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 on the ignition. It could occur at the most inconvenient moment, like when you are loading your car with groceries or heading home from work.

There are many solutions that can bring you back on the way. Here are a few common key issues with cars and solutions:

Broken or bent keys

A bent key is the most common reason why car owners are unable to start their vehicle. Straightening the key is a simple fix. This may sound simple, but it is important to do this carefully. The key is extremely thin and may break if you bend it even a little.

To accomplish this, you'll need an area with a solid foundation, as well as a pair of pliers. Pick up one end of the key with the pliers and bend it until it is straight. It is recommended to do this on an even surface or in a vice. Then, you can place it in the lock to test if it will turn.

If not, it may be time to have a new key cut. There is no have to contact a locksmith and your existing key will work.

It's a good idea keep a spare in your pocket so that you don't end up without access to your vehicle in the event of a lost key.

If you're experiencing problems with a bent or broken key, try applying some grease on it prior to trying to insert it into the lock. This will enable it move through the cylinder, and also prevent it from becoming stuck. Spray graphite powder or automotive key Repair lubricant. Make use of the plastic tube which comes with the spray to ensure an even more precise application. This will also help to stop moisture from ruining your key.

Stuck pins and springs

A pin (also known as a roll pin, or a spring) can become stuck. Pins are a tiny 2 to 3 inches (5.1-7.6 cm) long piece of metal with hollow ends used to connect two components of machines. In the majority of instances, you can take out a pin by simply pulling it out with your fingers or using a wrench.

If you have an older vehicle that has a microchip key it is likely that the key needs to be programmed to work with your vehicle. This process can vary depending on the car and manufacturer.

If you need help with your keys for your vehicle or locks give us a call! We can repair, replace, or program nearly any key for your vehicle.

Gear Selector

If your car's gear selection gets stuck in park mode, you need to take it to a mechanic right away. It's a security issue and could cause serious damage to your vehicle if you continue to drive it. This issue could also indicate larger issues in the transmission system itself, which can be costly to repair.

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

In some instances the gear selector bushing may get damaged or worn out. Rubber covers are positioned around the articulation points of the gear system to ensure that it is fluid. These covers work similarly to the cartilage in your joints, so they require to be healthy and flexible.

It's not unusual for them to wear out over time, but there are some things you can do to extend their life. You should avoid the gear selection during extremely cold temperatures. This is because the cables controlling the gear are often prone to freezing and cracking. It is also recommended to replace your bushings, for instance the ones manufactured by First Line, with high-quality ones.

These bushings are a critical part of your gear selector and should not be overlooked. If you find that yours is worn out, it's a great idea to visit an auto shop that is specialized in Land Rover repairs. These experts can help you locate the right parts to repair your gear selector apparatus. They also offer various other services such as maintenance and service for your transmission.

Dead battery

If you turn your key into the ignition but you don't hear anything other than a click, your battery is dead. As batteries age, they undergo natural processes that cause them to die prematurely. This is because the negative plates inside your car battery will start to become coated with sulfate crystals.

A dead battery may also cause your car key repair cost to lose electrical power, which can lead to the radio or electric window becoming unresponsive. If your car has been experiencing problems beginning in cold weather, this is an indication that it is time for an upgrade to your battery.

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

A key fob that is not functioning properly is a common problem for automotive key repair. The key fob is a tiny device that connects to your computer in the vehicle and relays commands and signals between the engine and the accessory systems. The system could become confused or stop communicating with your vehicle when it is exposed extreme temperatures or is wet.

You can usually reset the lost key fob by following the directions in the owner's manual. Depending on the vehicle it will require opening and closing the doors, turning the lights and other electronics on and off or pressing a certain sequence of buttons. If this doesn't fix your fob it may require professional programming that will require the assistance of a technician. It's worth trying these simple methods before you buy a new fob.

Ignition socket

Modern car keys include a transponder chip embedded in them that sends signals to a receiver inside the ignition when it is inserted. This signal informs the immobilizer in the car if the key is the correct one to allow it 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 own a brand new 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 front of the dashboard, door Automotive Key Repair jamb, or in the owner's manual.

Bring your current key fob repair to an AutoZone participating store. An associate will employ a machine which will trace the contours of the blank key in order to precisely duplicate the original key. The new key will be cut on the spot using a precision cutting machine. If your key is blade-style or a key fob or has a hefty black or grey head on it, it'll require programming to your specific vehicle before it can be used to start the engine.