrade to your battery.

It's possible that the issue is not due to an unresponsive battery but a malfunction in the charging system. A mechanic's check to make sure that the alternator, serpentine belt, and battery cables are functioning properly can solve this issue.

Another type of key repair for automotive vehicles is an ignition key that isn't working properly. The Remote Key fob repair near me fob connects to the computer in your vehicle and relays signals as well as commands between the engine and accessory systems. This system may be confused or stop communicating if it is submerged or is exposed to extreme temperatures.

Follow the directions in your owner's guide to reset the lost keyfob. Depending on the vehicle it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning off lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If this does not fix your device, it could need to professionally programmed that will require the assistance of a technician. However, it's still worthwhile to try these easy steps before deciding to pay for a new one.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys repair near me have a transponder chip embedded in them that sends a signal to a receiver inside the ignition when it is inserted. The signal informs the immobilizer in the car if the key is the right one for it to start. In the 1990s, car theft was an issue. Many manufacturers put in this transponder system for safety and insurance reasons.

If you own a brand new vehicle, the only option to change your keys is to visit the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number can be found on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in an owner's guide.

Bring your current working key along to an participating AutoZone store and an associate will utilize an instrument to trace the contours of your blank key to accurately replicate the original key. The new key will be cut on-site by a cutting machine that is precise. If your key is a blade type or key fob key repair or has a large black or grey head, it will have to be programmed to the specific car you own before it can be used to start the engine.