Automotive Key Repair - What to Do When Your Car Key Won't Turn in the Ignition

We've all experienced this when the car's key doesn't turn in the ignition. It occurs at the most inconvenient moments, like when you're filling your trunk with groceries, or on your way to home from work.

There are many different solutions that can bring you back on the way. Here are some common automotive key repair problems and possible solutions:

Broken or bent keys

A bent key is the most frequent reason why a car owner is unable to start their vehicle. Straightening the key is a simple fix. This may sound simple but it's important to do it with care. The key is very thin and can break if you bend it even slightly.

You will need a stable work surface as well as a pair of pliers for this. Hold the key at one end with the pliers, and bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on an even surface or in a vice. You can then put it into the lock to see if it changes.

If not, you may require a new one made. 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 have an entry point into your vehicle in the event of a damaged key.

If you are having trouble inserting a bent or broken lock key, try applying grease to it. This will allow it move more easily through the cylinder and stop it from becoming stuck. It is possible to use a spray graphite or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray to ensure the most precise application. This will also help stop moisture from ruining your key.

Stuck pins and springs

A pin (also known as a roll pin, or a spring) can sometimes get stuck. Pins are a tiny piece of steel 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 a machine. In most cases, you can remove a pin by simply pulling it out with your fingers or a wrench.

If you have a newer car that has an electronic key fob repair near me with a microchip in it, there's an opportunity that the key has to be programmed to work with your car. This process can vary depending on the model of car and the manufacturer.

Contact us for assistance with your automotive locks or keys! We are able to repair or replace every key for your vehicle.

Selector for gears

If your car's gear selector becomes stuck in park mode, you need to bring it to a mechanic as soon as you notice it. It's a safety issue and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This could also be a sign that your transmission system is experiencing bigger issues, which can be costly to repair.

Most times this issue is easily fixable. The most frequent reason the gear selector can get stuck is because one of the cable ends has snapped 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. These are rubber covers that go around articulation points within the gear system to help it shift more easily. They work in a similar manner to cartilage in your knees so it's crucial that they stay in good shape and soft.

It's not uncommon for them to wear out over time, however there are some things you can do to extend their life. The first is to avoid using the gear selector during extremely cold weather. This is because the cables that control the gear are prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace your bushings, such as those made by First Line, with high-quality ones.

These bushings form an essential part of your selection of gears and shouldn't be ignored. If you find that yours is wearing out, it's a good idea to go to an auto shop that specializes in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you in finding the correct parts to repair your gear selection apparatus. They also provide various other services, including maintenance and repair of your transmission.

Dead battery

If you switch the key in the ignition but hear nothing but a click then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo a natural process which causes them to die early. The negative plates of your car battery will start to be covered with sulfate crystalline deposits.

A dead battery could cause your car to lose power, which can result in the radio or electric window malfunctioning. If your car is having issues getting started in cold weather, it is an indication that it's time to get a new battery.

Sometimes, your issue might not be caused by a dead battery, but rather a malfunction within the charging system of your vehicle. This issue can be fixed by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables all work properly.

Another common automotive key repair is an ignition key that has stopped working properly. The key fob is connected to your vehicle's computer and relays signals as well as commands between the engine and the accessory systems. This system can get confused or cease communicating with your car when it is exposed harsh temperatures or gets wet.

Follow the directions in the owner's guide to reset the keyfob that was lost. Based on the model it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronics on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If this does not fix your fob it may require professional programming that will require the assistance of technicians. It's worth trying these simple techniques before buying a new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys have a transponder chip built into them that sends an electronic signal to a receiver in the ignition when they are inserted. The signal informs an immobilizer that the key is right for the car to start. In the 1990s, car theft was a major problem. Most manufacturers installed this transponder system due to security and insurance reasons.

If you have a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your keys could be at the dealership or by contacting the manufacturer directly. Write down the VIN (vehicle ID number) of your car prior to you leave. It is located on the front of the dashboard, door jamb, or in your owner's manual.

Bring your current key to an AutoZone participating store. A representative will use a machine that will trace the contours of the blank key in order to precisely replicate the original key. They will then cut the new key with an exact cutting machine in-store. If your key is equipped with a blade, a fob or a large head that is grey or black it must be programmed for your vehicle before you can start the motor.