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 car key repair shop near me with groceries or on your way home from work.

There are many different solutions that will help you get back on your way. Here are some common automotive key repair problems and possible solutions:

Broken or bent key

The most common reason a car owner cannot start their car is a bent key. This can be repaired by simply straightening the key. It may appear simple but be cautious. The key is very thin and bending it just a little can cause it to break.

You'll need a solid work surface and a pair of pliers to do this. Pick up one end of the key with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. This should be done on a flat surface or in a vise. Then, you can place it in the lock to test whether it turns.

If not, you could need to have a new one created. You will not need to call a locksmith and your existing key will function.

Keep an extra key in your purse so you're not left without a way to enter your vehicle in the event that your key is damaged.

If you're having issues with a broken or bent key, you can try applying grease on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will make it easier to move through the cylinder, and repair car keys near me will prevent it from getting stuck. Spray graphite or lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube that comes with the spray for an even more precise application. This will also help keep moisture from damaging your key.

Pins that are snuck or springs

Sometimes a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring could get stuck. Pins are a small 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 a machine. In the majority of instances, it is possible to remove pins by pulling it out using your fingers or a wrench.

If you have an older car that is equipped with a microchip key it is likely that the key needs to be programmed in order to work with your vehicle. This procedure can differ based on the manufacturer and car.

Contact us if you require assistance with your car locks or keys! We are able to repair or replace every key repair service for your vehicle.

Gear selector

If your car's gear selector gets stuck in park mode, it's important to take it to an expert mechanic immediately. This is a safety issue and could result in serious damage to your vehicle if you continue driving. This could also be a sign that your transmission system is having bigger problems that are expensive to repair.

Most times, this problem is easily fixable. Most of the time, the cable end that is connected to the lever may snap or break off. The mechanic can repair this issue in a matter of minutes.

In certain instances, the bushings on the gear selector may be damaged or worn. These are rubber covers that go around articulation points in the gear system to help it move more easily. They work in a similar manner to cartilage in your knees so it's crucial that they remain healthy and supple.

It is not uncommon for them to wear out over time, but there are some things you can do to prolong their life. First, you should avoid using the gear selector in extremely cold temperatures. The gear control cables can freeze and crack. You should also replace your bushings, for instance the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.

These bushings are a critical part of your selection of gears and shouldn't be ignored. If you notice yours is damaged you must visit an auto repair shop specializing in Land Rover repairs. They can assist you to find the perfect parts to restore your gear selector apparatus. They can also provide many other services, such as maintenance and repair of your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn the ignition key but hear nothing but a click then your battery is dead. The average battery lasts between three and five years, and as they age they go through natural processes that cause them to end up dying early. This is due to the negative plates inside your car battery will start to be coated with crystals of sulfate.

A dead battery can also cause you to lose the electrical power in your vehicle, causing the radio or the electric windows to malfunction. If you've had difficulties starting your car in cold weather, this could be a sign you require an upgrade to your battery.

It is possible that your problem is not a dead battery but a malfunction in the charging system. A mechanic's check to ensure that the serpentine belt, alternator and battery cables are working correctly can resolve this problem.

Another common automotive key repair is a key fob that isn't working properly. The key fob is a small device that connects to your computer in your vehicle and relays signals and commands 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 is wet.

It is possible to reset the lost key fob by following the instructions provided in the owner's guide. Depending on the vehicle it will require opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronic devices 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 technicians. Try these easy techniques before buying an entirely new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys include an embedded transponder chip in them. It transmits an electronic signal to a receiver in the ignition when they are inserted. The signal informs the immobilizer on the car if the key is the right one to be used for starting. In the 1990s, theft of vehicles became such a problem that most manufacturers put this transponder security system into their vehicles to ensure safety and insurance purposes.

If you own a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your keys is to go to the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go make a note of the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). You can find this number on the dashboard, the door jamb, or in the owner's manual.

Bring your current working key along to a participating AutoZone store and an associate will utilize an instrument to trace the contours of your key blank to accurately duplicate the original key fob repair near me. The new key will be cut on site using a precision cutting machine. If the key you have is a blade style or a key fob or has a hefty black or grey head, it'll require programming to your specific car before it can be used to start the engine.