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

We've all had this experience - the car key won't engage in the ignition. It could happen at the worst possible moment, for instance, when you are loading your trunk with groceries or returning home from work.

There are many different solutions that will get you back on your way. Here are a few of the most common car key repair issues and solutions for them:

Broken or bent key

The most common reason a car owner cannot begin their vehicle is a bent key. Straightening the key is an easy fix. This may sound simple however it is crucial to do it with care. The key is extremely thin and could break if bent even a little.

You will need a stable work surface as well as a pair of pliers to do this. Grab the key at one end with the pliers, then bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on the floor or in a vice. Then, you can put it inside the lock to see if it changes.

If not, you could require a new key made. This will avoid having to call a locksmith and will ensure that your key will function.

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

If you're experiencing problems with a broken or bent key, try applying some lubrication on it before inserting it into the lock. This will enable it move more easily through the cylinder and prevent it from getting stuck. You can use graphite as a spray lubricant. Use the plastic tube that comes with the spray for a more precise application. This will also stop moisture from damaging your key.

Stuck pins and springs

Sometimes, a pin (also known as a roll pin) or spring can get stuck. A pin is a small piece of metal that is between 5.1 and 7.6 cm (2.5-3.0 in) long and has hollow ends. It is used to connect two pieces of an equipment. In the majority of cases, you can remove a pin by simply pulling it out with your fingers or Automotive Key Repair a wrench.

If you own an older car that uses microchip keys, it is possible that the key will need to be programmed in order to work with your car. This process can be simple or complicated depending on the car's model and manufacturer.

If you need assistance with your car keys or locks, give us a call! We can repair, replace or program virtually any car key.

Gear selector

It's important to get your car to a mechanic as quickly as you can when the gear selector is stuck in park. It's a security issue and you could cause serious damage to your vehicle if continue to drive it. This issue can also be a sign of more serious issues in the transmission system that could be costly to repair.

Most times, this problem is easily fixable. The cable that is connected to the lever could snap or become disconnected. This is a simple fix and the mechanic can usually make it within a few minutes.

In certain instances, the bushings of the gear selector may be damaged or worn. Rubber covers are positioned around the points of articulation of the gear system to keep it fluid. These covers work similarly to cartilage joints, so they must be flexible and healthy.

You can extend the life of your gear selector by doing a few simple things. You should avoid the gear selection during extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables that control the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. You should also replace the bushings using premium quality ones, like those from First Line.

These bushings form an essential component of your gear selector and should not be ignored. If you notice that yours is worn out, you should visit an auto repair shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. They will help you find the correct parts to repair the gear selection system. They can also provide many other services, like transmission service and maintenance.

Dead battery

If you turn the ignition on and hear nothing but a click, then your battery is dead. As batteries age, they go through an natural process that causes them to die early. This is due to the negative plates in your car battery will start to become coated with crystals of sulfate.

A dead battery may also cause your car to lose electrical power, which can cause the radio to stop working or electric window not working properly. If you've been having trouble starting your car in cold weather this could be a sign you need a new battery.

Sometimes, the issue may not be due to a dead battery, but a problem with the charging system of your vehicle. This problem can be resolved by having a mechanic examine that the alternator, serpentine belt and battery cables are all functioning properly.

Another common repair for a key in the automotive key repair is an ignition key that isn't working properly. The key fob connects to the computer in your car and relays signals as well as commands between the engine and accessory systems. The system may become confused or cease communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed harsh temperatures or gets wet.

It is usually possible to reset the lost key fob following the instructions provided in the owner's manual. Based on the model it could involve opening and closing the doors, turning lights and other electronic devices on and off by pressing a particular sequence of buttons. If this does not fix your fob it may require professional programming, automotive key repair which requires the help of an expert. But it's still worth attempting these steps before you decide to pay for a new one.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys include a transponder chip embedded in them. It transmits a signal to a receiver within the ignition when they are inserted. The signal informs an immobilizer whether the key is in the right place for the car to start. In the 1990s, theft of vehicles became such a problem that most manufacturers installed this transponder security system in their vehicles to ensure safety and insurance reasons.

If you have a newer vehicle, the only option to replace your keys is to go to the dealership or directly with the manufacturer. Before you go note down the VIN number of your vehicle (vehicle identification number). This number is usually found on the dashboard, in the door jamb, or in an owner's guide.

Bring your current working key to an participating AutoZone store and an associate will employ machines to trace the contours of your blank key to accurately duplicate the original key. They will then cut the new key using an exact cutting machine on site. If your key is a blade-style or a key fob or has a thick black or grey head on it, it'll require programming to the specific car you own before it can be used to start the engine.